Pregnancy is a happy & exciting time full of rapid changes. The growth and development of both baby and child take place through the pregnancy period.
While the growth outside is clearly visible, it’s development happening inside that’s truly enthralling. It’s obvious for a woman (who just got pregnant) to wonder about all that’s happening with her baby inside her.
Brain development process of your fetal generally begins around the 5th week of pregnancy. But it’s after the 6th month that the brain separates into 3 parts.
First trimester
It’s during the first trimester of pregnancy (8th week) that the face and brain start developing. Once the neural tube closes, it curves to form three sections of the brain:
- Forebrain
- Midbrain
- Hindbrain
Later these areas will form 5 different parts of the baby’s brain:
- Cerebrum
- Cerebellum
- Brain stem
- Pituitary gland
- Hypothalamus
By the 10th week, baby’s head will turn to become more round & form half of its shape by the 11th week. Though the development of the brain starts at a very early stage, it’s not until the 6th week that any electrical activity takes place.
Second trimester
It’s during the second trimester that the baby’s mind starts to take control of bodily functions. These functions mainly include swallowing & sucking impulses.
This natural swallowing impulse causes the baby to swallow a significant amount of amniotic acid. Experts say amniotic acid protects the baby from infections & temperature.
Don’t be surprised if you experience some kicking as it’s highly expected during the second trimester. Also, babies start to practice breathing movements as the brain starts to direct diaphragm and chest to contract.
Third trimester
The third trimester of pregnancy is the time of rapid growth and development of the baby’s brain. Though the development of a baby’s brain continues even after birth, it forms the structure of a healthy mind inside the womb.
Baby almost triples its weight during this trimester. Development of neurons & wiring also takes place.
Cerebellum development is a crucial aspect that occurs rapidly allowing the baby to practice kicking, punching, wiggling, stretching, etc.
How to support baby’s brain development?
- Eat healthily
The food you consume determines the growth of your baby’s brain. When you eat healthy food, drink pure water, and take essential vitamins, you are providing vital nourishment to your baby’s brain development.
You can consult with an obstetrician in regards to the choline supplements. Before you decide to make any modification in your diet or vitamins, do consult with a doctor.
- Plenty of exercises
Regular exercise during the pregnancy is considered to be helpful for both the mother & the baby. Typically, walking, aerobics, and prenatal yoga are considered safe, yet don’t overdo it. It’s advisable to consult with your doctor for a suitable exercise regimen.
- Avoid smoking & drinking
Drinking or smoking during pregnancy can lead to hazardous effects. It can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome and interfere in a baby’s brain cell development.
Some major effects of drinking during pregnancy are:
- Lower IQ
- Poor cognition skills
- Impulsive behavior
- Poor coordination
Moreover, smoking causes constriction of blood vessels and reduces the flow of nutrition to your baby.
- Manage stress
Various researches prove that expressing stress during pregnancy can have adverse effects on fetal mental health.
Try to keep away from every kind of stress, reduce work-load & perform various relaxation techniques.
Conclusion
The best thing you can do to support the brain development of your child is to live a healthy and stress-free life.
Brain development of the fetus starts even before you realize it. Therefore, experts advise taking prenatal vitamins that are rich in folic acid. Do follow precautious measures and consult with your doctor regarding any doubt about pregnancy or child’s development.