Fetal Development Week by Week – Week 25
Your baby is now about 1 ½ pounds and measures around 12 inches long. You are closely approaching your third trimester and the final stretch of your pregnancy. Now is a great time to investigate and start birthing classes if you haven’t already done so. By now, people may be noticing that you are pregnant. Maternity clothes may be a necessity, although you may still fit into some of your pre-pregnancy, looser clothing.
Taste buds are developing at this point and the baby even is able to distinguish sweet tastes. Blood vessels are developing in the lungs to prepare for their vital function after birth, but for now they are filled will amniotic fluid and are practicing breathing movements. Breathing is controlled by the nervous system.
If you were to shine a flashlight on your abdomen, the baby will turn their head toward the light because the optic nerve is now working. Fingerprints, toenails and fingernails are fully formed and the spine is straightening out. Bones are continuing to harden at this time.
Vernix, the waxy substance that covers your baby, is forming at a rapid pace. This protects their skin and helps regulate body temperature.