Development Calendar

Your Pregnancy Month 3

What's Your Baby Up to This Month?

MONTH 3: 11-14 weeks gestational age

Your Pregnancy Month 3: 11-14 weeks gestational age

He is beginning to develop swallowing movements
He's got developing fingernails, eyelids, genitals, and tooth buds
His umbilical cord will bring him nourishment
His taste buds and inner ears are beginning to develop
He'll be about 3 inches long and weigh about an ounce

An Exciting Month Inside and Out

If you could pay a visit to your womb this month, you might catch your baby smiling or frowning. You'd also know if he was a he or a she. Some of these wonders will be revealed at next month's ultrasound. Others will have to wait until the big day.

But life on the outside is pretty good too these days. You might find yourself with a little more energy and a little less morning sickness. And at this month's checkup, you can enjoy the sound of your baby's strong heartbeat.

The Umbilical Cord: Grow Me a Lifeline

You've probably heard about “cutting the cord” at the birth of your baby. The umbilical cord is literally a lifeline from your body to his. It is fully formed by Month 3, and contains two arteries and one vein. The arteries carry waste away from the baby. The vein supplies nourishment to the baby from the placenta. The nourishment you provide by eating a balanced diet.

Can He Have a Sweet Tooth Before He Has Teeth?

Absolutely. He'll only have tooth buds for months after he's born. But he's already developing taste buds. A lot of his decisions are influenced by the flavors he is experiencing in your prenatal diet.

Healthy Hints: Month 3

Get physical.

Need motivation to get into gear? Active women have easier deliveries. Ask your doctor about exercising safely during pregnancy.

»Some Safe Exercise Techniques