4th Month Pregnancy: Symptoms, Baby Development & What to Expect
The 4th month pregnancy marks the beginning of an exciting new phase. As you enter the second trimester, many of the uncomfortable symptoms of early pregnancy may start to ease, and you may finally begin feeling more energetic. Your growing baby is becoming more active, developing stronger muscles, facial expressions, and tiny fingerprints while your baby bump gradually becomes more noticeable.
During pregnancy weeks 13 to 16, your baby's organs continue maturing, bones become stronger, and the placenta takes over many of the important functions needed to support your baby's growth. Although every pregnancy is different, this month often feels more comfortable for many expectant mothers.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), continuing prenatal care, eating a balanced diet, and taking daily prenatal vitamins with folic acid remain essential throughout pregnancy to support healthy fetal development.
In this complete guide, you'll learn everything about 4th month pregnancy symptoms, baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy, body changes, pregnancy care, diet, precautions, healthy habits, and what to expect as you move further into your second trimester.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
4th Month Pregnancy at a Glance
Key Takeaways
The 4th month pregnancy covers pregnancy weeks 13 to 16 and marks the beginning of the second trimester.
Many women notice that 4th month pregnancy symptoms like nausea and fatigue begin to improve.
Baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy includes stronger bones, facial expressions, fingerprints, and active limb movements.
Some mothers may begin feeling their baby's first fluttering movements, known as quickening.
Your uterus continues expanding, making your baby bump more visible.
Eating a healthy 4th month pregnancy diet rich in protein, calcium, iron, folate, and healthy fats supports your baby's rapid growth.
Continue taking prenatal vitamins, staying active, and attending regular prenatal appointments.
Although the risk of miscarriage is much lower during the second trimester, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fluid leakage should always be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
Common 4th Month Pregnancy Symptoms
During the 4th month of pregnancy, many women feel more energetic, while new symptoms like a growing baby bump, round ligament pain, increased appetite, and occasional baby movements may begin.
Common Symptoms at a Glance
Let's discuss these 4th month pregnancy symptoms in detail.
Increased Energy During the 4th Month Pregnancy
One of the biggest changes during the 4th month of pregnancy is that many women begin feeling less tired. As hormone levels stabilize, you may notice improved energy, better sleep, and an overall sense of well-being.
Even though you feel better, your body is still working hard to support your growing baby. Continue getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying hydrated.
Growing Baby Bump at 4 Months Pregnant
By the 4th month of pregnancy, your uterus has grown above the pelvic bone, making your baby bump more noticeable.
Some women begin wearing maternity clothes around this stage, while others may still have a smaller bump. Every pregnancy develops differently, so the size of your bump doesn't always reflect your baby's growth.
Round Ligament Pain During the Fourth Month Pregnancy
As your uterus expands, the ligaments supporting it stretch, causing brief sharp or pulling pain on one or both sides of your lower abdomen.
Round ligament pain usually lasts only a few seconds and often occurs when changing positions, standing up quickly, coughing, or laughing.
Increased Appetite During 4th Month Pregnancy
Many women notice that their appetite returns after the first trimester. As morning sickness improves, your body naturally needs more nutrients to support baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy.
Choose nutrient-rich meals instead of simply eating larger portions. Protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and healthy fats provide essential nutrients for your growing baby.
Mild Back Pain at 4 Months Pregnant
As your abdomen grows, your posture changes and your lower back works harder to support your body's changing center of gravity.
Wearing supportive footwear, maintaining good posture, and performing gentle prenatal stretches may help relieve mild back discomfort.
Breast Changes During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Your breasts continue preparing for breastfeeding throughout the 4th month pregnancy.
You may notice:
Fuller breasts
Darker nipples
More visible veins
Increased sensitivity
Occasional leakage of colostrum later in pregnancy
A well-fitting supportive bra can improve comfort during this stage.
Nasal Congestion During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Increased blood flow and pregnancy hormones can cause swelling inside the nasal passages, leading to a stuffy nose. Staying hydrated, using a humidifier, or a saline nasal spray (if approved by your healthcare provider) may help relieve congestion.
Pregnancy hormones relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, allowing stomach acid to move upward.
Heartburn becomes more common as your uterus grows and places additional pressure on your stomach.
Eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy foods, and not lying down immediately after eating may help reduce discomfort.
Constipation During the Fourth Month of Pregnancy
Progesterone slows digestion, making constipation a common symptom throughout pregnancy.
To support healthy digestion:
Eat high-fiber foods
Drink plenty of water
Stay physically active
Include fruits and vegetables in your daily diet
Speak with your healthcare provider before taking any laxatives.
Nasal Congestion During Pregnancy
Many women experience a stuffy nose during the 4th month of pregnancy because increased blood flow causes swelling inside the nasal passages.
Using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and saline nasal sprays approved by your healthcare provider may help relieve symptoms.
