By the end of the sixth month, your baby will measure over 12 inches in length and weigh between 1.5 and 2 pounds. The eyes can now open, close, squint, and even react to light. The baby can now hear sounds inside of you and may begin to suck his thumb. Vocal chords are functioning, eyebrows are now forming, and fetal activity is becoming more constant and coordinated. The body is almost fully formed at this point; however, the lungs and other organs are not quite developed and will not be for some time.

This is quite an exciting month in your pregnancy! For many women, this is the first month that you feel your baby move inside you. As the month progresses, you will notice an increase in fetal movement, as the baby becomes more active. You may experience any of the following physical symptoms: aches in the lower abdomen (caused by the stretching of the ligaments that support the uterus); a white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea); heartburn and indigestion; constipation and bloating; bleeding gums; leg cramps; varicose veins; hemorrhoids; backache; skin pigmentation changes; and enlarged breasts. You may experience shortness of breath as your baby grows and pushes against your ribcage. Your appetite should be very healthy, nausea should be less common, and the need to urinate should be less frequent. You may also begin to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which will prepare you for labor. Stretch marks may appear on your belly, legs, and breasts

Emotionally, you may find that your mood swings are decreasing and your absentmindedness is continuing. You may also begin to experience boredom with your pregnancy and anxiety of the months to come.

At this point, Dad is probably feeling anxious too. It is important for the two of you to discuss your concerns and share your feelings about becoming parents. Encourage him to feel the baby moving inside of you. Make sure to include Dad in making decisions as much as possible, i.e. take him along when shopping for the baby bedding set and continually ask his opinion. Also, it is recommended that both of you attend birthing and parenting classes together.

At your six month checkup, you can expect your doctor to check the following: weight, blood pressure, urine, fetal heart tones, height of fundus, size of the uterus, and the position and size of the fetus. You will also be given a glucose test to check for gestational diabetes sometime between 24 and 28 weeks. This non-invasive test involves drinking a sugary beverage and then having your blood drawn one hour after. If your glucose level comes out abnormal, you will be required to take a second, more extensive glucose test that involves fasting overnight.