Day 2 Parent Blog

Baby Development 4-8 Weeks Gestation

• Embryo inside is about 3/8" and weighs less than 1 gram.
• Nose and lips formation begins.
• Hands and feet are 1st seen.
• Major organs begin development.
• Embryo is about the size of a hen's egg.
• Embryo is 1" long and about 4 grams.
• Brain is develops and lumen of spinal cord connects with the brain allowing free cerebral spinal fluid flow.
• Baby is extremely reactive to its environment.
• Male sex hormone (testosterone) produced by testes
• Masculine development in males there is no change in females.

Changes in Moms Body

• In the 8th week of pregnancy the mom can have their first antenatal check-up which will take place at the hospital where she plans to have the baby. Due to the pregnancy hormones Mourning Sickness becomes a daily event. The development of the infant makes the bulge of the uterus the size of an apple.

Twins or Triplets Odds

• One thing to keep in mind is that the statistics - the odds or chances of having twins or multiples - are based on populations, not individuals. Consider the statistics for whole populations in relation to the factors that increase or decrease the chances of having twins.
• Twins: 1.2 per 100 live births 
• Triplets occur 1 per 6,889 births

Doctor/Midwife/Home-birth

• When looking into this area it is best to find a practice that has midwifes and doctors. Choosing between a doctor and a midwife is largely personal question. Normally, doctors are present only for the actual delivery of the baby and periodical checks during labor. Midwives on the the hand are typically present through the duration of labor and childbirth. You can choose to have your child at home but they are serious risks that must be thought through before doing so.

Tips for Healthy(Happy) Pregnancy

• The mother should get at least 8hrs of sleep every night, if you cant get it at night take naps throughout the day.
• Continue to wear your seat belt when riding in a car, the shoulder portion of the restraint should be positioned over the collar bone. The lap portion should be placed under the abdomen as low as possible on the hips and across the upper thighs, never above the abdomen. Also, pregnant women should sit as far from the air bag as possible.
• Eat 5-6 well balenced meals a day.
•  Dont consume alchool or take illegal narcotics.
• Don't even take over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies without first consulting your doctor.