Skin Changes During the 4th Month Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones can cause noticeable skin changes during the second trimester.
You may notice:
Darkening of the nipples
A dark line called the linea nigra
Mild pigmentation on the face (melasma)
A healthy pregnancy glow due to increased blood circulation
These changes are usually temporary and often fade after delivery.
Also Read: 5th of Pregnancy Symptoms: What To Expect and Baby Development?
Can You Feel Baby Movement in the 4th Month?
Yes, some women begin feeling baby movements during the 4th month of pregnancy, especially between weeks 16 and 20. These first movements, known as quickening, often feel like gentle flutters, bubbles, or tiny taps inside the abdomen.
First-time mothers may notice these movements slightly later, while women who have been pregnant before may recognize them earlier.
💡 Did You Know?
One of the most exciting milestones of the 4th month of pregnancy is that your baby begins making facial expressions, sucking movements, and active kicks—even if you can't feel all of them yet. Tiny fingerprints are also forming during this stage, making your baby's fingerprints unique for life.
Also Read: Is Feeling Cold a Sign of Pregnancy? Causes, Signs and What It Means?
Emotional Changes During the Fourth Month of Pregnancy
The 4th month of pregnancy often brings greater emotional stability, although excitement, anxiety, and mood changes are still completely normal as your pregnancy progresses.
As you enter the second trimester, many women begin feeling more confident because the risk of miscarriage has significantly decreased and early pregnancy symptoms often improve. At the same time, preparing for parenthood and watching your body change can bring a wide range of emotions.
You may experience:
Excitement about your growing baby
Relief as nausea begins improving
Increased confidence after entering the second trimester
Anxiety before prenatal checkups or anatomy scans
Mood swings caused by ongoing hormonal changes
Growing emotional attachment to your baby
Curiosity about feeling your baby's first movements
Occasional worries about labor, parenting, or your baby's health
These emotional changes are a natural part of the fourth month pregnancy journey. Talking openly with your partner, family members, trusted friends, or healthcare provider can provide reassurance and emotional support throughout this exciting stage.
What Happens During the 4th Month of Pregnancy?
During the 4th month of pregnancy, your baby grows rapidly, major organs continue maturing, and your body enters the more comfortable second trimester. Your baby bump becomes more visible, and you may even feel your baby's first movements.
The 4th month of pregnancy is an exciting milestone because it marks the beginning of the second trimester, often called the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy. Between pregnancy weeks 13 to 16, your baby's body becomes more proportionate, bones become stronger, facial muscles develop, and tiny movements become more coordinated.
At the same time, your body continues adapting to support your growing baby. The placenta is now fully functioning, delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products. Many women notice that morning sickness and extreme fatigue begin to improve, allowing them to enjoy pregnancy more comfortably.
Changes in the Mother's Body During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Your body changes noticeably during the 4th month of pregnancy as the uterus grows, hormones stabilize, and your baby bump becomes more visible.
Although every pregnancy is unique, several physical changes are common during this stage.
You may notice:
A visible baby bump
Increased appetite
Reduced morning sickness
Higher energy levels
Mild back pain
Round ligament pain
Breast enlargement
Increased vaginal discharge
Darkening of the skin (linea nigra or melasma)
Occasional headaches or dizziness
Feeling your baby's first fluttering movements (quickening)
By the end of the 4th month pregnancy, your uterus is about the size of a melon and has risen well above the pelvic bone. As your abdomen expands, your center of gravity shifts, making good posture and supportive footwear increasingly important.
Weight gain also becomes more noticeable during this month. Most women gain around 1 to 2 pounds (0.5–1 kg) per week during the second trimester, although healthy weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy BMI and your healthcare provider's recommendations.
Changes in Your Growing Baby During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy becomes more remarkable as bones strengthen, facial expressions appear, muscles grow stronger, and the baby becomes much more active inside the womb.
Between pregnancy weeks 13 and 16, your baby experiences rapid growth. Although still small enough to fit comfortably inside the uterus, your baby's body is becoming stronger and more coordinated every day.
By the end of the 4th month of pregnancy, your baby has reached several exciting developmental milestones.
Your baby now has:
Stronger bones and joints
Fully formed fingers and toes
Unique fingerprints
Developing eyebrows and eyelashes
Facial muscles capable of making expressions
Arms and legs that move freely
A rapidly developing nervous system
Working kidneys that begin producing urine
A functioning digestive system
External ears in their proper position
The placenta continues providing nutrients, oxygen, and immune support while producing hormones that help maintain a healthy pregnancy.
Baby Development During the 4th Month of Pregnancy (Weeks 13–16)
Baby development during the 4th month of pregnancy includes rapid growth of bones, muscles, facial features, and internal organs, while your baby becomes increasingly active inside the womb.
