Sixth month of pregnancy: what happens and how to deal with swelling, heartburn and other problems. Nutrition during pregnancy, sixth month 6 months of pregnancy

Many women often ask 6 months - how many weeks is it approximately?

Independently Sexual intercourse to the doctor
due to violation for control Recommended

6th month of pregnancy - 26th week of pregnancy, since the obstetric month consists of 4 weeks. At this stage, the fetus is actively developing.

What is the woman experiencing?

At this stage, cramps occur in the leg muscles. Massage, as well as simple physical exercises, help relieve symptoms. They are performed before bedtime. If you experience back pain, you need to change your position, rest or take a warm bath.
Frequent urge to urinate, especially with sudden movements. It is forbidden to endure for a long time and not defecate.
Predisposition to hemorrhoids. For prevention, it is recommended to frequently change body position, take straight postures, and fight constipation. Kegel exercises, which help strengthen the pelvic muscles, will help you avoid discomfort.
There is a risk of varicose veins. Medical assistance required. As a preventive measure, rest, light exercise, and walks are recommended.
There is often a feeling of weakness and dizziness.
Bleeding gums.
Increased sweating. To avoid dehydration, drinking plenty of fluids is recommended.
Itching due to stretching of the skin. It is forbidden to scratch your stomach, as there is a high risk of stretch marks.
Pigment spots and rashes appear on the face, which disappear after pregnancy.
At 6 months of pregnancy, your appetite increases. To avoid constipation and heartburn, it is recommended to follow healthy eating rules. You need to eat food in small quantities 5-6 times a day. Thus, the woman does not feel hungry, and there is no heaviness in the stomach.
The breasts are filled and enlarged.
Edema formation. You can avoid discomfort by giving up salt. In hot weather, your hands and face swell.
Emotional swings. Emotional outbursts are quickly replaced by fatigue and absent-mindedness. Anxiety and fear arise.

You can see a photo of what a woman looks like at 6 months pregnant in our article.

What is not recommended	What is recommended
Overeating, eating foods that promote bloating. Bloating leads to increased heart rate, which has serious consequences.	Compliance with the diet. The menu should consist of vegetable salads. Porridge, cottage cheese, and fermented milk products are healthy. The diet should include boiled meat and fish. You can eat as much as you want, but all foods must be healthy.
Refusal of coffee, strong tea, alcohol, carbonated drinks, flour products, unhealthy snacks, strong spices.	Fluid control. Fluid retention should be checked periodically. Fluid excretion is 200-300 ml less than fluid consumed. A large loss occurs due to profuse sweating and breathing. If very little urine is released, this is a signal of the onset of edema and toxicosis. You should consult a doctor immediately.
Stress, nervousness, hysterics, experiences during childbirth.	Blood pressure control. Pregnant women become nervous about almost everything. The visit to the doctor itself becomes a reason for increased blood pressure. Both an increase and a decrease in pressure may occur. With low blood pressure, blood flows poorly into the placenta. After this, the child loses nutrients.
Heavy physical labor, intense gym sessions, lifting heavy objects.	Compliance with the regime. A woman should definitely rest a lot. A tired pregnant woman is a fetus hungry for nutrients and oxygen.

Baby development at 6 months

At 6 months of pregnancy, the fetus is actively developing. Among the changes are the following.

Fruit weight – 300 grams. Every day he gains 10 grams.
Body length more than 25 cm.
Subcutaneous fat is formed.
Nails are practically formed, joints and bones are strengthened.
The face is well defined. Eyelashes and eyebrows appear.
A passive immune system is formed.
Original feces are formed.
The cerebellum, the middle part of the brain, is formed.
The baby sleeps and dreams. While awake, hears sounds in the mother's body and the environment.
The liver, kidneys, and digestive system begin to function. The process of blood formation is activated.
The fetus makes its first breathing movements.

Independently determining the month of gestation can cause difficulties due to individual characteristics

How to determine the month yourself?

The 6th month of pregnancy is characterized by characteristic symptoms and discomfort. Some of them can cause a lot of trouble, such as dark discharge. The sixth month can be determined by the following signs.

Increased salivation.
Fast fatiguability.
Frequent urination.
Sudden change of mood.
Morning vomiting (not all women).
Discomfort and abdominal pain.
Muscle flaccidity.

Pregnancy is a highly individual process. Symptoms may come and go.

Continuation of sexual activity

Sexual intercourse is possible if there is no discomfort, pain, or contraindications

A woman gains a lot of weight, and, accordingly, gets tired faster. During the 6th month of pregnancy, the belly becomes large and interferes with intimate life. Many women are interested in whether it is possible to have sex at 6 months of pregnancy.

In most cases, sex does not harm, and even becomes useful to a pregnant woman. It is forbidden to exercise only if there is a threat of miscarriage or early pathologies. Sexual life should be moderate and also careful. A woman should visit a doctor regularly.

Partners choose positions that are comfortable for the woman. In addition, every sexual act must be protected. Male sperm has a relaxing effect on the uterus. As a result, there is a risk of premature birth.

If pain or severe discomfort occurs, sexual intercourse should be stopped immediately.

Abdominal pain during this period

Pain and discomfort in the 6th month of pregnancy are associated with fetal activity. The woman feels short-term weak contractions, as well as tension in the uterus. This condition is not very dangerous for either the mother or the child. The frequency of contractions is 10-15 times during the day. If contractions are regular, you should consult a doctor.

If you have constant and continuous pain, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Pain occurs in the back and lower abdomen. Discomfort is caused by muscle tension and contractions, as well as softening of the spinal discs. In addition, swelling, numbness and burning of the sour hands occurs. The pain is intense when clenching your fingers into a fist. Light massage relieves symptoms.

Due to rapid weight gain, swelling and cramping of the ankles occurs. It is recommended to rest, wear comfortable shoes, and use elastic bandages.

Pregnancy during the 6th month occurs without toxicosis. Only some women experience abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. This month is characterized by increased appetite. However, you should not give in to hormones. Intensive nutrition leads to a sharp jump in weight, which adversely affects the health of the woman and the fetus.

Sudden appearance of discharge

The genitals regularly secrete mucus. During the 6th month of pregnancy, vaginal secretion increases, after which the discharge becomes viscous and increases in volume.

Many women experience hormonal imbalance, which leads to termination of pregnancy. If you notice unpleasant-smelling discharge in large quantities, you should consult a doctor.

