Prenatal Development

Second Trimester

Week 14: The fetus now weighs around an ounce and is 3 inches long. Toenails, fingernails & eyelids are forming as are also the sex organs & muscles. The child may kick or even do somersaults.

Week 15: The fetus's skin begins to form and is practically transparent at first. The bones that make up its skeletal system are beginning to develop.

Week 18: The fetus is now about 5 inches long with hair growing on the head & body. The developing child can move its mouth, swallow, blink, and even grasp with its fingers. The fetus can hear your heart beating or your stomach rumbling. The child may also be startled by loud noises.

Week 20: The fetus is now about 6 inches long (halfway to completion) and weighs about 9 ounces. The baby now has well developed limbs, hair on the scalp, and thin eyebrows.

Week 22: The fetus is now 10 inches long and about 1 lb. Its skin is beginning to appear colored and sweat glands are developing. Taste buds are developing and the brain & nerve endings may experience the sensation of touch. Your baby may experiment by feeling anything within its reach.

Week 26: The baby weighs between 1 1/2 and 2 pounds. Its eyes are now fully formed but may not open for another two weeks. It can now cry as well as inhale & exhale. The tongue has taste buds.

Week 27: With intensive medical care, the fetus has a 85% chance of successfully living outside the womb (though serious complications may occur). The baby's lungs, immune system & liver continue to mature.

• Prenatal Development - First Trimester
• Prenatal Development - Second Trimester
• Prenatal Development - Third Trimester