The second month of pregnancy brings new challenges and new joys!
You may not feel like you’re pregnant yet, but your body is going through a lot of changes. The uterus is expanding, and the cervix is softening in preparation for labour. The breasts are growing larger and may be tender. These are all normal and are a sign that your body is adjusting to the pregnancy. Even with all this evidence you are pregnant, you are probably still getting used to the idea that a new life is developing inside you. It’s a wild ride, and it is only just the beginning. Hold on tight!
What happens to your baby week by week
Week 5
Your little embryo is growing rapidly and is now about the size of an orange seed. This week, the heart is starting to take shape and the circulatory system is the first to become operational. Your baby’s heart is made up of two tiny channels called heat tubes, and though it is still far from fully functional, it’s already beating. You might be able to see this on an early ultrasound.
Week 6
This week, your baby’s jaws, cheeks, and chin will start to develop. indentations on both sides of the head will eventually turn into ear canals. The small black dots on the face will become the eyes, and the small bump on the front of the head will turn into a button nose, just a few weeks from now!
The primitive beginnings of the digestive and respiratory systems are also forming. All of the major organs and body systems are in place, although they are immature and will continue to develop throughout your pregnancy. Your baby’s brain and spinal cord continue to develop and their tiny little limbs will begin to grow. You may not feel any movement yet, but your baby is constantly growing and changing every day!
Week 7
You are doing an amazing job! Your baby is now 10,000 times bigger than it was at conception, about the size of a blueberry. Most of that growth is concentrated in the head, because new brain cells are being generated at the rate of 100 cells per minute. The baby’s mouth and tongue are also forming. Arms and legs are developing, and small buds for hands and feet are visible. The kidneys are beginning to function, and the liver and pancreas are developing.Â
Week 8
Your baby is growing so quickly, this week measuring just over a centimetre in length, or about the size of a large raspberry. They’re looking more and more human as the lips, nose, eyelids, legs and back continue to take shape. The skin is still thin and translucent, and you may be able to see the outline of the baby’s body through it. The bones are beginning to harden, and the skeletal system is taking shape.
It’s incredible to think about how much they’ll grow and change in the coming weeks and months!
What YOU may be feeling
As always, remember that every pregnancy and every woman is different. Some women may feel great during the second month, while others may feel more tired and emotional. The important thing is to listen to your body and do what feels right for you.
Physically
- Increased fatigue, lack of energy, sleepiness, occasional faintness or dizziness.
- Frequency of urination.
- Heartburn, flatulence, bloating.
- Abdominals may feel tighter.
- Spider or varicose veins appearing.
Emotionally
- A sense of unreality about the pregnancy.
- Misgivings, fear, joy, elation (any or all of these)
What to expect during your second month check-up
Your second month’s checkup is an important appointment to help monitor your pregnancy and baby’s development. Your practitioner will probably spend more time talking to you about how your pregnancy is progressing and how you’re feeling emotionally and physically. They’ll also spend time answering any questions that you might have.
Your practitioner will probably check your weight, blood pressure and urine, and feel your abdomen to check the size and position of your uterus. They will probably talk to you about your diet and nutrition during pregnancy and listen to your baby’s heartbeat!
This is a great opportunity to ask your provider any questions you may have about pregnancy and your baby’s development. This appointment is also a good time to start thinking about your birth plan and to start discussing your options with your practitioner.
Tips for your second month of pregnancy
If you’re feeling more tired than usual, it’s important to get plenty of rest. Try to take naps whenever you can, and go to bed early if possible.
Drink plenty of fluids and eat a healthy diet to help keep your energy levels up.
If you’re feeling moody or emotional, it’s also important to talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling. This can help you to process your emotions and feel more supported.
Remember that every woman experiences pregnancy differently, so there is no “right” way to feel during the second month.
And remember! You are the best person to know what is right for you and your baby. Keep up the good work!
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