Week 13-16

Week 13

The baby: the baby is now approximately 2. 6 to 3. 1 inches long and weighs 0. 5 - 0. 7 ounces. Between now and the 24th week fetal growth is rapid. The head, which has been larger in proportion to the rest of the body, slows in growth while the rest of the body catches up. The baby's face begins to take greater shape as the eyes move closer together and the ears migrate to towards their correct position on the side of the head. The external genitalia are now clearly defined, as are the fingers and toes. The intestine which originally developed outside of the body withdraws into the baby's abdominal cavity.

The mother: the mother's weight gain is quite noticeable now unless morning sickness has been unusually harsh and prevented the mother from eating much.

Week 14

The baby: the baby is now between 3. 2 and 4. 1 inches long and weighs approximately 1 ounce. His neck continues to grow and the chin elevates from its resting position of the chest. The face gains greater definition as the eyes and ears continue to migrate, and the baby's fingerprints are now unique.

The mother: It is unlikely that at this stage maternity clothes are a must for the mother as she is not yet showing. Skin and muscles begin to stretch to accommodate the growing uterus. Various changes in hormones are likely to make constipation a more common occurrence and can be combated with exercise and plenty of water.

Week 15

The baby: the baby is now between 4. 1 and 4. 5 inches long and weighs approximately 1. 75 ounces. His skin begins to thicken and fine hairs called lanugo hairs start to grow on his body. The eyes and ears continue their migration and development, and the bones of the baby ossify (harden). Ultrasounds may reveal the baby is beginning to suck his thumb.

The mother: the mother's uterus becomes prominent about three inches under her bellybutton and its round shape can be felt.

Week 16

The baby: the baby now measures between 4. 3 and 4. 6 inches long and weighs 2. 8 ounces. His head is likely covered in hair and the umbilical attachment has moved lower on his abdomen. The legs should also now be longer than the arms and the movement of both appendages may be felt. The nervous system is now fully functioning and the baby's body responds to his brain.

The mother: the mother's uterus continues to grow with the baby and the 'quickening' process begins in which the baby moves more often and may be felt. The increased volume of blood in the mother's body at this point may have some interesting effects including nose bleeds and greater visibility of veins. This is normal and unless nose bleeds are heavy and regular she should not worry.

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