third month of pregnancy

What happens to mother and child during pregnancy 3rd month?

Pregnancy is a period that brings about new challenges especially to new mothers. Changes in habits and body size are among the most noticeable for the mother. Characterized by different stages, the period requires understanding and observation of essential measures to ensure the baby develops fully while the mother maintains her health. Pregnancy 3rd month marks an important stage in the process. Substantial growth and development of the baby is noted alongside a reduction in illnesses associated with first months of pregnancy. Here are some basic occurrences during this period.

Changes by the mother on the 3rd month

Starting during the 9th week, there are a number of changes that occur to mothers during the third month of pregnancy. During the period the size of the features grows tremendously from a mere 4 cm to an average of 12 cm. this causes enlargement of the womb that essentially leads to the exertion of pressure on the bladder. This leads to frequent and urgent need to urinate owing to the fact that the bladder can only hold a limited amount of urine for long. There is also a reduction in symptoms that were prevalent during the early days of pregnancy including nausea, morning sickness, and vomiting. This however may vary between mothers. At this stage, chances of a miscarriage are also reduced significantly raising hopes of carrying the baby to full development. While pregnancy will not be noticeable by the start of the 3rd month, by the end of the 4th week, the resulting development of the fetus leads to gradual enlargement of the tummy and the mother might feel the need to wear more loose outfits for comfort.

Changes to the baby on the 3rd month

During pregnancy 3rd month, great changes occur to the baby. This is initialized from development from an embryo to a fetus. Measuring only 4 cm at the start of the 3rd month, the fetus grows to approximately 12 cm by the 4th week of the month. During the period, this comes alongside an increase in weight where the baby may attain up to 90 pounds by the end of the period. It is during this period that the baby’s features are better defined with the face and limbs becoming more visible. The baby’s movements can also be felt starting from the 3rd month, an ultrasound scan gives a detailed result of the baby’s status.

Precautions during this period

For better health of the mother and child, there are certain precautions that must be observed during this period. They include:

  • Always ensuring the mother feeds on a proper diet. This should be rich in fiber and proteins to provide the required resources for the baby’s development. Iron and folic acid should also be considered as essential supplements to the diet
  • The mother should take adequate rest during this period. With numerous changes occurring to the body, changes in blood circulation are prevalent and may lead to instances of dizziness and fatigue if not controlled
  • The mother also needs to quit some bad habits. Alcohol intake and smoking are among common habits that need to be put aside. This comes alongside desisting from bad eating habits hence enhance better health for the growing baby
  • Observing hygiene is paramount. During the pregnancy 3rd month, hormonal change may result in vaginal bleeding among other effects. If hygiene is not observed, chances of infections increase