25th Weeks of My Development

The cortex (outer layer) of my brain is developing into layers, paving the way for sophisticated brain activity like thinking, feeling and planning in years to come. My eyes are fully functional, and I may blink as a reflex reaction to a loud or sudden noise. (Studies have also shown that an unborn baby will turn her head if a light is shone onto the mum's abdomen, proving that her optic nerve is now working.)

My lungs are maturing by the day and I am making breathing motions, although if I was born before 37 weeks, it's likely I need help to breathe. My sense of smell is developing, too – one study showed that babies whose mums ate lots of garlic responded more strongly to the smell after the birth. Tiny blood vessels called capillaries are now developing beneath the surface of my skin, which will give my skin its pink colour.

Head to heels, I am now measures about 13 1/2 inches. My weight — a pound and a half — I am beginning to exchange my long, lean look for some baby fat. As I does, my wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and I'll start to look more and more like a newborn. I am also growing more hair — and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.

Did you know that scans at this stage have shown that babies appear to smile and cry in the womb, although the jury's out on whether these are genuine expressions of emotion or just instinctive muscle movements. Amazing!!!

Friends, see you soon!!!

P.S.

Only 2 weeks left before the 3rd pace of my development begins.

What to expect: Mom and Dad will be attending "Parenting 101" this coming week, I'll be glad to share it with you.

Image from: http://www.babycenter.com/fetal-development-images-25-weeks