Vernix and Protection

Baby is coated in a waxy protective layer called vernix. Sensory development is advancing rapidly this week.

This week's tip

💡 Moisturize your belly daily to soothe stretching skin — look for oils or creams with vitamin E, shea butter, or cocoa butter, and make it a calming bedtime ritual.

Baby this week

🥭

About the size of

a mango

Length

15.3 cm

Weight

240 g

Development

Vernix caseosa — a waxy, white coating — covers baby's skin to protect it from amniotic fluid.
The sensory areas of the brain are developing for taste, smell, hearing, sight, and touch.
Baby is swallowing more amniotic fluid and developing the digestive system.
Hair on the head may be visible on ultrasound.
Baby is sleeping and waking in cycles.

How you might feel

Round ligament pain may come and go.
Your growing uterus may be causing back aches.
You may notice the linea nigra (dark line down your belly).
Your skin may feel itchy as it stretches.

Things to do this week

Moisturize your belly to help with stretching skin
Continue gentle exercise — swimming and walking are excellent choices
Talk to your baby daily — their hearing is well developed
Begin researching childcare options if you plan to return to work

When to contact your care team

This is general guidance, not medical advice.

Contact your care team if itching is severe — particularly on the palms or soles of feet, which can be a sign of cholestasis.

Partner tip

Read aloud to the bump — books, poetry, anything. Baby recognizes voices and it's a meaningful ritual to start.