What is Expected Fetal Growth?
Fetal growth can vary from baby to baby. It is important to remember that the expected fetal growth is an outline of the average growth of a healthy fetus. The external growth of a fetus may be effected not only by the genes of its parents, but by chromosomal abnormalities and other factors. Lack of significant external growth does not directly reflect the growth of organs and how well they function.
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One Month
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By the end of the first month the fetus is approximately ¼ inch long. The spinal cord and heart have begun to form and the heart will begin pumping blood through the body within the next two weeks.
Three Months
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At three months gestation the fetus is nearly three inches long and weighs roughly one ounce. Limbs have been formed and all fingers and toes are developed. By three months your doctor is able to detect the fetal heartbeat with a Doppler.
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Five Months
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The fetus is about ten inches long and weighs about one pound. The eyelids are now present along with eyebrows and eyelashes and hair is growing on the baby's head.
Seven Months
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At seven months the baby has grown to about 15 inches long and is near three pounds. The skin is still wrinkled, but the baby is beginning to store fat. The organs are becoming well developed during this stage; though the lungs are not mature enough to ensure that the baby could breathe on his or her own at this time.
Nine Months
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At the beginning of the ninth month the baby is more than 19 inches long and is around 7 pounds. The organs are fully developed and the baby's lungs are strong enough to breathe for the baby on their own. The baby is ready for delivery.
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