The first 1000 days
270 days
365 days
365 days
The right start during these precious 1000 days begins with nutrition. All the important nutrients we get early in life are fundamental to our growth, our brain and vision development and the strength of our immune system. It is a period of enormous potential; from maternal health and nutrition during pregnancy to good infant and child nutrition after birth. Adequate nutrition during these first 1000 days is vital for lifelong health and minimises the risk of developing diseases later in life too.
Pregnancy: 270 days = 3 trimesters
A pregnancy lasts an average of 40 weeks (270 days). This is divided into three pregnancy trimesters. Every trimester lasts about 3 months.
week 1 to 12
week 13 to 26
week 27 to delivery
First trimester
In the first 12 weeks, the fertilised egg grows into a foetus. All the major organs and body systems are already in place and now they need to grow healthily. Thanks to very small muscles your baby continues to improve mobility.
You may suffer from pregnancy ailments caused by a changing balance of hormones but these usually disappear gradually. Morning sickness is one of the most common symptoms shared by expectant women all over the world. It is often the first sign that women look for when they suspect they are pregnant. Eating regular small meals, avoiding fatty and spicy foods, and eating small snacks such as crackers and fruit can help reduce nausea. Your midwife can help you with this.
By the end of this first trimester, your baby is fully formed. He or she has arms, hands, fingers, feet, and toes – even the teeth are starting to form!
Second trimester
Your baby continues to grow and develop rapidly during this stage. You are likely to feel little kicks and punches or maybe butterfly-like movements. Most mothers would agree that the second trimester is the most enjoyable of the three stages of pregnancy. You can expect the pregnancy ailments that plagued you during the first trimester to disappear gradually. Your belly has grown so fast that you really look pregnant.
Your baby's brain grows at an amazingly rapid rate. By the start of this trimester, all of the major structures of the brain are in place and functioning. From this point forward, the brain and major organs continue to develop and mature.
Third trimester
Your baby is rapidly growing and putting on weight. The foetus will grow and gain weight throughout your entire pregnancy, but will increase about four-fold in size during this last trimester. Your little one really looks like a baby now and also behaves like one. Your baby’s brain will grow faster than ever; bones are hardening, the senses are becoming increasingly sophisticated and it's time to practise breathing!
Most women give birth between week 37 and week 42. The average birth weight of a European baby is 3.5 kilograms, with a height between 46 and 54 cm. At the end of this trimester you can finally hold your baby in your arms.