Week 9

Your Baby's Development
The tail at the bottom of your baby's spinal cord has shrunk and almost disappeared by this week. In contrast, your baby's head has been growing - it's quite large compared with the rest of the body and it curves onto the chest. By this week, your baby measures about 0.9 to 1.2 inches (22 to 30 millimeters) and weighs around 0.14 ounces (4 grams).

The digestive system continues to develop. The anus is formed, and the intestines are growing longer. In addition, internal reproductive features, such as testes and ovaries, form this week.

Your baby may make some first movements this week as his muscles develop. If you had an ultrasound now, those movements might even be visible, but you won't be able to feel them for several more weeks. Another thing the ultrasound or Doppler could detect? Your baby's heartbeat!

Your Body
In preparation for your first prenatal visit, take the time to familiarize yourself with your family's health history and to review your medical records. Have you had any chronic illnesses, allergies, or surgeries? Are you currently taking any prescription medications? Do you know of any genetic disorders that run in your family? Has your menstrual cycle been regular, and have you had any past pregnancies? Do you smoke or drink alcohol? What are your exercise habits? These are the things your health care provider will want to discuss with you, so it will help to have this information at your fingertips when you go.