Hearing sharpens — familiar sounds may cause a reaction
Baby this week: about 28.9 cm — head to heel · about 500 g
≈ 28.9 cm — about the size of a grapefruit
Illustration enlarged for clarity — the amber marker shows true relative size
Your baby this week
- Hearing is developed enough that the fetus may react to loud noises or familiar voices
- Blood vessels in the lungs are developing to prepare for breathing after birth
- Skin is starting to look less translucent as pigment develops
- The inner ear, responsible for balance, is now fully developed
Your body this week
- Some notice more noticeable kicks and rolls, especially in the evening
- Skin itching, especially over the belly, can occur as it continues to stretch. Itching of the palms or soles, itching that keeps you awake, or itching that is worse at night is different: contact your maternity unit today, as soon as you notice it, because it can be a sign of a liver condition of pregnancy (obstetric cholestasis).
This week's tip: Talking, singing, or playing music can be a nice way to start connecting — the fetus can now hear muffled sounds from outside.
When to get help now
Contact your maternity unit now, even at night, if your baby is moving less than usual or the pattern has changed, you have any vaginal bleeding, fluid leaks from your vagina, you have regular or painful contractions before 37 weeks, or you have a severe headache, vision changes, pain just below the ribs or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet. Do not wait until the next day.
Sizes and milestones are typical ranges — every pregnancy runs on its own clock. Educational content; your prenatal care team's guidance always comes first.