For mom and baby, the 10th week of pregnancy is a special period. At this time, the embryo becomes the fetus. He takes the form of a little man. At the same time, the baby already feels all the emotions of his mother. The pregnant woman should know what features are characterized by 10 weeks. As before, it is important to eliminate all negative factors, ensuring the most comfortable conditions for the crumbs. What size of the fetus at 10 weeks of gestation is considered normal, what changes occur with him and the expectant mother, will be discussed later.
Fetal condition
At 10 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the fetus (ultrasound photo below) increases by 5 times. 190 different types of cells already exist in his body, which by this moment are already fully formed. Further they multiply, allowing the fetus to develop. By this time, the tab of all organs has already been completed. Now they will grow, develop. If no genetic abnormalities have been identified at this stage, they will not threaten the fetus.
At 10 weeks of gestation, the size of the fetus (photo of the ultrasound results presented above) is increasing rapidly. The baby's body length is already 4 cm, and weight 4-5 g. It is comparable in size to strawberries. The baby is in a bent position, he floats freely in amniotic fluid.
The fetus does not yet rest against the walls of the uterus. It is in a bladder filled with amniotic fluid (about 30 ml). The amount of amniotic fluid is determined by ultrasound. Polyhydramnios or low water is a deviation from the norm. The quality and quantity of amniotic fluid affects the development of the child.
The baby already has a placenta, which is responsible for the intake of nutrients in his body. In this case, the corpus luteum in the ovary gradually ceases to produce hormones. The placenta will now produce them.
The baby's heart beats rhythmically and distinctly. The rhythm is well audible with a stethoscope. During this period, the activity of the muscles of the fetus increases. The examination shows that the baby is actively moving the arms and legs. But the future mother does not yet feel the movement. The size of the fetus at this time is still too small. The movements are chaotic, instinctive. They are still quite weak, but on ultrasound they are already clearly visible.
Fetal systems development
Normally, the size of the fetus at 10 weeks of gestation is from 31 to 42 mm. At this stage, the fetal nervous system continues to develop. Connections between motor centers in the brain and nerves in the muscles are being established. For this reason, the arms and legs of the crumbs reflexively move. This happens if the baby, for example, while swimming in amniotic fluid, touches the walls of the uterus. In multiple pregnancies, there is a septum between the twins. But at the same time, they can often push each other, as motor activity increases at this time.
The baby can also turn the head. The spinal cord and brain at this time are already differentiated. The body of the fetus is translucent. The first layer is formed in the cortex of the baby’s brain. The size of the fetus gradually increases at 9-10 weeks of gestation. Development is very fast. Hemispheres of the brain appear.
At this time, the baby begins to move his lips. In his womb, a sucking reflex appears and gradually develops, starting from the 10th obstetric week. The developing nervous system contributes to this.
Knowing what size the fetus is at 10 weeks of gestation, it is worth noting that its head also increases, becoming more rounded. Gradually she rises. The size of the head should correspond to about half the size of the fetus. A child at 10 weeks of gestation already acquires more pronounced facial features. He has superciliary arches, eyelids, a nose is outlined. At this stage of pregnancy, a neck is formed, ears develop. But now they are still low.
Other changes in the fetus
The rapidly increasing size of the fetus at 10-11 weeks of pregnancy allows him to increasingly acquire the usual form of a baby for us. The limbs are now about the same length. They are bent at the elbows and knees. Nails appear on the fingers and toes, and the rudiments of future teeth form in the gums. In addition, receptors are already formed by the end of week 10.
Every day the mass of internal organs increases, and their functions become more perfect. So, the baby's respiratory system is formed. He has a diaphragm. At 10-11 weeks of gestation, the size of the fetus increases so much that tiny kidneys, pancreas, intestines, and liver can already function in his body. The baby swallows amniotic fluid, which is why it accumulates in the bladder.
Assessing the size of the fetus at 10 weeks of gestation by ultrasound, the doctor will not be able to determine the gender of the child. This can be done no earlier than in 2 weeks. If a son is born to the parents, at this time the testes of the child begin to produce testosterone.
At this stage of development, the child already has his own blood type and Rh factor. It is not yet possible to determine the presentation of the fetus. He turns freely, swimming in amniotic fluid, as long as there is enough space for him in the uterus.
