Clover Genetics

Week 40 generally marks the final week of pregnancy with the start of labor looming over each day. Expecting parents can prepare by reviewing their birth plan and ensuring they feel confident that their providers and partner understand their needs. It is not uncommon for pregnancy to go slightly beyond week 40, but those over 10 days beyond their due date may need to have labor induced. This can be done with home remedies, physical stimulation by the physician, drugs, or sometimes a combination of things. The key thing this week is to communicate changes, trust your body, and feel confident in your birth plan (and back-up plans!).
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This is the final week of our and we are so thankful for our followers and content creators for their hard work in sharing this with our community! Please comment or reach out to us with any questions at [email protected]
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At 39 weeks, the full-term fetus can weigh up to 7 lbs. While in the womb, the parent transfers immune cells to the fetus through the bloodstream, passively giving them important cells of the immune system that defend against various infections, AKA antibodies. For parents who choose to and are able to breastfeed, antibodies continue to be passed through the breastmilk to the baby, further protecting the baby from infection.
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Approaching birth, a full-term fetus and newborn babies possess approximately 300 bones and cartilage components. However, these skeletal structures undergo fusion over time, gradually combining to form the 206 bones of the average adult human.

At some final fetal developments occur to prepare them for life outside the womb, all the while putting more physical pressure on the pregnant parent's internal organs. This can lead to GI symptoms: increased nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, and other discomforts. At this point in the pregnancy, labor would not be considered premature, but for most individuals, they will naturally begin the process of labor between their 39th and 40th week of pregnancy. However, everyone is different and depending on the pregnant parent and the health of the fetus, varying arrangements may be made with the physician to ensure a safe childbirth. Those with planned C-sections will begin preparing for the procedure next week and should ensure they know what to expect as far as the healing process. Those who surpass the 40 week mark without labor initiating naturally or others in high risk groups may need to have labor induced through one of many different methods. Swipe to read more and stick around for the final few weeks of our virtual pregnancy!
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With three weeks remaining until the standard 40-week pregnancy mark is met, the fetus is still hitting new milestones; particularly in its size and activities. Weighing around 6.5lbs, the fetus has begun developing suckling skills and may be seen sucking their thumbs or fingers on ultrasounds. For those with high-risk pregnancies, like those carrying twins, week 37 is a common time for labor to initiate. Having a trustworthy and communicative team of physicians and providers can assist and their families to understand what to expect as the time for labor approaches.
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Labor is quickly approaching and consequently, the fetus settles in the head down position in preparation for birth! If you recall from week 33 post, fetuses that do not move head down are called "breech" and at this point in the pregnancy, they may need to be manually turned through a procedure called an External Cephalic Version ( ). Under the guidance of a healthcare provider, delivery plans may need to be adjusted for those carrying fetuses in the breech position close to labor.
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Did you know that there can be complexities of depression for the pregnant parent during pregnancy? It extends beyond the occasional sadness, evolving into a serious mood disorder lasting weeks or months. Perinatal depression impacts about 1 in 10 pregnancies. Risk factors include a personal or family history of depression, trauma, or stress. Given the diverse manifestations and severity of depression, it’s crucial for expecting parents to seek professional help when symptoms arise. Early intervention is essential for the parent’s well-being and healthy fetal development. With the appropriate treatment, many can effectively manage perinatal depression and have a positive pregnancy experience. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and expecting parents are not alone in facing this challenge.
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With six weeks remaining in pregnancy, the average volume of amniotic fluid has increased each week of pregnancy, reaching its peak at 800-1,000mL. Remarkably, by the 34th week, the fetus can swallow and excrete up to one liter of amniotic fluid daily. Such intricate processes highlight the incredible journey of fetal development!
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The middle of the third trimester brings the fetus close to reaching its final body length in the womb. Now, fetal development is focused on adding fat stores, practicing movement, and positioning itself for labor.
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Vaginal deliveries may be performed with the pregnant parent in different positions, but when a fetus is in the breech position, vaginal birth becomes higher risk for the both of them. Vaginal breech deliveries may be possible, but if the fetus is not in position toward the end of the third trimester, a planned cesarean-section may be the safest recommendation. Rather than the fetus passing through the vaginal canal, this frequently performed surgical procedure allows the physician to lift the fetus from the womb after cutting through layers of the parent's abdominal tissues and uterus.

