Week 12

So, yesterday marked the beginning of week 12 (I'm 11 weeks 1 day). The baby is the size of a plum this week. (Like all the food references? That's the only references most websites and books use to relate the size of the baby. Guess we're all familiar with food, huh?)

The fetal digestive system is beginning to flex its digestive muscle - literally - as it starts practicing contraction movements, a skill the baby will need after birth to push food through the digestive tract. The pituitary gland at the base of the brain has started producing hormones. And the bone marrow is making white blood cells, which will one day help the baby fight infections.

The baby is also starting to explore his/her body, focusing most on touching his/her head, especially the face and mouth. The mouth will provide he/she with hours of entertainment. This happens not only because the baby is gaining coordination, but also because the baby's palms have gained sensation and can actually "feel" what it touches! The baby's smelling sensations will also begin developing this week along with maturing taste buds.