For a woman, pregnancy is an inevitable journey, and expectant mothers are truly beautiful. After becoming pregnant, the most common concerns are: What are the symptoms of pregnancy? What should be noted during pregnancy? In fact, when mothers reach this stage, they often feel relieved to have passed the critical first trimester and entered a safer period. At this point, mothers begin to enjoy feeling their baby's movements. But what should be noted during the fourth month of pregnancy? Let's explore the details below.
Discover the Symptoms of the Fourth Month of Pregnancy (Public Health Network)
During the fourth month, the fetus grows rapidly! Its length may increase from 10cm to 16cm, expanding at an astonishing pace. Weighing approximately 110g, the eyes—previously positioned toward the sides—begin to converge forward, making the baby look even more adorable! The fetal skeleton is now largely composed of rubber-like cartilage, gradually hardening.
If your baby is a girl, her vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes are all in place. For boys, the genitals are clearly visible. The brain begins dividing into specialized regions for developing smell, taste, hearing, sight, and touch. The fetal retina also starts forming.Your baby is now a fully formed little person!
Fetal Measurements
Length: 10–18 cm (4–7 inches) Weight: 40–160 grams (1.4–5.5 ounces)
Fetal Development Notes:
Week 13 Fetal Development Week 14 Fetal Development Week 15 Fetal Development Week 16 Fetal Development.The fetus's body is rapidly maturing. The umbilical cord connecting the abdomen to the mother begins to form, enabling the exchange of nutrients and metabolic waste. Facial Features The head gradually straightens. The face takes on human contours and shape, covered with a fine layer of lanugo (fetal hair), and hair begins to grow.The jawbone, cheekbones, and nasal bridge are developing, while the outer ear elongates. Twenty milk teeth rapidly emerge.
Limbs
Muscles and bones continue to develop, allowing the baby to move its hands and feet slightly.
Organs
The spine, liver, and kidneys are all "taking their places," and the skin gradually thickens, losing its transparency.The auditory system is largely complete, and the fetus begins responding to sound stimuli.
Fetal Movements
The fetus is still weak and small, so the mother may not yet feel distinct movements. When movements occur, you might feel a sensation similar to gastrointestinal contractions after drinking a beverage. Note the time of your first fetal movements and share this information with your doctor during your next prenatal visit.
Maternal Indicators
Weight
Appetite increases, and weight loss gradually reverses.
Pregnancy Physiology Note:
Miscarriage risk significantly decreases this month as the placenta is fully formed. However, expectant mothers must ensure adequate nutrition to support the rapidly growing fetus.
Physical Changes: Vaginal Discharge
Increased vaginal discharge ("leucorrhea") is a natural secretion from the vagina and cervix. Normal discharge should be white, thin, and odorless. Consult your doctor if discharge becomes excessive or exhibits abnormal color/consistency.
Frequent Urination and Urgency
The enlarging uterus begins to press on the bladder and rectum located in front and behind it, reducing bladder capacity. This results in shorter intervals between urination, increased frequency, and a persistent feeling of incomplete emptying, causing expectant mothers to frequently seek the restroom. Avoid deliberately limiting fluid intake or holding urine to prevent urinary tract infections. However, this month may see a slight decrease in urinary frequency.
Uterine Changes
Your uterus has enlarged, causing your abdomen to protrude noticeably—you now have the distinct appearance of a pregnant woman.
Breast Changes
You may feel your breasts enlarging, with darkening around the nipples and more defined areolas.Your nipples may now produce a small amount of milk, resembling the colostrum secreted shortly after childbirth.
Pregnancy Symptoms
Morning sickness naturally subsides, leaving expectant mothers feeling more physically and emotionally comfortable.
What are the symptoms during the fourth month of pregnancy?
1. Morning sickness naturally subsides. Starting in the fourth month, most pregnant women experience a natural disappearance of morning sickness, leading to improved physical and emotional well-being.
2. Appetite increases, and weight gradually recovers.
3. Vaginal discharge ("leucorrhea") increases. This is a secretion from the vagina and cervix. Normal discharge should be white, thin, and odorless. If the amount increases significantly or the color/consistency changes abnormally, consult a doctor.
4. The enlarging uterus begins to press on the bladder and rectum located in front and behind it. Bladder capacity decreases, leading to shorter intervals between urination, increased frequency, and a persistent feeling of incomplete emptying. Do not deliberately avoid drinking water or hold urine, as this may cause urinary tract infections.
5. By the fourth month of pregnancy, the enlarged uterus causes the abdomen to protrude, making the pregnant appearance noticeable. The expectant mother may feel breast enlargement, darkening of the areola, and increased nipple definition. Milk may be expressed from the nipples, resembling the colostrum secreted immediately after childbirth.
What should you pay attention to during the fourth month of pregnancy?
1. During the fourth month, expectant mothers tend to sweat more and experience increased secretions, making them more susceptible to bacterial infections. Shower daily and change underwear frequently.
2. Pregnancy anemia may occur during the fourth month, making iron supplementation particularly important. Focus on nutritional intake—carry snacks to the office or eat more fruits.
3. Within another month, regular clothing will no longer fit. Prepare larger, loose-fitting undergarments while still comfortable—these are essential pregnancy essentials.
4. Thoroughly research pregnancy and childbirth to alleviate anxieties and fears, facilitating a smoother delivery.