During pregnancy weeks 13 to 16, your baby grows almost twice as long as in the previous month. Body proportions become more balanced, movements become smoother, and many organs begin working together.
Let's explore these amazing developmental milestones.
Bones Become Stronger
One of the biggest milestones in baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy is the hardening of your baby's skeleton.
Soft cartilage gradually changes into bone through a process called ossification. Calcium and vitamin D play an important role during this stage, making a healthy 4th month pregnancy diet especially important.
Although the bones continue developing throughout pregnancy, they become noticeably stronger during the second trimester.
Baby Begins Making Coordinated Movements
Your baby becomes much more active during the 4th month pregnancy.
Inside the womb, your baby can:
Stretch
Kick
Bend arms and legs
Roll
Open and close tiny hands
Move the head
Although many of these movements are still too gentle to notice, some mothers—especially those who have been pregnant before—may begin feeling small fluttering sensations.
Facial Features Become More Defined
Your baby's face becomes increasingly recognizable during the 4th month of pregnancy.
Several facial features continue developing, including:
Eyebrows
Eyelashes
Nose
Lips
Chin
External ears
The facial muscles also develop, allowing your baby to yawn, frown, squint, and even make sucking movements.
Fingerprints Form
One fascinating milestone during baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy is the formation of fingerprints.
Tiny ridges develop on your baby's fingers and toes, creating a unique fingerprint pattern that remains unchanged throughout life.
Hair Begins to Grow
Fine hair begins appearing on your baby's scalp during the 4th month of pregnancy.
Lanugo, a soft layer of fine hair, also starts covering your baby's body. This delicate hair helps protect the skin and usually disappears before or shortly after birth.
The Nervous System Continues Developing
Your baby's brain continues growing rapidly throughout the 4th month pregnancy.
Millions of nerve cells form new connections that help coordinate movement, reflexes, and future learning.
As the nervous system matures, your baby's movements become smoother and more purposeful.
The Heart Works Harder
Your baby's heart is now fully developed structurally and continues pumping blood efficiently throughout the body.
At this stage, the heart beats approximately 120 to 160 times per minute, which is much faster than an adult's heartbeat.
During prenatal visits, your healthcare provider may monitor your baby's heartbeat using a Doppler device.
The Placenta Fully Supports Your Baby
By the 4th month of pregnancy, the placenta has become your baby's lifeline.
It performs several essential functions by:
Delivering oxygen
Providing nutrients
Removing waste products
Producing pregnancy hormones
Offering immune protection
A healthy placenta plays a vital role throughout the remainder of pregnancy.
Week-by-Week Baby Development During the 4th Month Pregnancy
📦 How Big Is Your Baby in the 4th Month of Pregnancy?
By the end of the 4th month of pregnancy, your baby is about the size of an avocado, measuring approximately 11–12 cm (4.3–4.6 inches) long and weighing around 100 grams (3.5 ounces).
Your baby grows remarkably during pregnancy weeks 13 to 16. At the beginning of the month, your baby is about the size of a peach, and by week 16, your little one is roughly the size of an avocado.
Although still tiny, your baby's body has become much more proportionate. The head no longer appears overwhelmingly large, limbs are stronger, and coordinated movements become increasingly common.
One exciting milestone during baby development in the 4th month of pregnancy is that your baby can now make facial expressions, suck their thumb, yawn, stretch, and kick—even if you cannot feel every movement just yet.
👩⚕️ Doctor's Tip
The 4th month of pregnancy is an ideal time to focus on maintaining healthy habits that support both you and your growing baby. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins, especially those containing folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and iodine, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
A balanced 4th month pregnancy diet should include plenty of lean protein, whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, healthy fats, and iron-rich foods to support your baby's rapid growth.
During your routine prenatal appointments, your healthcare provider may:
Monitor your baby's heartbeat
Check your weight and blood pressure
Measure your growing uterus
Review your pregnancy symptoms
Recommend blood or urine tests if needed
Discuss your upcoming anatomy scan, usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks
Keeping all prenatal appointments helps monitor your health and ensures your baby continues developing normally.
Also Read: Essential Do’s and Don’ts in Pregnancy
Healthy Habits During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Healthy habits during the 4th month of pregnancy help support your baby's rapid growth, improve your energy levels, and prepare your body for the months ahead.
As you enter the second trimester, you may feel more comfortable and energetic. This is the perfect time to establish healthy routines that benefit both you and your growing baby. During pregnancy weeks 13 to 16, your baby's bones, muscles, brain, and organs continue developing rapidly, making proper nutrition, hydration, and prenatal care more important than ever.
Attend All Prenatal Appointments
Regular prenatal checkups help your healthcare provider monitor your baby's growth and detect any concerns early.
During your visits, your provider may:
Monitor your baby's heartbeat
Check your blood pressure and weight
Measure your uterus
Review your pregnancy symptoms
Recommend screening tests if needed
Discuss your upcoming anatomy scan
Never skip scheduled prenatal appointments, even if you feel healthy.