At week 32, the fetus is now undergoing some rapid and vital development to the lungs, brain, bones, and other areas. While the fetus is in this growth phase, the pregnant parent also experiences changes, both physical, emotional, and hormonal. Over the course of the pregnancy, the parent's blood volume has increased by 40-50% to help the fetus maintain its needs and also to create a reserve for any blood loss during labor. As the pregnancy rounds the corner to the final two months, the fetus may shift to a position where the pregnant parent's belly appears to shift from a higher position to a lower position. Swipe to learn more!
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A glimpse into fetal development at 31 weeks reveals significant brain and eye growth, accompanied by increased movement. During the seventh month, expecting parents may encounter a somewhat discomforting symptom known as Braxton Hicks Contractions (BHC). are uterine contractions that do not lead to childbirth but create a deceptive sense of actual labor. Unlike true labor contractions, BHCs exhibit irregular frequency, are less intense, and typically subside by adjusting one's position or engaging in different activities. Swipe right to delve deeper into this experience!
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Week 30 means that the pregnancy is now over three quarters of the way complete! During the final ten weeks of pregnancy, changes to the fetus's growing body continually impact the experience of the pregnant parent, which may bring additional symptoms that require physician-supported management. While some may experience few symptoms, others find that the growing weight and pressure of the enlarging fetus can cause significant discomfort. This is worth discussing with your physician! "Powering through" symptoms is not the answer-- don't be afraid to advocate for yourself during the final stages of your pregnancy to ensure you and the fetus are as comfortable as possible!
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Fetal development at the 29th week of pregnancy is marked by significant milestones of development in the brain and bones as the fetus overall continues to grow in size and weight.
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During pregnancy, the levels of the essential mineral iron in an individual’s blood are particularly important. One of iron’s roles is to support the production of red blood cells. The average pregnant person is recommended to consume 27 milligrams of iron daily to support the additional blood volume for the growing placenta and fetus.
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Iron deficiency can lead to iron deficient anemia, which affects 1 in 6 pregnancies. Physicians may recommend various treatments that could include consuming iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements, but any plans to adjust one’s diet or add supplementation should be discussed explicitly with a physician prior to initiating changes.
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At week 28 of gestation, the third and final trimester of pregnancy begins! Upon reaching this new milestone, the fetus begins to experience rapid eye movement (REM) sleep for the first time! The pregnant parent undergoes two vital screenings; one for blood glucose and one to check for the bacteria, Group B Streptococcus (GBS). The GBS culture screens for elevated GBS bacteria in the pregnant parent which could spread to the baby during labor. If elevated levels are detected, the parent will receive intravenous antibiotics during childbirth.
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As the second trimester ends, our virtual fetus resembles the size of a head of cauliflower, measuring approximately 14.5 inches in length!
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Hormonal changes during the second trimester can contribute to specific symptoms like round ligament pain and constipation. It's important to recognize that these hormonal shifts are crucial in promoting the baby's growth and further preparing the body for the upcoming labor.
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At week 26, the fetus develops air sacs in their lungs! These structures are necessary for inflation and deflation of the lungs. As for the pregnant parent, between weeks 24 and 28 are the recommended times to complete a blood glucose test to screen for gestational diabetes (GD), as up to 10% of pregnancies are affected by it. If the screening warrants follow-up testing, additional orders may accompany the initial results to confirm if any adjustments should be made to manage the pregnancy.
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During the 25th week of , the hair, skin, nails, and glands of the undergo significant development! scalps may develop noticeable thicker hair while the fine peach fuzz, lanugo, is well established over the rest of the fetal body. Simultaneously, the fetus is gaining more body fat, contributing to plumper skin with reduced wrinkles.
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We are ending Week 24 of our virtual pregnancy and some major changes are happening for both the pregnant parent and the fetus! Fetal proportions are starting to even out, but there's still a lot more development remaining. The continued growth of the brain, lungs, and amount of body fat gained are still critical to the health of the fetus before it reaches full viability.
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Week 23 of our virtual is coming to an end, which brings us closer to the end of the . Hematopoiesis is the body's process to produce red blood and plasma cells. By this time the fetal bone marrow has developed and the process of hematopoiesis relocates to the bone marrow permanently.
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: Recent advances in have improved medical care and management for babies. If born prematurely, the survival rates for those born after increases dramatically with intensive care.
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As we finish week 22, the virtual fetus has met a significant milestone! Fetal weight has generally reached one pound, surpassing that of the placenta! Plus, a stethoscope can now detect their heartbeat.
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Within the womb, the auditory senses of the fetus begin to hear muffled sounds through still-developing ears and the barrier of amniotic fluid.
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In the 21st week of pregnancy, a fetus develops a layer of soft colorless hair called . Lanugo protects the skin, helping to stick to it, and insulates body heat. : Vernix is a waxy, cheese-like substance that protects the skin from .
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By this stage, fetal weight has likely surpassed placental weight. As described in Week 14, the functions as a "pantry" through providing nutrients to the developing fetus while simultaneously removing excreted waste and acting as a waste disposal system. The placenta will continue to grow with the fetus throughout the pregnancy!
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This year, Clover Genetics has been sharing about the development of a fetus from fertilization onward. In this part of the series, former intern and KGI Genetic Counseling student shares her personal experience with , , and . Read more about Orin’s journey by visiting our blog at clovergenetics.com/blog/ivf
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Week 20 is our halfway point for a full 40 week pregnancy. This fetus has grown remarkably since gestation and is now about the size of a banana!
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At 20 weeks, prospective parents generally undergo an ultrasound scan to get a better glimpse of the growing fetus. Also referred to as an anatomy scan, this detailed test uses the images generated to estimate the fetal size and position.
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Our virtual fetus is becoming more and more active. At 19 weeks, the fetus is as big as a mango! Take a glance at the exciting fetal developments for this week:
🍀The fetus is developing their five senses: vision, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.
🍀Their fingerprints have formed.
🍀The reproductive system is already established.
🍀A thick waxy substance called vernix caseosa coats the skin.
🍀 : Vernix caseosa is a protective layer that helps prevent the fetus’s skin from abrasions and the surrounding amniotic fluid. This cheese-like substance is made up of water, fatty acids, and proteins. Vernix caseosa also acts as a lubricant and antimicrobial agent to help the baby slide out of the vaginal canal.
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During weeks 17 through 18, our virtual fetus is growing at a rapid pace! The fetal weight and size have doubled in the past two weeks. Around this time, the fetus also develops a layer of fat tissue called adipose. Adipose helps the fetus gain weight and regulate its temperature and metabolism.
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: Expecting parents can anticipate a normal weight gain during pregnancy as the fetus grows. In general, people gain about 1-2 pounds per week in the second trimester. The total weight gain during pregnancy depends on many factors, including a person's pre-pregnancy weight.
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The earliest point in pregnancy that pregnant individuals begin to feel their babies move, known as , can begin at week 16. The initial sensations of fetal movement are like soft fluttering, tiny pulses, or bubbles popping!
While quickening typically occurs between weeks 16-24, the timing can vary from one pregnancy to another. Some individuals may feel it earlier, while others may feel it later. If a prospective parent has not experienced quickening yet, it does not necessarily indicate something's wrong. Contact a healthcare provider to address any questions on fetal movement.🍀
: The concept of "quickening" traces back to , a Greek philosopher. The root word of quickening (quick) means "to bring something alive." Aristotle believed a fetus was not alive until quickened and once it did, it had become a "human with a soul." 🍀

