When babies are in the womb, they’re engaged in a fascinating practice: breathing, although not in the way we typically think. You might have noticed your baby’s chest moving during an ultrasound, which is intriguing and raises questions about how they breathe before birth.
While babies are submerged in amniotic fluid and receive oxygen through the umbilical cord, they aren’t actually breathing air. Dr. Jamie Carter, a board-certified ob-gyn, explains that instead, they are practicing their breathing movements, which is a positive sign of well-being. “Fetuses who don’t engage in this practice may indicate some health concerns,” she notes.
Fetal Lung Development
Lung development starts shortly after conception, with lung buds emerging first. By about 16 weeks, the airways begin to form, and by 27 weeks, the production of surfactants occurs, preventing the air sacs from collapsing, as Dr. Lisa Green, an obstetrician at Riverside Medical Center, describes. By 28 weeks, the lungs are mostly developed, and by 37 weeks, they are fully ready for the baby’s first breath after birth.
Do Babies Breathe in the Womb?
It’s a “no” when it comes to traditional breathing. Breathing typically involves exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, which doesn’t happen until after birth. However, babies do exhibit rhythmic movements of the diaphragm, which Dr. Emily Tran, an expert in maternal-fetal medicine, characterizes as “breathing movements that circulate amniotic fluid in the womb.”
So why are these movements essential if they’re not breathing in air? According to Dr. Mark Davis, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, these movements help:
- Train the muscles related to breathing
- Expel excess fluid produced during lung development
- Assist the circulatory system in moving blood throughout the body
In essence, your baby is diligently practicing for their big debut!
When Do Babies Start Breathing in the Womb?
These rhythmic diaphragm movements typically begin around the 10th week of pregnancy and continue to develop throughout the gestation period. If you’re interested in learning more about pregnancy milestones, check out this blog post.
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Summary
In summary, while babies in the womb don’t breathe in the same way we do, they engage in essential practice movements that prepare their lungs for life after birth. These movements are vital for their development, ensuring they’re ready for the first breath once they arrive in the world.
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