A characteristic phenomenon for the sixth month may be an increase in discharge due to hormonal imbalance

If during the 6th month of pregnancy the discharge changes color, this indicates the presence of a sexually transmitted or fungal infection. The discharge can be profuse, white, gray, accompanied by an unpleasant sour odor and thick structure. Bacteria can interact with each other and contribute to the development of candidiasis. Then it is forbidden to carry out independent treatment, which is ineffective. Only a doctor, after conducting tests, prescribes an effective treatment method.

Sexual and fungal infections increase the risk of premature birth. Treatment must be carried out from the first symptoms of manifestation.

Itching and burning may indicate an allergy caused by underwear and personal hygiene products. The discomfort goes away after the irritant is eliminated.

Bloody or brown discharge is a dangerous sign. If detected, you must immediately consult a doctor. This applies to cases where there is dark or light red blood in the discharge, and there is also severe pain in the lower abdomen. Fortunately, this phenomenon rarely occurs. Approximately 80% of miscarriages occur within the first 12 weeks.

Bleeding can be caused by previously untreated erosions. There is no threat to the life of the mother and fetus, so treatment is postponed until later in pregnancy.

Any bleeding that occurs at week 29 is considered prenatal. In all of the above cases, consultation with a doctor is necessary.

Ultrasound is prescribed to monitor the development of the baby, its internal organs, head, face

The doctor prescribes an ultrasound at the 6th month of pregnancy between 22-24 weeks. The main task is to find out what is happening to the fetus at 6 months of pregnancy, to identify deviations from developmental norms. The doctor also determines the structure of the internal organs. The image clearly identifies the anatomical structure of all organs. First of all, the presence of pathologies of the central nervous system is determined. An assessment of the development of the head and face is checked.

The heart rate and the location of the main vessels are carefully monitored. Diagnosing the heart is very important. Most heart defects are detected during fetal development. 6 months is the optimal time to determine the condition of the fetus.

Important are the size of the baby, his torso, head, deviations in the ratio of parameters from established standards. If you wish, you can get photos and videos at 6 months of pregnancy.

Proper nutrition makes pregnancy much easier and guarantees the birth of a healthy baby. With the onset of pregnancy, alcohol, smoking, and drugs are prohibited. It is not recommended to drink alcohol or strong tea. A woman's diet should include folic acid. You can get it from liver, legumes, beets, and green peas.

Prunes, dried apricots, carrots, beets, and plums help prevent constipation. If you gain excessive weight, it is recommended to give up sugar and replace it with honey. Find out how many months 28 weeks of pregnancy are. Attention!

The information published on the website is for informational purposes only and is intended for informational purposes only. Site visitors should not use them as medical advice! The site editors do not recommend self-medication. Determining the diagnosis and choosing a treatment method remains the exclusive prerogative of your attending physician! Remember that only complete diagnosis and therapy under the supervision of a doctor will help you completely get rid of the disease!

Pregnancy at 6 months is considered the end of the “golden” period of the entire period of bearing a child, the second trimester. This stage is accompanied by certain features and difficulties, but mothers most often tolerate it easily, although the tummy already causes some inconvenience.

6 months is how many weeks of pregnancy?

The beginning of the sixth month occurs at the end of the second trimester. It starts at the 21st and ends at the 24th obstetric week. In calendar terms, these values differ and fall between the 23rd and 26th weeks.

What week does the 6th month start from? Throughout the world, pregnancy is usually calculated according to obstetric weeks, consisting of 28 days. This sometimes confuses inexperienced mothers who rely on calendar dates.

6 months pregnant: what's happening

A key feature of the sixth month is considered to be active weight gain for both mother and baby. This is associated with a number of “troubles” that cause significant discomfort.

Normally, weight gain by this period is 4.5-6 kg, depending on the woman’s physique - in thin pregnant women this process is less pronounced than in plump ones. In general, during the sixth month, mommy gains 2-2.5 kg (about 500 g per week).

During the period of active growth of the baby and uterus, the following may be added to pregnancy symptoms:

heartburn
constipation
frequent stool
swelling of the legs
dizziness

These “surprises” are associated with a rapid increase in the volume of the uterus, which from the inside puts pressure on all the organs and vital systems of the expectant mother. The following will help you avoid them: proper nutrition, normal drinking regimen and physical activity (walking, gymnastics).

Pregnancy 6 months: fetal development

By the sixth month, the baby also changes significantly. The baby already looks like a full-fledged human being, with all vital systems developed, except the respiratory one.

At the 22nd week, the weight of the fetus is 350 g with a height of 19-20 cm. But in 28 days it almost triples - by the end of 6 months the fetus weighs about 900 g, while growing by 4-5 cm.

Child development at 6 months:

the baby’s arms and legs become completely controllable, because of this he often pushes and pleases his mother with his activity;
the baby is already dreaming;
boys and girls begin to develop their genital organs;
the fetus hears and distinguishes sounds well;
his brain continues to actively develop;
by the 24th week, the baby’s eyes fully open, which are still covered with film, but already react to light;
the fetal face becomes more meaningful - on an ultrasound you can see how the baby frowns or smiles;
The baby's ears take on their final shape.

Belly at 6 months pregnant

The belly at the 6th month of pregnancy is already clearly visible on the body of the expectant mother. By this time, the uterus reaches a height of up to 30 cm, and therefore rises significantly above the navel area.

But for all pregnant women, the belly looks different at this stage. It depends on the presentation of the fetus and the body type of the mother. If the placenta is attached to the front wall of the uterus, and the woman is naturally curvy, then by the sixth month the belly looks quite large and rounded, and in thin pregnant women, whose babies are attached to the back wall of the uterus, the belly is small and “neat.”

During this period, many mothers complain of pain in the lower abdomen. Why might they appear? Basically, the lower abdomen hurts due to pressure on the internal organs of the enlarged uterus. It may also be a sign that the uterus is “charging” and preparing for childbirth. If the stomach becomes very hard for a few seconds up to 10 times a day, this is a normal phenomenon that should not be feared.

If you constantly have tightness in your lower abdomen, then this is a reason to consult a gynecologist to rule out premature birth.

Discharge during pregnancy at 6 months

In the sixth month, vaginal discharge continues to be a constant “companion” of pregnant women. Do not panic if they have increased in volume - in obstetric practice it is considered normal if clear discharge intensifies towards the end of the second trimester.

If blood appears in them, then urgent consultation with a doctor is required. Bloody and brown discharge in later stages may appear due to:

incorrect location of the placenta in the uterine cavity;
problems with blood vessels in the fetus;
trauma to the genital tract, for example, after sexual intercourse;
infections and diseases of the cervix;
genetic diseases.

