The fetus in the 17th and 18th week
During these weeks of pregnancy the fetus has a vertex-sacrum length (cephalo-rachidian length, CRL) of about 14-15 cm.
The fetus in weeks 19 and 20
- At this stage the fetus has a CRL length of about 16 cm.
- A fine, soft, usually non-pigmented hair (called lanugo) covers his body.
- Its skin is also covered with caseous varnish, a greasy material that protects it.
- In a biologically female fetus, a uterus is formed.
Symptoms of pregnancy during the 5th month
Pregnant women usually feel fetal movements for the first time during the fifth month of pregnancy.
They may seem fluttering, or butterflies in the stomach.
The symptoms of the fourth month of pregnancy continue into this month.
Heartburn, constipation, breast changes, dizziness, shortness of breath, nosebleeds and bleeding gums, are common.
Your breasts may be up to 2 sizes larger than ‘normal’.
Katherine Johnson, M.D., is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist with clinical expertise in general obstetrics and gynecology, family planning, women’s health, and gynecology.
She is affiliated with the Obstetrics and Gynecology division at an undisclosed healthcare institution and the online platform, Maternicity.com.