Baby reflexes get more precise
Your baby can now move their arms and legs, grimace, suck on a finger, frown, swallow, get the hiccups, open their mouth, blink, and plays with the umbilical cord [1]. You may have noticed or will notice soon, that the baby’s movements become more pronounced if someone is talking loudly next to you or if loud music is playing.
The baby’s digestive system continues to improve. In the intestine, meconium is now present. Meconium is the baby’s first feces, consisting of cells from the digestive tract, bile, and dead epithelial cells that line the mucous membrane of internal organs [2].
Subcutaneous fatty tissue continues to form. It will gradually help fill out the baby’s skin, smoothing wrinkles and softening its bright red color. Subcutaneous fat is deposited primarily around the neck, chest, and kidneys. Outside, the skin is still covered with a layer of primordial grease that protects it from irritation and helps retain heat.
If you are expecting twins
Your babies are now about the size of large cucumbers. They move quite actively and play with the umbilical cord. If they have a common fetal sac, then there is a high risk that the umbilical cords will intertwine. Therefore, mothers of identical twins often have to go in for additional ultrasounds [3]. If each twin has their own fetal sac, then there are no additional risks at this time.
What can be seen on ultrasound
The baby is lying with their back to the screen, which makes it possible to see the left shoulder, armpit, forearm, elbow, and wrist. The neck is easier to see, around which subcutaneous fat is gradually being deposited.