Miscarriage at 6 months of pregnancy

Late miscarriages at 22-27 weeks are classified in medical practice as premature birth. A miscarriage usually begins with abdominal pain and spotting, signaling a problem.

The most common causes of late miscarriage are disturbances in the development of the fetus or inflammatory processes in the mother’s body, which provoke placental abruption. This process occurs in different ways - in some women it is very painful, while in others it is completely asymptomatic.

There are cases when young girls who are not yet ready to become mothers think about how to deliberately provoke a miscarriage in the sixth month. It is not recommended to carry out this process on your own, as it is fraught with serious dangers for the pregnant woman, including death. If for various reasons you want to terminate a pregnancy at a later stage, then you need to seek help from a gynecologist who can carry out the procedure with minimal losses for the woman.

Abortion at 6 months

Termination of pregnancy in the 6th month is punishable by criminal liability, so doctors can carry out this procedure legally only if there are serious reasons.

Indications for abortion at 6 months are:

serious disturbances in fetal development;
frozen pregnancy;
genetic diseases of the baby;
infection of a pregnant woman;
severe mental illness in women.

Remember! The longer the pregnancy, the more difficult it will be to terminate it. Therefore, doctors recommend deciding on plans for motherhood before 12 weeks - before this period, termination can be carried out at the request of the woman legally.

Childbirth at 6 months of pregnancy

Childbirth at six months is very dangerous for the fetus, which by this time has not yet developed the respiratory system. If delivery occurs between the 22nd and 26th weeks, the birth is called premature and has serious consequences.

Children born at 6 months are very weak. Doctors rarely manage to leave such small babies. Based on these difficulties, obstetricians and gynecologists insist that childbirth occurring at the end of the second trimester is a miscarriage, since only in isolated cases do babies survive.

Experts recommend that pregnant women during this dangerous period carefully protect themselves and their unborn baby from all factors that provoke childbirth. If the threat could not be prevented, then at the first symptoms it is necessary to urgently seek help from gynecologists - in 85% of cases they manage to stop the birth process and maintain the pregnancy.

Nausea at 6 months of pregnancy: causes

Another “complication” of the sixth month is late toxicosis, which is dangerous for the mother and the unborn baby. Nausea and vomiting that occurs at 22-26 weeks have serious consequences, leading to oxygen starvation of the fetus.

Why does late toxicosis occur? The reasons may be both the individual characteristics of the woman, whose body has not been able to adapt to the “belly” by this time, as well as physiological ones, arising from the strong pressure of the uterus on the internal organs of the expectant mother.

Late toxicosis can also develop due to overeating, eating “unhealthy” foods, and neglecting the “rules” of an interesting situation. Balance your diet and activity, create the right menu, do not deny yourself fluids (within reasonable limits), provide the body with a full supply of vitamins and minerals necessary for the development of the baby, and then you will be able to prevent nausea in the 6th month.

Nutrition at 6 months of pregnancy

The nutritional rules in the sixth month are no different from the general recommendations that women are encouraged to adhere to from the moment they conceive a baby. Do not forget that at this stage the fetus begins to actively accumulate fat under the skin, so the mother’s main task is to provide the baby with all the important substances for full development.

At the end of the second trimester, it is necessary to strictly monitor your diet. During the day, the diet should include 6-7 meals, and portions should consist of small volumes - it is better to eat more often, but a little at a time. Fractional nutrition is important for the expectant mother, who under no circumstances should gain excess weight, as it will complicate the upcoming birth process.

Is it possible to fly while 6 months pregnant?

Up to seven months you can safely travel around the world and fly on airplanes. But do not forget that when planning a flight or a long trip, you need to focus on your own condition.

It is best to decide whether it is possible to fly at 6 months with a gynecologist. The doctor will be able to objectively assess your condition and give the necessary recommendations before the flight.

Keep in mind that not all airlines agree to transport late-term pregnant women. In most cases, when reserving a seat, they ask a woman in an interesting position to provide a certificate from a gynecologist, which states that the woman has no contraindications to travel through airspace.

Sex at 6 months pregnant

Experienced mothers note that by the sixth month they begin to experience strong sexual desire. But not everyone decides to have sex because they are afraid of harming the baby.

Gynecologists usually do not prohibit having sex in later stages unless there are medical indications, such as the threat of miscarriage, manifested in increased uterine tone.

It is important to understand that an orgasm, during which frequent contractions of the uterus occur, can provoke spontaneous abortion. Therefore, if you decide to have sex, then do not forget that sexual contact should be smooth and gentle, without sharp and deep penetrations, and take place in a position that prevents pressure on the stomach.

The end of the second trimester has several “unpleasant” features, which the following tips will help you avoid and make easier:

If your back starts to hurt and your stomach is very tight, then it’s time to purchase a bandage. This is a medical elastic belt that will help support the stomach and relieve stress from the back;
Often by 6 months the skin begins to itch and itch. Baby oil or a special cream for stretch marks will help get rid of it;
If your arms or legs begin to swell, you should reduce your daily fluid intake and try not to sit too long or lie in one position.

It should be added that the 6th month of pregnancy is the final milestone for maternity leave. If you are a working mother, then you can safely begin to relax and count on rest, during which it will be easier to endure all the difficulties of an interesting situation.

The sixth month marks the end of the second trimester, a relatively calm and easy one in your pregnancy. By this time, the woman has already fully experienced all the delights of pregnancy and the joy of communicating with the baby, his movements are already distinct and strong, and his tummy has already grown significantly and is rounded. By this time, the woman’s figure had changed a lot, her waist had smoothed out, kilograms of weight had increased, her gait and appearance had changed. But these are pleasant changes that bring you closer to meeting the baby. The woman is now still cheerful and full of energy, she needs to walk a lot and be physically active, and gradually prepare for childbirth, collect a dowry and attend courses for expectant mothers.

What happens to the body in the 6th month

The figure of the expectant mother is changing significantly - the tummy has already grown significantly, and the waist has become smoother, the back has bent forward, movements have become leisurely and smooth, and an increase in body weight is already felt, familiar things have become small, and synthetic elements of clothing can cause discomfort and sweating.

This means that you will need to update your usual wardrobe and purchase more spacious and comfortable items and underwear made from natural and breathable materials (cotton, linen, knitwear). In the summer, a woman may have a hard time with heat and stuffy rooms; she should spend more time in the fresh air and in the cool to avoid hypoxia.

