Week 14

What Is Happening To Your Body

During this week of pregnancy, the hormonal changes in your body are becoming more apparent. In addition to the linea nigra (the dark line from your abdomen to your pubic bone), the areola (dark part of your nipple area) may have gotten darker and larger. This is normal as your body readies itself for your baby and breastfeeding.

What Is Happening To Your Baby

Your baby measures about 3.5 to 4 inches (8.9 to 10.2 cm) long from crown to rump, or roughly the length of a lemon. At this point your baby weighs about 1 ounce (28.4 grams).

The baby has also started secreting hormones of its own from its matured thyroid gland.

Its body systems are also starting to work on their own. The digestive system is practicing moving food through the intestines while the renal system is creating and eliminating urine.

Your baby also continues to practice breathing the amniotic fluid through its lungs. In addition, he or she has developed soft nails on its fingers and toes. Your baby’s blood is also starting to form in its bone marrow and blood vessels. Its hands continue to develop as well and are becoming more functional.

As the eyes and ears continue to move into place, the baby’s mouth has gone through major development. The sucking muscles are growing strong and the salivary glands are almost fully developed. The esophagus, windpipe and larynx should all be present by the end of this week.

 What Is Happening This Week?

Ultrasound images courtesy of GE Healthcare

The clinical images and information presented in this application represent normal fetal growth during a typical pregnancy.  The images and information are to be used for educational purposes only  and not for diagnostic purposes.  Please consult a licensed physician regarding any specific questions pertaining to your pregnancy.