The third month of pregnancy lasts from 9-13 weeks. The unbelievable feeling of being pregnant is overcome by the mother now. As the news sinks in with surety, it brings on calmness in the mother, though there is still some amount of emotional turmoil going on in her.

The embryo will be technically referred to as fetus from the third month; though for the parents it will be a baby always. The fetus gains length and the external features become distinguished by the end of month 3.

Changes in the baby

The fetus now resembles a human child, though the head is very large, making up half the length of the body. More than any dramatic changes in the fetus, there is essential development of the organs taking place during this month.

  • The head positions on neck.
  • Hair pops up on the head.
  • The eyes are still shut in the beginning of the month, but by the end, they are large and open without eyelids.
  • Teeth buds, toenails, and finger nails begin to take form.
  • Sex organs begin to develop.
  • Ears begin to take shape.
  • The intestines embed inside the abdomen.
  • Tongue develops taste buds.
  • Sucking and swallowing reflexes are seen.
  • The fetus reaches a length of 8 cm and weighs about 45 gm.
  • The kidneys begin to function, producing urine in the fetal bladder.

Changes in the mom to be

The belly doesn’t begin to show yet, but the slight bulge becomes visible when the uterus moves above the pelvis. Though all the discomforts of the second month of pregnancy peak during the third month, the mother can take comfort in the fact that soon she will be entering the honeymoon period of her pregnancy.

  • Placenta is developed inside the uterus to take up hormonal production.
  • Weight gain is oblivious by the end of third month.
  • Extreme tiredness is felt due to hormonal changes.
  • Frequent urination, continuation of morning sickness, breast enlargement and tenderness, mood swings, heartburn, etc. will be all there.
  • Veins and stretch marks start appearing on abdomen, breasts, buttocks and thighs.
  • Changes in hair growth, finger nails, toe nails and skin take place.
  • Pica or craving for unusual food substances will continue.
  • Symptoms resembling PMS may be felt.

Tips for the 3rd month

By the third month, the parents can relax a bit as the chances of miscarriage and other early pregnancy problems are comparatively less. Following some healthy tips is good for both, the baby and the mom.

  • Have calcium enriched diet to help the bones, nails and teeth development taking place in the baby.
  • Include green leafy vegetables, cheese, broccoli, etc. in the daily diet.
  • Wear loose fitting clothes to avoid anxiety over gaining weight.
  • Do not try to control your bladder; there are chances you may fail.
  • Have regular checkups and tests to confirm everything is fine.
  • Take rest and sneak up naps during day.
  • Eating crackers or dry toast and some ginger ale is known to help with the nausea.
  • Abstain from sex in case of pre-term labor, discomfort or other complications.
  • Do not miss on medical checkups and tests.