Second Trimester: Learn about your baby's amazing development!

Congratulations on successfully completing the first stage of your pregnancy and now entering the second stage! For many, the morning sickness and nausea that you experienced have subsided by now. That is why this second stage of pregnancy (months 4, 5 and 6) is often described as a very relaxed and comfortable time. So let's see how amazingly your little one develops during these three precious months.

Fourth month: How a little human is taking shape

The fourth month is a very special month. By now, your baby's fingers and toes are fully developed. Eyelashes, eyebrows, nails, and even hair are starting to grow. Isn't it amazing? Your baby's bones and teeth are getting stronger. Another cute thing is that during this time, your baby can suck his own thumb, curl his body, and even make facial expressions. Imagine, he is doing all these things in his own little world inside your womb.

During this time, the baby's nervous system also begins to function. Since the baby's genitals are fully developed, the doctor will be able to tell whether you are having a girl or a boy with the ``Ultrasound Scan`` that you do when you go to the clinic. Also, you will be able to clearly hear the baby's heartbeat with a small device called ``Doppler``. That will be an experience you will never forget in your life.

By the end of the fourth month, your baby will be about 6 inches long and weigh 4 ounces (about 113 grams) .

Fifth month: Can you feel that little kick too?

The fifth month is a very emotional and joyful month for a mother. Because most of the time, the baby's first movements begin to be felt during this month. We'll talk about that in a bit.

By now, the baby's head hair has started to grow. Also, the baby's shoulders, back, and cheeks are covered with a layer of very fine, soft hair called ``Lanugo.'' This provides the baby with protection. This fine hair falls out within the first week after birth.

Not only that, the baby's skin is covered with a white, thick substance. This is called `(Vernix Caseosa)`. Simply put, this is like a `(lotion)` that is naturally produced by the baby's skin. Since the baby spends a long time in the `(amniotic fluid)` inside the uterus, this coating is there to protect the skin. This too is removed shortly before the baby is born.

By the end of the fifth month, the baby will be about 10 inches long and weigh from half a pound to a pound (225 - 450 grams) .

Sixth month: Time to become sensitive to the outside world

By the sixth month, the baby has grown even bigger. He is now starting to become sensitive to what is happening in the outside world.

By now, your baby's skin is reddish and a little wrinkled. This is because there is no fat under the skin yet. As a result, blood vessels can be seen through your baby's translucent skin. Don't worry, this is completely normal. Even your baby's fingerprints and toes have formed by now. This means that he or she has acquired his or her own unique identity.

During this time, your baby's eyelids will start to close and his eyes will begin to open. Isn't it amazing? Also, to external sounds, for example, when you talk or sing, your baby will react by moving or increasing his heart rate. So this is a great time to bond with your baby. You can talk to your baby, sing songs to him.

Sometimes when your baby hiccups, you may feel a small, steady fluttering sensation in your stomach. These are all signs that your baby is developing healthily.

By the end of the sixth month, the baby is about 12 inches long and weighs about 2 pounds (900 grams) . This growth is so great that, if for some reason, a premature baby is born after 23 weeks, it is possible that he or she may need to be kept alive in an intensive care unit under specialist medical care .

Baby's development month by month at a glance

This second stage is a very important time for you and your baby. As your body changes, your baby grows at an incredible rate. Spend this time happily and relaxed.