You need to set aside time for yourself to rest, avoid standing on your feet for long periods of time and avoid looking in uncomfortable positions, and reduce the time you spend at the computer. Gymnastics for pregnant women and physical activity, breathing exercises and training for the upcoming birth will be useful; this will help maintain emotional and physical tone.

Now the belly and chest are actively growing, weight is gaining and you need to make sure that dryness, itching of the skin and stretch marks do not occur. It is worth treating the skin with special products against stretch marks and moisturizing and nourishing it.

In a month, the fundus of the uterus will rise by four to five centimeters and reach a height of 28-29 cm from the pubis; now the uterus is increasing the thickness of its walls and stretching due to the active growth of the fetus, which has completely occupied its entire cavity.

Now the weight gain has become significant, and it will continue until the end of pregnancy, but the weight will be smoothly and evenly distributed throughout the body. It is important to weigh yourself regularly and monitor your gains; they should not deviate too much from the norm, and this should be done once a week, in the morning, on an empty stomach, wearing only underwear. The average increase should be 500g per month, by the end of the month a total of up to 8 kg of weight will be added, depending on the initial weight and build. If there are excessive increases, tell your doctor - this is a risk factor for pregnancy complications, late toxicosis and edema.

During this period, the level of blood cholesterol increases, from which the synthesis of sex hormones and substances necessary for the fetus occurs, this does not threaten the woman in any way, and there is no need to worry about this, everything is under control.

Fetal development: weight, size and gender

At six months, the child already looks almost the way he will then see the world, only in a smaller and thinner version. All the baby’s organs and systems are already functioning, working and improving, the baby’s senses are already quite active - he can hear sounds inside and outside the mother’s body, can make sucking movements, puts a finger in his mouth, unclenches and clenches his fists, and moves actively. The formation of the baby’s brain is actively taking place - convolutions and grooves are already visible in it, which gradually become deeper and clearer, more and more new zones are formed in the cerebral cortex. The brain weight will reach 100g at the end of the month. The lungs are still one of the most immature organs of the fetus - alveoli are actively forming in them, but they do not yet contain enough of a special substance, surfactant, which prevents the lungs from sticking together when inhaling. Therefore, the child is not at all ready for the outside world, although he makes the first semblance of respiratory movements, swallowing amniotic fluid into the trachea and bronchi. If a child is born at this time, he will be extremely immature, but doctors will actively nurse him and in 50% of cases the baby will be able to survive in the future.

Although the child's eyes are not yet closed, the retina can react to light, he tries to open his eyes. The child has pronounced facial expressions, he can frown, wince, and move his eyebrows. The fetal body is still very thin, but from this month subcutaneous fat begins to actively accumulate. At the same time, now the weight gain of a pregnant woman goes precisely to the needs of the fetus; it will gain 10 g per day, and in a month it can double its weight, sometimes more. The baby's bone tissue is actively strengthening, his nails, eyelashes and eyebrows have practically formed, now the baby already has a semblance of a daily routine with periods of sleep and activity, and when awake he can move quite sensitively and kick his mother. The baby may react to a loud sound or excitement of the mother, her experiences and emotions. Now the baby is located in the uterus with his legs tucked in, but his position is not stable and can change with both his head and buttocks down. It is reliably protected from the external environment by amniotic fluid and the uterus, which prevent infections, tremors and other dangerous factors from penetrating into it, and maintain body temperature. By the end of the month, the fetus can reach a height of 35 cm and a weight of up to 800 g. It is still very slender, and the skin has a bright red color due to translucent vessels. But the skin gradually thickens and wrinkles appear.

The fetal heartbeat can now be actively listened to with a stethoscope; it is about 120-160 beats per minute, which allows blood to be supplied to all organs of the fetus. The development of the genitals occurs, in boys the testicles descend into the scrotum, in girls the vagina is formed, the sex of the fetus can already be determined by ultrasound.

Feelings of the expectant mother

With a normal pregnancy, there will be no significant changes in your well-being in the sixth month. The expectant mother will feel good and enjoy future motherhood, watching the growth of her tummy and the movements of her little one. At the same time, the still expanding belly does not greatly restrict movement, and even the choice of a dowry is still ahead. If you already know the gender of the baby, you can also think about choosing a name for him.

One of the most pleasant sensations will be the movement of the fetus; now its movements are distinctly strong, the baby can push, toss and turn and fuss in the stomach. Watch his movements; active movements that are too rare or too frequent may indicate discomfort for the baby and require the attention of doctors.

You may feel slightly tired from the state of pregnancy, and the woman may be distracted and forgetful. In the sixth month, minor, unpleasant pain in the back or area under the ribs may occur. This occurs as a result of tension in the uterine ligaments and muscle stretching, as well as some softening of the spine and joints.

The increase in the volume of blood that circulates through the vessels can give a feeling of sweating and heat, and sometimes there may be a feeling of nasal congestion and even nosebleeds due to swelling of the mucous membrane. Bleeding and increased sensitivity of the gums may occur, which can be due to a lack of vitamins and hormonal changes in the mucous membranes. There is an increase in the amount of fluid in the body, increased urine output and increased pressure from the uterus on the bladder, which leads to more frequent trips to the toilet, and sometimes when sneezing or coughing, involuntary release of a few drops of urine may occur, especially when the bladder is full.

The load on the legs increases, which can lead to swelling and cramps of the calf muscles; you need to rest your legs more often by raising them above body level on a pillow or headboard. If you are prone to varicose veins, elastic bandages or tights may be recommended. Swelling in the arm area may occur with pain and discomfort, and crawling. Edema occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in the body, and because of this, compression of the nerve roots occurs. Numbness of the hands and crawling sensations are unpleasant, but not dangerous for the pregnant woman and the fetus.

Sixth month problems

Pressure of the uterus on the urinary tract and stagnation of urine in the bladder can lead to the development of a urinary tract infection, so you need to strictly monitor regular bladder emptying and hygiene of the intimate area.

In response to fetal movements, periodic tensions of the uterine wall may occur; these are training or false contractions; they prepare the uterus for childbirth. There are about 10 such contractions per day; they go away on their own and do not cause harm to the fetus. If the tone of the uterus increases, you need to lie down and relax, lie on your side, it usually goes away. But if these periodic contractions become regularly painful, you should immediately call an ambulance and go to the hospital; this could be premature labor or its threat. Increased uterine tone is dangerous for the fetus; it limits the access of oxygen to the fetus and can lead to placental abruption and pregnancy pathologies. It is important to limit physical activity and stress, intimacy and maintain a strict regime. Medications to reduce uterine tone, magnesium supplements and sedatives may also be prescribed.

