The Development of the Fetus at the End of the Seventh Month of Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of rapid change and development, both for the mother and the fetus. By the end of the seventh month, the fetus has undergone substantial growth and maturation, preparing for birth in just a couple of months. The seventh month marks the beginning of the third trimester, a crucial period when significant physiological and anatomical changes occur to ensure the baby is ready to thrive in the outside world. In this article, we will explore the physical and developmental characteristics of the fetus at the end of the seventh month, how these changes impact the pregnancy experience, and what the mother can expect during this stage.
Key Developmental Milestones at the End of the Seventh Month
1. Size and Weight
By the 28th week of pregnancy, the fetus measures about 15 inches (38 cm) in length, roughly the size of a large eggplant or a small melon. The weight of the fetus at this stage averages between 2 and 2.5 pounds (900 to 1,100 grams). The increase in size and weight during this time is quite significant, as the fetus continues to accumulate fat, which will help regulate its body temperature after birth.
The fetus’s head is still large in proportion to the rest of the body, and the arms and legs have become more proportionate. The development of fat stores under the skin begins to give the fetus a plumper appearance. While there is still some wrinkling on the skin due to the absence of fat, this will begin to smooth out as the baby continues to grow.
2. Brain Development
At this stage, brain development is in full swing. The fetus’s brain has developed to the point where it can process information, respond to stimuli, and even start to regulate basic functions such as breathing and heart rate. The brain is also beginning to form the neural pathways necessary for vision, hearing, and motor skills, although these processes will continue to develop after birth.
The gyri and sulci (the folds and grooves in the brain) are becoming more pronounced, signaling advanced brain maturation. The fetus is capable of responding to external sounds and may even be able to recognize the voices of its parents.
3. Lungs and Respiratory System
The respiratory system of the fetus is undergoing significant development in the seventh month. While the lungs are not yet fully mature, they are now capable of producing surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs expand and contract after birth. This is an important development because it reduces the risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), a condition that can occur in premature babies whose lungs are not fully developed.
At this stage, the fetus may practice breathing movements, which help the muscles in the lungs develop. These movements also help prepare the fetus for life outside the womb, although the baby is still dependent on the placenta for oxygen.
4. Sensory Development
The fetus’s sensory systems are becoming more refined. The auditory system is well-developed, and the fetus can hear sounds from outside the womb, such as the mother’s voice, external noises, and the sounds of the body’s internal functions, like the heartbeat and digestion. The baby’s hearing is aided by the amniotic fluid and the protection of the uterus.
At the end of the seventh month, the fetus’s eyes are fully formed, though they remain shut most of the time. However, they can now respond to light, with the baby reacting to bright light shining on the mother’s abdomen. This visual sensitivity will continue to develop as the baby matures.
5. Movement and Coordination
Movement during the seventh month becomes increasingly pronounced. The fetus has better control over its body and more space to move around in the uterus, although space is starting to become more limited as the baby grows. The fetus will engage in more purposeful movements such as kicking, stretching, and turning, and these movements can be felt more intensely by the mother.
The coordination between the arms, legs, and hands improves, and the baby may even grasp its umbilical cord or other parts of the body. These movements are a sign of developing muscle tone and coordination, which will be important for motor skills after birth.
Physical Changes in the Mother
1. Increasing Uterine Size
By the seventh month, the uterus has expanded significantly to accommodate the growing fetus. The size of the uterus is now approximately at the level of the mother’s rib cage, and the pressure on the internal organs increases. This can cause discomfort, including heartburn, frequent urination, and shortness of breath. The baby’s position, which may shift from transverse to head-down, can also influence how the mother feels and moves.
2. Back and Pelvic Pain
The mother may begin to experience more frequent backaches as the body adjusts to the growing weight of the fetus. The ligaments in the lower back and pelvis continue to stretch in preparation for labor, which can cause pain or discomfort. As the pregnancy progresses, these aches and pains may become more pronounced, especially during periods of rest or when changing positions.
3. Increased Fatigue
Fatigue remains a prominent issue during the third trimester. The growing baby places additional demands on the mother’s body, requiring more energy for daily tasks. This can lead to increased tiredness and the need for more frequent rest. Sleep may become more disrupted as the baby moves during the night or the mother struggles to find a comfortable sleeping position.
4. Skin Changes
The skin of the abdomen continues to stretch as the uterus grows. This can lead to the development of stretch marks, especially if the mother’s skin has not adapted to the changes in size. Some women also experience darkening of the skin around the nipples, the linea nigra (a dark line running down the abdomen), and other hyperpigmentation.
5. Breast Changes
During the seventh month, the breasts continue to grow and prepare for lactation. The mammary glands are becoming more active, and colostrum (the first milk) may begin to leak from the nipples. This is a normal sign of preparation for breastfeeding.
Potential Complications and Concerns
Although the end of the seventh month marks a period of significant development, there are still risks for both mother and baby that should not be overlooked. One potential concern is preterm labor, which can lead to premature birth. Babies born before 37 weeks gestation may face complications due to their underdeveloped organs, including breathing difficulties, feeding challenges, and an increased risk of infections.
It is also important for expectant mothers to be vigilant about signs of high blood pressure, such as swelling in the hands and face, which can indicate preeclampsia, a condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Preterm Birth
At the end of the seventh month, the fetus is generally considered viable, meaning that it has a good chance of survival outside the womb, though it may need medical support such as a ventilator or incubator if born prematurely. With advances in neonatal care, babies born as early as 28 weeks can survive with a lower risk of long-term complications. However, the earlier the birth, the higher the chance of complications.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is another condition that can develop during the second or third trimester. This condition can affect the mother’s ability to regulate blood sugar, leading to higher than normal glucose levels. If left untreated, gestational diabetes can result in excessive fetal growth, preterm birth, or birth complications such as shoulder dystocia. Regular prenatal checkups and monitoring of blood sugar levels can help manage the condition.
Preparing for the Final Trimester
As the third trimester begins, expectant mothers may start to think about the upcoming birth and the preparations needed for the baby’s arrival. The seventh month is an excellent time to begin organizing the nursery, buying necessary baby supplies, and making plans for labor and delivery. It is also an ideal time to begin taking childbirth education classes and discussing a birth plan with healthcare providers.
Furthermore, regular prenatal visits will become more frequent during the third trimester. These visits help monitor both maternal and fetal health, including checking the baby’s position, monitoring weight gain, and screening for conditions like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Conclusion
The end of the seventh month of pregnancy is a significant milestone for both mother and baby. The fetus has grown substantially, gaining weight, developing essential organs, and preparing for life outside the womb. While the mother may experience physical discomforts, these are signs that the body is preparing for labor. Understanding fetal development at this stage can help parents feel more confident as they approach the final trimester of pregnancy, and can also serve as a guide to understanding the changes that will occur in the coming weeks. It’s essential to maintain open communication with healthcare providers to address any concerns or complications that may arise, ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a smooth transition to parenthood.