The twelfth week of pregnancy is the end of the first trimester. For most women, it becomes the beginning of a radical change in health - toxicosis with all its unpleasant sensations begins to decrease and gradually disappears completely.
By 12 weeks of gestation, the placenta takes a leading role in the production of hormones necessary for the development of the fetus, and the corpus luteum, formed at the site of a fertilized egg, completes its work. Relief of the condition of the pregnant woman is associated with the wilting of the corpus luteum.
In some women, toxicosis may persist for a longer period, especially if several babies are expected.
The development of the fetus is in full swing. In the liver, the production of bile begins, which is necessary for the digestion of dietary fats in the extrauterine life of the child. The intestines begin the first peristaltic contractions, as if trying their hand.
The active development of the fetal brain continues, it already has an almost complete resemblance to the brains of an adult, only it differs greatly in size.
The weight of the fetus by the twelfth week of pregnancy is 13-14 grams, and its height from the crown to the sacrum is as much as 9 cm.
At 12 weeks of pregnancy, most women undergo an ultrasound procedure, where the baby can be examined. By this time, you can already see on the screen how he sucks his finger, capturing his mouth.
There are already red blood cells in the fetal blood, and the production of white blood cells called leukocytes begins. But so far they cannot protect a small organism from infections. The main protectors in the womb and for several months after birth will be antibodies received from the mother through blood and breast milk.