During this period, alarming symptoms may include such manifestations as bloody discharge from the genital tract, acute abdominal pain, profuse watery transparent discharge (leakage of water), severe swelling of the arms and legs, face, excess weight gain, development of repeated vomiting, headaches , increased pressure. All these conditions require calling an ambulance and hospitalization.

Analyzes and examinations

This month there will be visits to the doctor and examination in order to identify possible health deviations and problems in time. At the next visit, the woman’s weight and blood pressure are measured, the abdominal circumference is determined, the height of the uterine fundus is determined, the position of the fetus and its main parts of the body are felt, and the heartbeat is listened to with a special stethoscope. It is also necessary to examine the woman’s extremities to identify hidden edema and abnormalities in the structure of the veins.

Before each visit to the doctor, a woman undergoes a general urine test to monitor kidney function and detect protein or glucose in the urine. If there is an increased risk of diabetes, a complete blood count and blood glucose test will also be prescribed.

During this period, the second planned ultrasound of the fetus is performed; this month you will be told with certainty the gender of the baby if the baby does not turn his back to the monitor. First of all, as part of this ultrasound, a detailed examination of the fetus will be carried out - identifying severe developmental anomalies and genetic pathology, defects in the structure of internal organs and systems. The uterus and cervix are also examined to determine their condition; the position and thickness, structure of the placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid are examined to determine their quantity and transparency. Dopplerography can also be performed - a procedure to study the uteroplacental blood flow, giving an idea of how well the fetus is nourished, whether it has feto-placental insufficiency; if deviations from the norm are detected, the pregnant woman is sent for additional examinations.

This month the following control tests will also be carried out - a general blood test with determination of hemoglobin level, a biochemical blood test and determination of liver enzymes. If a woman has a negative Rh factor, the level of antibodies to the Rh factor is monitored. If indicated, hormonal tests and consultations with specialists will be carried out.

Mom's diet and weight

During this month, the weight gain will be about 2.5 kg; it is worth monitoring your weight so as not to miss swelling and the development of preeclampsia. The diet of a pregnant woman generally remains the same as in previous months. It is worth giving up unhealthy foods such as fatty, sweet and spicy foods, processed foods and fast food. You need to eat fractionally, in small portions, often, while giving preference to light, non-calorie foods. The diet should contain a sufficient amount of protein, plant fiber and calcium-containing foods. It is important to eat meat and fish, a lot of fresh and thermally processed vegetables and fruits, milk and dairy products.

It is worth giving up or reducing as much as possible the consumption of salt and sugar, they retain water in the body and lead to swelling. You need to drink clean non-carbonated water, herbal teas and juices, giving up sugary drinks and sodas. To prevent flatulence, you need to avoid gas-forming foods and dishes.

Sex

If no contraindications are identified, intimate life during pregnancy is not contraindicated, orgasm and more intimate contacts will help the expectant mother feel better and do not harm the child at all. During intimate intimacy, pleasure hormones and endorphins are released, which lead to a reduction in stress and improve uteroplacental blood circulation. It is important to choose the right position to avoid pressure on the abdomen and deep penetration, while all movements should be gentle and smooth.

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At the 6th month of pregnancy, the baby’s lungs are fully formed, and the alveoli begin to produce surfactant, which prevents the alveoli from sticking together during breathing. The child is already breathing with the help of his lungs, but there is not enough surfactant for independent breathing. Therefore, in the event of premature birth, the baby must be kept in an incubator, where there are complex hardware systems for maintaining breathing.

At this stage, the inner ear, the organ that controls the balance of the body, is already fully formed. Therefore, the child can not only actively move, but also determine what position he is in. Before this period, the baby's eyes were completely closed, but at the 6th month he can already blink. Due to the formed iris, the child's eyes already have a certain color. The organ of hearing has a developed structure and structure.

The baby's skin begins to produce pigment, so it becomes less transparent. Due to the formation of a dermatographic pattern, fingerprints can already be detected on the baby. The growth of eyelashes and hair on the head continues.

During this period, the main structural components of the brain are intensively improved, their active connection is formed with the underlying structures: the adrenal glands, the thyroid gland, and the genitals. At the 6th month, the adrenal glands produce glucocorticoid hormones.

In boys, the process of lowering the testicles into the scrotum is actively underway.

During the fifth and sixth months, the baby's height doubles. By the end of the sixth month, the weight of the fetus reaches 700-750 g, and its height is 20 cm.

Physiological changes in the mother's body

In the 6th month, due to the production of placental lactogen, rapid growth of the mammary glands begins, and colostrum, a specific golden secretion, begins to be released from the nipples. Therefore, starting from this period, it is recommended to begin preparing the breasts for breastfeeding: you can wash them with cool water and wipe them with a rough towel. However, this should be done as carefully as possible, since due to the reflex mechanism, unwanted contractions of the uterus may occur, which will lead to premature birth.

At the 6th month, the fundus of the uterus is located at the level of the navel. Due to active movements of the fetus, short-term contractions lasting 1-2 minutes may occur. There is no need to be afraid - they do not pose a threat to the fetus and do not lead to termination of pregnancy. On the contrary, it is a physiological process that prepares the uterus for childbirth by alternating periods of contraction and relaxation.

It is in the 6th month that a woman gains maximum weight (approximately 8-10 kg). Sharp movements of the fetus in the uterus can be clearly heard. Due to its large size, a pregnant woman may be bothered by shooting pain in the lower back, radiating to the lower abdomen or groin.

During this period, due to the leaching of calcium from the skeletal system (under the influence of hormones), a woman may develop foot deformity or flat feet. Additional stress on the spine and joints is created not only due to the leaching of calcium, but also due to the rapid growth of the uterus.

There is an increase of 30% in stroke volume of the heart (the amount of blood that is ejected by the left ventricle into the lumen of the aorta in one contraction). The heart rate also increases by about 20%. At the 6th month of pregnancy, blood pressure indicators reach minimum values: a decrease of approximately 20 mm. rt. Art. In the 3rd trimester, they usually return to normal. Due to the increase in blood volume, the formation of unexpressed edema in the legs is observed.

The increase in circulating plasma volume occurs at a faster rate than the increase in red blood cells. Also, most of the hemoglobin is spent on enhanced synthesis of fetal hemoglobin HBF, due to which oxygen is delivered to the fetal tissues. These facts explain the possible occurrence of anemia in pregnant women.

As for the genitourinary system, the outflow of urine is disrupted, which leads to its stagnation, possible retrograde reflux, expansion of the pelvicalyceal complex, and the development of pyelonephritis.

