Pregnancy Fourth Month: Symptoms, Baby Development, Tests & Care

The fourth month commonly refers to around weeks 13 to 16, but month boundaries vary. Plan care using your recorded gestational age in weeks and days.

Bones continue hardening, the neck becomes more defined, the lower limbs develop further, toenails form, the structures involved in hearing continue developing and lung tissue continues forming.

Nausea and fatigue may improve, while appetite and energy may increase. Constipation, bloating, headaches, breast changes, skin pigmentation and mild stretching discomfort can also occur.

First movements are commonly noticed between 16 and 24 weeks, sometimes after 20 weeks in a first pregnancy. If none have been felt by 24 weeks, contact your maternity team. Once movements are familiar, a reduction or change needs immediate advice.

Testing depends on gestational age, previous results and medical history. Your clinician may discuss genetic screening, blood tests and upcoming second-trimester ultrasound.

Nuchal translucency screening is generally performed during the late first-trimester window, commonly around 11 to 14 weeks, rather than throughout the fourth month.

Amniocentesis is usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks when clinically indicated. It is a diagnostic test and is not routinely required for every pregnancy.

Aim for a varied diet containing protein, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, calcium-rich foods and iron-rich foods. Continue prescribed prenatal supplements and choose pasteurized and properly cooked foods.

Avoid alcohol and tobacco, raw or undercooked animal foods and unpasteurized products. Discuss caffeine limits, supplements and herbal products with your clinician.

For many uncomplicated pregnancies, moderate activity such as walking is appropriate. Exercise should be individualized when pregnancy complications or restrictions are present.

Comfort and individual circumstances matter at this stage. As pregnancy advances, your clinician can advise on sleep positioning. There is no need to force a particular position simply because you are four months pregnant.

Mild intermittent stretching or pulling discomfort can occur as the uterus enlarges. Severe, persistent or worsening pain, especially with bleeding, fever or fluid leakage, needs prompt medical assessment.

Yes. Some people improve as the second trimester approaches, while others continue to have nausea. Persistent vomiting with difficulty keeping fluids down should be discussed with your clinician.

There is no single appropriate amount for everyone. Recommended pregnancy weight gain depends on pre-pregnancy BMI, whether the pregnancy is singleton or multiple, and individual medical factors.

The second-trimester ultrasound for fetal structural assessment is ideally performed around 18 to 22 weeks. Ask your obstetrician when to schedule it.

No. An anatomy scan checks fetal structures and development, but it cannot identify every condition. Your obstetrician will explain the findings, limitations and any follow-up required.

Seek prompt medical assessment for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal or pelvic pain, fluid leakage, fever, fainting, severe dizziness, persistent vomiting with dehydration or another sudden concerning symptom.

Keep scheduled antenatal visits, take prescribed supplements, maintain a balanced diet, stay appropriately active, avoid alcohol and tobacco, use medicines only after medical advice and plan upcoming screening with your obstetrician.