Three Trimesters of Pregnancy

First Trimester

Development of all tissues, organs, and organ systems begin.

Very vulnerable to the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and other environmental influences.

Third Trimester

The fetus continues to grow at a rapid rate.

Fat accumulates under the skin to provide insulation for the fetus once it is born.

2 weeks:

Second Trimester

-Around 18 to 20 weeks

A lack of certain essential nutrients cause irreversible damage to the developing embryo.

-Capable of sucking its thumb

New nerve cells in the brain are forming at a rate of 250,000 cells per minute.

-Heartbeat might be heard using a stethoscope

8 Weeks:

The fetus now might respond to sounds in the environment, such as music or the sound of its mother’s voice.

-Can develop the hiccups

Mother might not realize that she is pregnant because she has not yet missed a menstrual period.

-The mother might feel light kicks

Embryo is called a fetus

All of the organ systems have begun to form.

Fetus can move its arms, fingers, and toes and make facial expressions. Fingerprints also are present.

-Hair forms

Sara Alrassi

-Embryo eyes will open during this period

Maha Alassaf

Protein intake by the mother is important during this time. Protein is essential for the rapid amount of brain growth that occurs.

Dalal

-Lungs have not developed fully

-Immune system is not fully functional