Third Month of Pregnancy

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This month is signified by visible changes in the size and mass of the mother. You need to take utmost care of the needs of the growing fetus.

The first trimester reaches its maturity during this month.

Physical development: The physical changes are now not only observed in the mother but in the fetus also:

• Increase in the size of belly is quite visible now.
• The placenta, an organ shared by the mother and the fetus, is fully formed and provides all the nutrition to the child.
• Development of the tongue, salivary glands and taste buds takes place in the baby.
• A fine layer of hairs “lanugo” is also formed.
• The baby’s gender can be estimated now.

Tests you should undergo:

• Ultrasound examination:  if you go for this test you will be able to see your baby. The size of the baby can also be estimated at this stage.
• AFP (Alpha fetoprotein) test is also advisable in this month. This test is optional and you should take enough time to decide whether you want to opt for it or not.
• After twenty weeks the ideal height of the baby should be three centimeters. This measurement may vary from person to person though. . The measurement should be taken by a practitioner every month to keep a check on the growth of the baby.
• A Doppler or doptone is a small ultrasound device with which you can hear fetal heartbeats. During your third month it is possible for you to hear the heartbeats of your baby provided you do not have a tilted uterus.

Some tips for the third month:

• Get some more rest and take naps intermittently.
• Take up an exercise plan according to your body type.
• Wear comfortable clothes which are loosely fitted , for greater comfort.
• Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor or mid-wife.
• Calcium intake should be increased as it is very important for you as well as for the development of limbs and teeth of your baby. Eat pasteurized dairy products.
• Include raw fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Eat whole grain breads and cereals to regularize your bowel movements.
• Do not forget to drink plenty of water.

It is very common to experience mood swings during pregnancy. Keep your calm and pay a lot of attention to your health during the third month. This marks the end of the first trimester.

Related posts:

1. Fifth Month of Pregnancy
2. First Month of Pregnancy
3. Fourth Month of Pregnancy
4. Development of Fetus from 5th to 9th Month
5. Development of Fetus in First Four Months
6. Sixth Month of Pregnancy
7. Sixth Month of Pregnancy
8. Second Month of Pregnancy
9. Changes during Eighth Month of Pregnancy
10. Ninth Month of Pregnancy