Breathe with me!

You’re living your normal life (well, almost normal, except for the fact that it is harder for you to tie your shoelaces), and great changes are taking place inside of you. The lungs of the baby are preparing for independent breathing — blood vessels develop inside them this week and a surfactant continues to form (a special substance that prevents the lungs from sticking together while inhaling and exhaling).

The baby’s nostrils are also preparing to inhale their first breath of fresh air — they open and start working; now your child is working on breathing exercises. Of course, since there is no air in the uterus, your baby "breathes" with amniotic fluid. And, by the way, she can smell the different substances that go there.

Your little eggplant (yes, your baby is now that size) has grown even more hair, and the color and texture are already visible. The facial features are formed, and while the ears are still very soft, the cartilage will get stronger by the time your child is born.

The bones of the fetus become denser as calcium is deposited in them. But in order for bones to form properly, they must also be elastic. And therefore, organic compounds that provide these qualities are also very necessary for the development of the baby.

Even this week, your child started getting startled! It is ridiculous, but even your hiccups can scare her. She will freeze and will listen in horror to what is happening. So once again, do not frighten the little one, try not to shout, try not to hiccup (we know that’s not really possible…), and generally behave as calmly as possible.

By the way, your baby can now dream, just like you! Scientists have recorded fetal brain activity at this stage that corresponds to the phase of rapid (REM) sleep. The baby sleeps often and deeply, but can you even imagine what she dreams about? Hopefully not your hiccups ?

Measuring the baby:
Height:
Crown to rump: 8.7 in (22 cm)
Crown to heels: 13.6 in (34.6 cm)
Weight 1.54 lbs. (700 g)