The baby already feels touch, vibration, heat, pain or pressure. He reacts to this, as seen on an ultrasound scan. If external factors cause discomfort, the child turns away, withdraws.
What happens to the body of the expectant mother?
At 10 weeks of gestation, the size of the fetus and uterus increases. Although the stomach is still practically invisible. A woman can feel an increase in weight, which is 1-1.5 kg during this period of pregnancy. This is immediately noticeable in things, some of which become small. The size of the uterus at this stage of pregnancy reaches 10-12 cm in height. She moves one level above the pubis.
Due to hormonal changes, hair can begin to grow where it did not exist before. Hyperpigmentation can be observed, so it is worth protecting yourself from the sun. It is not recommended to sunbathe, to be in the sun in the afternoon without a headgear. A dark streak may appear on the stomach. This is the result of increased melanin production. The strip will pass a few months after birth. Acne may appear on the skin due to the active work of the sebaceous glands. Therefore, special attention should be paid to skin care procedures.
Despite the fact that the fetus develops at an accelerated pace at 10-11 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the uterus does not increase so rapidly. However, it can already put pressure on nearby organs. Discomfort in the pelvic bones may be observed. Avoid prolonged sitting or hard seats. However, the load on the hip joints is still not too great. If such painful sensations appear, the body may not have enough calcium.
At this time, the expectant mother may still experience symptoms of toxicosis. She quickly gets tired, poor appetite may be observed. Often, women at this stage of pregnancy complain of severe headaches. However, from that moment on, health will gradually improve. By the end of the third month, the symptoms of toxicosis will gradually disappear.
The chest continues to grow, so you need to take care of special underwear. It should not compress the mammary glands, obstructing blood flow. If there is a slight discomfort in the chest, this is normal. Montgomery nodules may appear on the nipple areoles. This should also not be a concern. This phenomenon is explained by an increase in the size of sweat glands.
The uterus is in good shape
Due to the rapid development of the fetus at 10 weeks of gestation, the size of the abdomen begins to gradually increase. From this time on, it will be more noticeable. The uterus during this period becomes the size of a large apple or orange. She rises, goes beyond the border of the small pelvis. It accumulates liquid, and the walls soften. This is necessary for proper embryo strengthening. The fetus does not stop producing special enzymes that destroy the mucous membrane at the site of its implantation. This is natural erosion, which allows the baby to firmly contact the mother's body.
Due to changes in the body, a woman may feel discomfort in the lower abdomen. This can be explained by a slight tension in the tissues of the uterus, ligaments. This is quite normal, but you should inform your gynecologist about such symptoms. It is necessary to exclude such a negative phenomenon as uterine tone. It complicates the course of pregnancy.
The size of the fetus at 10 obstetric week of pregnancy is constantly increasing, which makes the uterus grow. But it is worth distinguishing the discomfort caused by this natural process from hypertonicity. The latter is a dangerous condition, as it increases the risk of miscarriage. Symptoms of increased uterine tone are:
- The lower abdomen is firm, tense.
- Drawing pains in the lower back.
- Pain in the lower abdomen, in the pubic area.
- Cramping attacks.
This can be caused by nervous or physical stress of a woman, a violation of the hormonal background. After excessively active sexual intercourse, a similar symptom can also be observed. You should contact your supervising gynecologist as soon as possible. A similar condition can also be caused by a short cervix. The risk of developing hypertension increases with multiple pregnancy.
If the pain is accompanied by brownish or bloody discharge, you need to call an ambulance. Immediate hospitalization is required, otherwise the risk of abortion is great. Without medical attention, a miscarriage can occur.
Analyzes
The size of the fetus at 10 weeks of pregnancy is checked using ultrasound. But, in addition to this examination, the doctor will prescribe a comprehensive diagnosis. If a woman has not registered with a gynecologist before, it's time to do it now. Periodically, you need to visit a doctor who will monitor the course of pregnancy.
At the appointment, the doctor measures the size of the pelvis, the height of the bottom of the uterus, as well as pressure and temperature. A pregnant woman is weighed every time a doctor prescribes an appointment. In addition, a general blood and urine test will need to be taken. Additional tests may be prescribed:
- For gestational diabetes. This is a test screen for determining glucose tolerance.