The load on the gastrointestinal tract manifests itself in the form of slow motility and evacuation of food. Therefore, a pregnant woman may be bothered by such manifestations of dyspeptic symptoms as heartburn, constipation, and flatulence.

Also, due to the increase in the size of the uterus, the load on the lungs increases. However, despite the high position of the diaphragm, the respiratory surface of the lungs does not decrease due to the expansion of the chest and dilation of the bronchi under the influence of placental hormones.

You may notice that the timbre of a pregnant woman's voice changes. This is due to swelling of the trachea and larynx.

Calcium deficiency due to its increased consumption for the synthesis of bone tissue in the baby can lead to neuralgia, cramps in the calf muscles, pain in the sacrum and lower back, and a feeling of numbness in the fingers.

Stretch marks that appear on the lateral surfaces of the body in the 5th month of pregnancy may increase in size; hyperpigmentation of the face, nipples, perineal skin and linea alba becomes more pronounced.

Changes in appearance

In the 6th month, a woman’s mammary glands grow faster, and at the same time a specific golden-colored secretion is released from the nipples - colostrum. The fundus of the uterus is located at the level of the navel.

By the end of the second trimester, a pregnant woman's belly begins to take on a certain shape.

Normal pregnancy and the correct position of the fetus are characterized by the formation of an ovoid (egg-shaped) abdomen; Polyhydramnios is characterized by the formation of a spherical abdomen; the transverse position of the fetus leads to the shape of the abdomen in the form of a transverse oval. Women with a narrow pelvis have a “pointed” belly, slightly pointed towards the top. If a woman is multiparous, the belly may be slightly saggy.

It is in the 6th month that a woman gains maximum weight (approximately 8-10 kg).

Due to the growth of the abdomen, stretch marks on the skin (striae) may become wider and deeper. To prevent their formation, a pregnant woman is allowed to use products that improve the condition of the skin with the addition of vitamins A and E, moisturizing skin creams, as well as special massage. The massage technique is simple: lightly stroking the stomach clockwise, you need to pinch the skin on the periphery. If there is an increased risk of miscarriage, massage is contraindicated.

At the 6th month, the appearance of white or yellowish vaginal discharge may intensify. This is the so-called leukorrhea, which develops due to an increase in blood flow to the vaginal tissues.

Emotional background

The general emotional state of a woman in the 6th month of pregnancy is stable. In general, the second trimester is the most favorable period in this regard: there is no increased fatigue and changes in appetite, and the likelihood of developing depression is reduced.

However, despite all this, the expectant mother is recommended to lead a lifestyle that excludes stressful conditions. The emotions experienced should be as positive as possible: endorphin hormones are produced that penetrate the placental barrier and directly affect the fetus. In addition, positive maternal emotions accelerate the growth of the fetus and have a beneficial effect on its sensory perception.

The daily caloric intake should contain approximately 3000 kcal.

In this case, consumed standards include:

approximately 120 g of protein (2 g per 1 kg of body weight),
85 g fat (1.5 g per 1 kg body weight),
400 g of carbohydrates (6.5 g per 1 kg of body weight).

Particular attention must be paid to the protein consumed. The main amount (more than 50%) should be supplied with cottage cheese, sour cream, cheese, and milk. That is, you cannot limit animal protein. In addition, cottage cheese should have a fat content above 5%, and milk and kefir with a fat content of at least 3%, since normal absorption of calcium is possible only in combination with fats.

As for fats, their content should be at least 40% from products of plant origin. From animal origin, it is recommended to consume Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, found in large quantities in sea fish: salmon, trout, sardines. Of the plant products in this regard, flaxseed oil and nuts are of great benefit.

The main source of carbohydrates should be foods rich in fiber: fruits and vegetables, bread and cereals. It is recommended to limit foods that are sources of “fast” sugars in your diet.

In the 6th month of pregnancy, a woman may experience constipation (due to increased growth of the uterus). Laxatives are contraindicated in this situation. A diet rich in fresh, stewed, baked vegetables and fruits can help in this situation.

Fermented milk products with a high content of probiotics, which are live microorganisms identical to the natural intestinal microflora, can help normalize the digestion process.

The volume of fluid consumed should be approximately 1-1.5 liters per day (20 ml/kg body weight), salt - 3-4 g/day. Such standards are due to the fact that the volume of circulating fluid is already increased due to an increase in the volume of circulating plasma and formed elements.

Limiting physical activity during the sixth month of pregnancy - 30%.

The main types of exercises performed include:

walking on foot. Prevents the development of edema, promotes overall strengthening of the body. Since in the 6th month the belly reaches a significant size, you can use a special bandage for pregnant women;
swimming. Rapid immersion and jumping into water are absolutely contraindicated. You need to swim without sudden turns, at a calm pace. Swimming in open water is prohibited; you only need to visit the pool;
bike. Training can be carried out throughout the entire period of pregnancy. However, in order to avoid injuries and falls, it is better to limit yourself to an exercise bike;
strength exercises. The optimal weight of dumbbells lifted is about 2-3 kg;
yoga. Recently, a fairly common type of activity during pregnancy. Develops flexibility, maintains muscle tone, relieves stress. However, it is necessary to abandon poses on the stomach, bending back, and bending forward.

In addition, the list of exercises performed should include a standard set of exercises to strengthen the hip joints (sitting on the floor, with legs bent at the knees, one foot pressed against the other, knees gently pressed to the floor with your hands), shoulder muscles (raising your arms alternately with dumbbells weighing 2 - 3 kg in front of you to shoulder level) and pelvic girdle (raising the pelvic area in a supine position), abdominal muscles (raising legs in a supine position), legs (bending/extending legs in a sitting/lying position, squats , walking “on tiptoes”) and arms (alternate flexion/extension of arms at the elbow joint, wrist with dumbbells weighing 2 - 3 kg).

In addition, it is very useful to perform breathing exercises, spending about 10 minutes a day on the exercises. The complex includes:

chest breathing: the abdominal muscles and diaphragm are not involved. Taking deep breaths in and out through the nose;
diaphragmatic breathing: the chest muscles are not involved. Only the diaphragm and the muscles of the abdominal wall are involved in the act of breathing. Take deep breaths and exhale for 3-5 seconds;
breathing like a dog: in a position on all fours, breathing is frequent and rhythmic with the tongue hanging out.

