Up until now your baby’s liver and spleen have been producing blood cells but this job will now be taken over by the bone marrow. Your baby’s small intestine will now start to absorb small amounts of sugar from swallowed amniotic fluid.

Your baby’s development

Your baby now measures approximately 26cm long.

Their well-developed hearing means they can now hear you when you talk, sing and laugh.

Internally, your baby’s intestines are now able to absorb small amounts of sugars from the fluid they swallow. This is passed through the digestive system to their large bowel. At the same time, their kidneys are starting to process waste more efficiently.

Your Body

The weight of your uterus is now putting more pressure on your legs. Aches and pains are common, and many mums experience swollen calves and ankles as pregnancy progresses.

Here are some things you can try to help with these symptoms:

• Swollen feet – Try putting your feet up whenever you can.
• Back aches – Going for a light walk can often help.
• Leg cramps – Usually a result of dehydration, so ensure you’re getting enough liquids.

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Please note: These pregnancy week-by-week articles, are meant to give you a general sense of the growth and development going on within you. However, it’s important to remember that every baby develops differently, even during pregnancy.