At Week 15 of pregnancy, the pregnant individual is nearly three and a half months through pregnancy. Only five more months until the due date! The fetus continues to develop features such as s*x organs, fingernails, toenails, skin, hair, and the skeletal system.
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Did you know bleeding and swollen gums are a symptom of pregnancy?
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Changes in hormone production during pregnancy can make the gums more susceptible to plaque and gingivitis, known as inflammation of the gums. Plaque buildup is the primary cause of bleeding and swollen gums and the most effective way of treating swollen gums is practicing routine oral hygiene.

Week 14 marks the start of the 2nd trimester! 🎉About now, our virtual fetus’s liver, kidneys, digestive system, and lungs are all developing and the pregnant parent may begin to feel more symptoms. : The only temporary organ in the human body is the placenta! The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, typically beginning to develop shortly after conception.
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The fetus is connected to the placenta via the umbilical cord so that the placenta can supply energy, nutrients, and oxygen to the fetus through the umbilical cord. Plus, the placenta can also filter the waste products and carbon dioxide from the fetal blood.
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It's Week 13 of Growing a Baby with Clover Genetics!
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If you were wondering... "do unborn babies p*e inside the womb?" 😳 The simple answer is YES. While the fetus can p*e as early as week 8, urine production really increases in weeks 13-16 after the kidneys have further developed. The fetus swallows fluid from the amniotic sac, which is the water-filled sac surrounding it during pregnancy. The fluid is repeatedly swallowed, digested, filtered by the kidneys, and excreted as urine. As the fetus swallows the fluid, they also produce a thick, sticky substance called meconium-- which is the first p**p passed by the baby after birth or while in the womb. 💩 Stay tuned for next's week Embryology Primer!
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New blog alert! In this blog, Megan provides an overview of twelve different books written by different disabled authors. In doing so, she highlights a variety of books that can be enjoyed by children, adolescents, and adults alike. If you're looking to add some new books to your, or your child's reading list, visit clovergenetics.com/blog to read more!