- A blood test for hepatitis B, C.
- TORCH infection test.
- Hemostasiogram.
- Blood chemistry.
In some cases, a genetic examination is necessary. Screening is performed in the first and second trimester.
An ultrasound scan is also required. It can be prescribed between 10-14 weeks. At this time, you can see how the baby bends the arms and legs, moves in an amniotic bladder.
Can be seen on the fingers of the nails, tiny ears and lips. Nerve endings, spine and blood vessels are also visible. The fetus externally has a powerful forehead, which protrudes significantly forward. This is quite normal, as the brain is now developing at a tremendous speed. The fetus at this time is characterized by disproportionality.
An occipital translucency test may be required. This allows you to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, for example, Down syndrome, as well as congenital heart problems.
If a biochemical screening analysis shows a high risk of developing a congenital pathology, a gynecologist will recommend a biopsy of the chorionic villi.
Toxicosis
A constant increase in fetal size at 10 weeks of gestation is accompanied by the production of a large number of hormones. This leads to the appearance of such an unpleasant symptom as toxicosis. It is caused mainly by poor adaptation of the body to intensely produced estrogen and gonadotropin. By about 13-16 weeks, the condition is relieved.
If vomiting occurs with a frequency of 4-5 times a day, this condition is considered non-critical. Often, toxicosis is complicated by heartburn, since the gallbladder in such conditions does not work correctly. If bouts of vomiting occur more often, and the pregnant woman cannot fully eat, the doctor prescribes special treatment. There are various ways to alleviate your condition with toxicosis:
- you only need to eat the food you want;
- food should be at room temperature so that it does not emit a strong smell;
- in the morning on an empty stomach it is recommended to eat slightly salted bread;
- the portions should be small, but you need to eat often;
- food should be non-greasy, able to be easily digested;
- drink a little liquid at a time, in small sips;
- eat lying down; in the morning it is not recommended to get out of bed;
- take vitamin complexes for pregnant women prescribed by a supervising gynecologist;
- tea with ginger or just essential oils with the smell of this plant relieve the condition.
Low water
The size of the fetus at 10 weeks of gestation increases with the amount of amniotic fluid. If it is not enough, a lack of water is diagnosed. This can be detected by ultrasound. Low water occurs in the first trimester.
Such a deviation from the norm leads to insufficient intake of vitamins and nutrients by the fetus. Pathology develops due to high blood pressure, malnutrition. Underdevelopment of the epithelium can also affect this.
If oligohydramnios is moderate, this condition is corrected by changing the diet. Prescribe additional vitamin complexes. This allows you to overcome a similar problem.
Power Features
A healthy diet is extremely important for a pregnant woman and her baby. For a period of 10 weeks, a large number of vitamins, trace elements, other elements are required. Their woman receives with food, so the diet should be balanced.
To avoid heartburn, avoid spicy foods. It is necessary to limit the consumption of fried, spicy dishes. If heartburn does occur, it is recommended to use dairy products.
It is important that the nutrition is balanced, including meat, cereals, vegetables and fruits. It is better to refuse from sweet, starchy foods, or at least reduce the consumption of such products. Extra pounds during pregnancy is easy to gain. Due to hormonal changes, a woman may not want to eat at all. Nutritional addictions are changing. To support the body, vitamin complexes are prescribed.
Vitamins and minerals
On sale are special vitamins for pregnant women, for example, "Elevit." They contain the necessary list of elements required for the pregnant woman and her child. The main ones are:
- Folic acid. He takes part in the creation of DNA and cells. The daily dose is 400-600 mcg.
- Iron. It is necessary for the production of hemoglobin. The minimum daily dose of iron is 30 g.
- Iodine. Supports proper thyroid function. The daily norm is 200 mcg.
- Calcium. The daily dose is 250 mg. It is taken in combination with vitamin D.
This is not a complete list of the elements that the body needs during pregnancy. The doctor prescribes special drugs that can provide the body with everything necessary. But you can not refuse a balanced diet. With food, all the substances necessary for the correct development of the baby's body enter the body.