Examinations in the sixth month

Routine examination by an obstetrician-gynecologist, including:

examination of the uterus (fundus of the uterus at the level of the navel), measuring the abdominal circumference, listening to the fetal heartbeat (at these times it is possible with the help of a stethoscope);
Ultrasound of the fetus - in addition to assessing the condition of the fetus, anomalies in the position of the placenta (if any), the umbilical cord, the quantity and quality of amniotic fluid are detected;
Dopplerography - assessment of the degree of blood flow in the main vessels of the fetus, as well as the work of its heart. A Doppler study allows a pregnant woman to be placed in a certain risk group for the development of gestosis;
examination of general urine and blood tests, measurement of a woman’s blood pressure and weight;
A blood test for glucose tolerance is carried out precisely at this stage in order to diagnose gestational diabetes (a temporary type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy). Due to the increase in fetal size, gestational diabetes may be an indication for cesarean section.

The blood test pays special attention to the hemoglobin level and red blood cell count to diagnose anemia in pregnancy.

Possible complications

The risk of developing fetal defects at this stage is lower than at other stages, since the main organ systems have already been formed.

The greatest danger during this period is directly caused by the pathology of the cervix in the form of isthmic-cervical insufficiency. Its main reason is the rapid growth of the fetus and the inability to retain it in the uterine cavity with an increased risk of miscarriage. To prevent this complication, a suture can be placed on the cervix before labor occurs. The procedure is usually painless.

When to see a doctor immediately

pronounced signs of disruption of the gastrointestinal tract: frequent constipation, heartburn;
signs of anemia: frequent dizziness, general weakness;
symptoms of damage to the urinary system: lumbar pain, painful frequent urination, fever;
any vaginal bleeding;
signs of infection of the genital tract: nagging discomfort in the lower abdomen, pathological discharge;
decompensation of existing chronic diseases in a pregnant woman;
sudden, sharp pain in the lower abdomen.

Even though the baby begins to gain fat at an accelerated pace, it still looks red and wrinkled. This happens because the skin develops much faster than sufficient fat deposits can form underneath it, so the skin is still saggy. Redness is a consequence of the accumulation of pigments in the skin, which makes it less transparent.
The child is showing more and more activity, but still kicks and pushes very gently. On video footage during fetal endoscopy at this time, you can see how the child, being in the uterus, grabs the umbilical cord with his hands and pushes into the amnion, the watery membrane of the fetus, which now represents the entire world around him.
The child continues to swallow small amounts of surrounding fluid and excrete it from the body in the form of urine. The moisture and sugars it extracts from the amniotic fluid are another important source of nutrition for it, along with what it receives through the placenta and umbilical cord. Swallowing liquid may cause hiccups, which you will feel when the fetus begins to bounce around inside you.
Due to the pigmentation of the skin, the baby's hands have a pink-red color. Until recently, he simply put his thumb in his mouth, but now he really sucks it. The baby's nails are almost completely formed. The baby continues to grow and prepare for birth. He feels very comfortable in the uterus, Braxton Hicks contractions do not bother the baby. The baby is now accumulating meconium (original stool)
The length from the crown to the sacrum is about 30 cm.
Weight – about 500-510 g.

Observation of very premature babies, whose sleep rhythm is the same as that of the fetus, makes it possible to establish how daily activity is organized in the 5th month of pregnancy. It's very simple: he sleeps almost 24 hours a day, but short periods of activity are followed by rest lasting 50 minutes. His heart beats at the same rhythm, which proves that he sleeps deep and long until the 28th week of fetal development.
But at the same time he pushes you with his feet! This does not mean that, upon waking up, he arranges a “full contact” session for you. It floats in the amniotic fluid, touching the walls of the uterus, reflexively responding to the movements of your body. Indeed, it is reflexive, because voluntary responses require the maturity of his brain, which has not yet completed its development.
At this stage of development, his voluntary movements become possible, since, starting from the 3rd month of pregnancy, the nerve fibers of the spinal cord (which is not at all an organ of thought) are sequentially connected to the nerve fibers of his muscles.
Thus, he outlines the kind of walking that will surprise pediatricians at birth. We are talking about automatic walking, written in his genes. These alternating movements are due to the recent appearance of rhythm generator neurons in the spinal cord.
You yourself
You can more clearly distinguish the movements of the unborn child, not only because he grows and moves more, but also because their repetition allows you to recognize them well.
You notice with tenderness that your baby uses the very time when you are resting for his exercises. In fact, this is not so: it’s just that at this time you are more attentive to his movements.
22 (24) weeks
The length of the fruit is about 30 cm, weight 600-680 grams. Such a fetus can be born alive and perform extrauterine respiratory movements and even survive if it is kept in special incubators, with artificial ventilation of the lungs and the use of appropriate means of intensive care and resuscitation.
His ear is not only an organ of hearing, but also a center of balance. The vestibular apparatus is located in the inner ear. Thanks to it, the fetus can spin around without experiencing dizziness, and also allows itself to perform different “tricks” when swimming in the amniotic “pool”.
The vestibular apparatus of your unborn child is so perfect that he orients himself in space in accordance with his “mood” and makes himself as comfortable as possible, resting his legs against the wall of the uterus.
Researchers theorize that he uses this method (and information from the vestibular system) to put himself in the right position in preparation for his journey into the big world. Can we conclude that children who choose other positions at the time of birth have an immature vestibular system?
A layer of fat continues to accumulate under the skin, which after birth will allow the baby to maintain optimal body temperature and not be afraid of hypothermia. This is why premature newborns are forced to stay in special incubators: without this measure, the baby simply will not survive.
You yourself
The uterus reaches the diaphragm, and the lungs are not able to take in the full volume of air. Therefore, in order for the lungs to fill their entire volume with air, the chest increases in width by 5-7 cm. This expansion allows you to gain up to 20% additional oxygen, which is so necessary for both of you.
This week you may feel uterine contractions (abdominal wall tension), called Braxton Hicks contractions. This is absolutely normal - the uterus is slowly starting to exercise before giving birth. But you also need to know about sensations that cannot be ignored. Signs of premature birth are:
* The frequency of uterine contractions reaches five per hour or more;
* Discharge of scarlet blood from the genital tract;
* Signs of preeclampsia (acute or prolonged abdominal pain, vomiting);
* Sudden discharge of clear, watery fluid from the genital tract;
* Monotonous aching pain in the lower back;
* Strong pressure in the lower pelvis.
If such signs appear, you should immediately consult a doctor!
The motor activity of the fetus superficially resembles the movements of a newborn baby.

