I'm a Fetus! Starting with this week, the baby is now called a fetus. The most critical part of the baby's development is over. This is a period of rapid growth, and the baby is about an inch or so in length at the beginning of the week and will be about 2 inches by the end of the week. The baby's head is about half its length. The eyelids will fuse shut, and the irises will begin to develop. Sometime during this week or the next week, blood will begin to circulate between the baby and uterus and the placenta starts to function.

Your uterus is the size of a small grapefruit already! You may find that your appetite is better as your nausea subsides even though certain smells may bother you. Multiples: Morning sickness is probably still bothersome with nausea alternating between having a ravenous appetite.

Prenatal Testing:

You may have already discussed prenatal testing with your caregiver, and you've probably had a few of the tests done. Learn as much as you can about these tests ~ many can alleviate your fears about the health and well-being of your baby; some may cause more stress than they're worth. Do your homework on prenatal diagnostic testing and remember that you do NOT have to have any test you don't want.

Ideas for Dad:

Is this whole pregnancy business getting to you? The highs and lows, the endless worries about finances and responsibilities, seeing mom puking her guts out day after day? Dad, you need a break. Be good to yourself and take a few hours off to play a round of golf, workout at the gym or do something with your buddies. When you come home, surprise mom with a single long stem red rose and a little note that says, "Thanks Honey. I love you."

Inspirational Thoughts:

God could not be everywhere, and therefore He created mothers. ~Jewish Proverb

Reading:

The ABC's of Prenatal Diagnosis by Keith and Laurie Wexler, published by Genassist Inc, 2002.