Mommy/Daddy BLOG* day2

The Development of Your Baby from 4 - 8 Weeks Gestation.

Week 5: The embryonic period begins

The fifth week of pregnancy, or the third week after conception, marks the beginning of the embryonic period. This is when the baby's brain, spinal cord, heart and other organs begin to form.

The embryo is now made of three layers. The top layer — the ectoderm — will give rise to your baby's outermost layer of skin, central and peripheral nervous systems, eyes, inner ear, and many connective tissues.

Your baby's heart and a primitive circulatory system will form in the middle layer of cells — the mesoderm. This layer of cells will also serve as the foundation for your baby's bones, muscles, kidneys and much of the reproductive system. The inner layer of cells — the endoderm — will become a simple tube lined with mucous membranes. Your baby's lungs, intestines and bladder will develop here.

By the end of this week, your baby is likely between 1/16 and 1/8 inch (1.5 to 3 millimeters) long — about the size of the tip of a pen.

Week 6: The neural tube closes

Growth is rapid this week. Just four weeks after conception, the neural tube along your baby's back is closing and your baby's heart is pumping blood. Basic facial features will begin to appear, including passageways that will make up the inner ear and arches that will contribute to the jaw. Your baby's body begins to take on a c-shaped curvature. Small buds will soon become arms and legs. By the end of this week, your baby may be 1/6 to 1/4 inch (4 to 6 millimeters) long.

Week 7: Baby's head develops

Seven weeks into your pregnancy, or five weeks after conception, your baby's brain and face are rapidly developing. Tiny nostrils become visible, and the eye lenses begin to form. The arm buds that sprouted last week now take on the shape of paddles.

By the end of this week your baby may be 1/4 to 1/3 inch (7 to 9 millimeters) long — a little bigger than the top of a pencil eraser.

Week 8: Movement begins

Eight weeks into your pregnancy, or six weeks after conception, your baby's arms and legs are growing longer, and fingers have begun to form. The shell-shaped parts of your baby's ears also are forming, and your baby's eyes and nipples are visible. The upper lip and nose have formed. The trunk of your baby's body is beginning to straighten.

Your baby may begin to move this week, but you won't be able to feel it yet.

By the end of this week, your baby may be about 1/2 inch (11 to 14 millimeters) long.

How is Mom's Body Changing?

At 9 weeks pregnant, your body continues to change to protect and nourish your developing baby. That means that pregnancy symptoms still might be in full force. Take a look at some of the changes happening during your 9th week of pregnancy:

• Hormone production increases
• Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, breast soreness, increased urination, insomnia, and vivid dreaming.
• Your heart pumps harder and faster, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and headaches.
• Increased estrogen and progesterone stimulate the growth of your breasts and milk glands. The skin around your nipples may enlarge and darken. Breast soreness and fullness is normal.
• Your body shape begins to change, which also can cause you to change how you feel about your body. Remember that body changes and healthy weight gain are important but temporary aspects of pregnancy. Take the steps you need to maintain a positive body image by exercising and eating well. Wear comfortable clothes that make you feel and look good. Don't worry if you are not showing just yet — it might take a few more weeks.

What are Your Chances of having Multiples?

• chance of having conjoined twins: 1 in 50-80,000
• chance of having 'natural' triplets: 1 in 8,100 (only about 30% of triplets are 'natural')
• chance of having 'natural' quads: 1 in 729,000 (only about 6% of quads are 'natural')
• chance of having 'natural' quints: 1 in 55,000,000 m

                                                             ^ http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/twins/twin_statistics.html

 Doctors or Midwifes?

Obstetricians are by far the most common choice in the United States, although certified nurse-midwives are becoming more popular. Some women choose practices that have both ob-gyns and midwives. And others opt for a family physician. (Not all family physicians continue to do obstetrics after their training, though, so you'll have to ask.) The most important thing is to choose someone you feel completely comfortable with, who's appropriate for your individual needs, who'll respect your wishes, and who practices in the right setting for you.

Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

1. Eat five or six well-balanced meals each day.
2. Take a prenatal vitamin each day as directed by your obstetrician.
3. Drink plenty of fluids, at least eight to ten glasses a day, avoiding caffeine and artificial coloring.
4. Don't drink alcohol.
5. Don't smoke or allow yourself to be exposed to second-hand smoke.
6. Exercise--it's important for your general health, and also to reduce stress. Take a pregnancy exercise class or walk at least 15 to 20 minutes every day at a moderate pace. Walk in cool, shaded areas or indoors in order to prevent overheating.
7. Get A lot of sleep--at least eight hours a night. If you're suffering from sleep disturbances, take naps during the day and see your physician for advice.
8. Wear comfortable, non-restricting shoes and put your feet up several times a day to prevent fatigue and swelling of the feet, legs, and ankles.
9. Continue to wear a safety belt while riding in motor vehicles.
10. Don't take over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies without first consulting your obstetrician.