23 (25) weeks
The baby is growing by leaps and bounds! Its weight is about 700 grams. Intensive strengthening of the osteoarticular system continues.
This week the child is gradually beginning to open his eyes slightly. By this time, they are almost completely formed, all the layers of the eyeball are now exactly the same as they will be at birth. If a child has blue eyes, then rest assured: they are already blue. This is true for people of any race, despite the fact that the final color of the eyes is determined only a few months after birth.
The baby still looks quite weak and thin, but this will soon change as most fat deposits occur in the later stages of pregnancy. By the time he gives birth, he will have significantly increased his weight, become fat and acquire that plumpness that is characteristic of all newborns. The skin still remains red and wrinkled, but as the subcutaneous tissue grows, the skin will smooth out and become lighter. The baby already has a full "set" of eyelashes, eyebrows and nails, although they are still relatively small and will continue to grow.
The veins show through your baby's skin. Your child can hear you and everything that happens around you. Although we assume that the womb is a quiet place, the baby is still surrounded by noise for a long time inside you. This is the beating of your heart, the grumbling during digestion, and much more that we cannot hear, but the baby can hear perfectly well. You may even be able to tell what your baby is hearing—the baby may kick harder or jerk sharply at a sudden loud sound. The uterus also allows some light to pass through, which the baby can see. So the opinion that the child is in the womb in darkness and silence is wrong.
The length from the crown to the sacrum is about 32.5-33 cm.
Weight – about 794 – 800 g.

The sixth month, like the fifth, can be called a month of movement. The fetus actively and willingly moves, if... not sleeping. And sleep takes him most of the day - from 16 to 20 hours. Having analyzed the recording of brain biocurrents, that is, the electroencephalogram (EEG), of a sleeping fetus, experts were surprised to discover two phases characteristic of adult sleep - slow and fast sleep.
In the sixth month, the fetus becomes larger and more mobile, and its individuality emerges more noticeably. He already has a “facial expression”. The mass of the brain increases, and its structure improves, grooves and convolutions are formed. He is preparing to think, see, hear, feel...
At the same time, the fetus begins to make constant breathing movements. The formation of the respiratory system occurs in the second to third weeks of pregnancy. And then, over the course of 18 weeks, the organs of this system become more complex and differentiated. The bronchial tree literally grows, branching into bronchi and bronchioles. Growing into the lung, they divide its tissue into segments and lobules. The very last to form are the alveolar ducts - the thinnest air-bearing tubes with microscopic bubbles - alveoli. Through the thin wall of these bubbles, carbon dioxide is replaced with life-giving oxygen. But the alveoli will straighten and fill with air only with the newborn’s first breath. And now the fetus is simply “working out” the system - making 50-60 respiratory movements per minute.
In this case, the lung tissue does not expand and air does not enter it. But amniotic fluid gets in. But their quantity is very small, they are quickly absorbed and do not cause any harm to the fetus. Breathing movements may be interrupted for half an hour or an hour, and then resume again.
The ability to perform respiratory movements is provided by the respiratory center, which is finally formed in the medulla oblongata at 22-23 weeks. The development of this center can be significantly delayed if the mother’s body is subjected to episodic, and even more so constant, intoxication with substances contained in tobacco and tobacco smoke, alcohol, and drugs. Under the influence of these toxic substances, for which there is practically no placental barrier, the central nervous system of the fetus is inhibited, and therefore the respiratory center localized in the brain. And this may cause the fact that by the time of birth, neither the respiratory center, nor the lungs, nor the bronchi will be fully ready to perform their functions.
In the meantime, sufficient oxygen supply to the fetus largely depends on whether the vascular system of the placental villi is well developed and how intense the uteroplacental blood circulation is. If a woman practically cannot influence the vascular system, since the placenta and all its structures were formed by the end of the third month, then blood circulation can be activated. To do this, you need to regularly perform a set of physical exercises (a doctor who constantly monitors the pregnant woman will help you choose it) and spend as much time in the fresh air as possible, moving enough.
By the sixth month, all parts of the fetal digestive system are well formed: the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, pancreas. The mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines already contains secretory cells, which after birth will produce gastric and intestinal juice. The liver actively begins to perform its main functions, including the synthesis and storage of glycogen, which is a source of carbohydrates for the fetus. And the hematopoietic functions are now completely transferred to the red bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus gland.
From the 20th week, the fetus begins to receive immunoglobulins from the mother through the placenta, which provide it with passive immunity. But, despite this, the fetus’s immune forces are still very weak, so its main defense is the mother’s body.
If a mother is sick during pregnancy, for example, with the flu, this can leave its mark on the cardiovascular, excretory and other systems of the fetus. The mark can be barely noticeable and quite serious. Based on this, during a flu epidemic, you should certainly not go to places where many people gather and involuntary contact with a patient with the flu or other diseases that are transmitted by airborne droplets is possible. It is also extremely important to promptly identify and treat inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, pustular skin diseases, and carefully monitor the condition of the nasopharynx and teeth. It's even better if this is done before pregnancy.
During the sixth month, the anatomical formation of the brain sections ends: the midbrain and cerebellum are added to the previously formed sections. And on the surface of the cerebral hemispheres, the formation of grooves and convolutions is completed. However, the final perfection of the central nervous system is still far away; its development continues after birth.
The face of a six-month fetus becomes more meaningful. The eyelids open well-formed eyes, with eyebrows visible above them. The nose takes on a clearer outline. But the most interesting thing is the ears. They increase in size and take on their final shape. The auricle, which began its development in the second month of embryonic life, is formed from a group of gradually fused tubercles. This process is very individual, and it is never known how many tubercles are fused and in what place their fusion will occur. Hence the wide variety of ear shapes in different people. It is no coincidence that this one of the most significant methods of personal identification is used in forensic science.
Although by the end of the sixth month all organs are formed and perform their functions, the fetus remains deeply premature and immature. And if he is born at this time - this could happen due to placental abruption or for other reasons - the chances of his survival will be very slim, even despite the advances of modern medicine.
By the sixth month there is a rapid increase in brain mass. Compare: at 2 months it weighs 2.0 g, at 5 months - 20-25 g, and by the end of the sixth - 100 g.
The ratio of spinal cord to brain mass decreases sharply. At three months it was 1:18, and at 6 months it was 1:100!
In the sixth month, all senses are functioning in the fetus. The formation of the function occurs in the following sequence: first, at the 3rd month, skin (tactile) sensitivity appears, then at 3.5 months - taste sensitivity, followed by the vestibular function at the 5th month, which ensures maintaining balance, and later, in 5-6 months, auditory and visual.
Based on materials from the book by Professor A. I. Brusilovsky “Life before birth.”