Continue Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Your nutritional needs remain high throughout the 4th month pregnancy.
Prenatal vitamins usually contain:
Folic acid
Iron
Calcium
Vitamin D
Iodine
DHA (if recommended)
These nutrients support healthy brain development, strong bones, and your baby's overall growth.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water supports increased blood volume, helps deliver nutrients to your baby, and may reduce constipation and headaches.
Aim for approximately 8–10 glasses of water daily, or follow your healthcare provider's advice.
Staying hydrated may also help reduce:
Constipation
Dizziness
Fatigue
Urinary infections
Stay Physically Active
If your pregnancy is healthy and your healthcare provider approves, gentle exercise is encouraged.
Safe activities include:
Walking
Prenatal yoga
Swimming
Light stretching
Pelvic floor exercises
Regular physical activity can improve circulation, reduce back pain, promote better sleep, and prepare your body for labor.
Get Enough Rest
Although many women regain energy during the 4th month of pregnancy, your body still needs plenty of rest.
Try to:
Sleep 7–9 hours every night
Take short breaks during the day if needed
Sleep on your left side when comfortable
Use pregnancy pillows for extra support
Quality sleep supports your health and your baby's development.
4th Month Pregnancy Diet: Foods to Eat
A healthy 4th month pregnancy diet should include protein, calcium, iron, folate, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your baby's rapid development.
Your baby's bones, muscles, brain, and organs continue growing quickly during pregnancy weeks 13 to 16. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods helps meet your increased nutritional needs.
Best Foods to Eat During the 4th Month Pregnancy
Foods to Avoid During the 4th Month Pregnancy
Weight Gain During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Healthy weight gain during the 4th month of pregnancy supports your baby's development and varies depending on your pre-pregnancy weight.
Most women begin gaining weight more steadily during the second trimester.
On average:
Around 1–2 pounds (0.5–1 kg) per week
Appetite usually improves
Baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, and increased blood volume all contribute to healthy weight gain
Rather than focusing only on the scale, aim to:
✔ Eat balanced meals
✔ Stay active
✔ Drink enough water
✔ Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations
4th Month Pregnancy Precautions
Following simple precautions during the 4th month of pregnancy can help reduce complications and support a healthy pregnancy.
✔ Continue taking prenatal vitamins daily.
✔ Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.
✔ Stay well hydrated.
✔ Exercise only as advised by your healthcare provider.
✔ Avoid alcohol, smoking, vaping, and recreational drugs.
✔ Limit caffeine to less than 200 mg daily.
✔ Avoid lifting heavy objects.
✔ Do not take medicines without medical approval.
✔ Wear comfortable footwear to prevent falls.
✔ Practice good food hygiene.
✔ Get enough sleep every night.
✔ Keep all prenatal appointments.
4th Month Pregnancy Checklist
A simple checklist can help you stay organized and maintain healthy habits throughout the 4th month of pregnancy.
✔ Attend scheduled prenatal appointments.
✔ Continue prenatal vitamins.
✔ Eat a healthy 4th month pregnancy diet.
✔ Stay hydrated every day.
✔ Walk or exercise safely.
✔ Track your baby's development.
✔ Learn about your upcoming anatomy scan.
✔ Begin planning maternity clothing if needed.
✔ Monitor your weight gain.
✔ Discuss any unusual symptoms with your healthcare provider.
✔ Spend time relaxing and managing stress.
Pregnancy Comfort Items That May Help During the 4th Month
As your baby bump grows, a few simple products can improve comfort.
These may include:
A supportive maternity bra
Pregnancy pillow
Comfortable maternity clothing
Reusable water bottle
Healthy snacks
Comfortable walking shoes
Belly support band (if recommended)
Stretch mark moisturizer (optional)
Normal Symptoms vs Warning Signs During the 4th Month of Pregnancy
Although many 4th month pregnancy symptoms are completely normal, some require immediate medical attention.
When Should You Call a Doctor During the 4th Month of Pregnancy?
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, fluid leakage, high fever, or any symptom that feels unusual during the 4th month of pregnancy.
Seek medical care if you experience:
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting
Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
Fluid leaking from the vagina
Pain while urinating
Severe headache or blurred vision
Sudden swelling of the face or hands
Fainting or difficulty breathing
Any symptom that concerns you
It is always safer to contact your healthcare provider if something does not feel right.
Frequently Asked Questions About 4th Month Pregnancy
How should I feel at 4 months pregnant?
At 4 months pregnant, many women feel more energetic as morning sickness and fatigue begin to improve. You may notice a growing baby bump, increased appetite, mild backache, round ligament pain, and occasional fluttering baby movements. Every pregnancy is different, so your experience may vary.
Is the baby fully formed at 4 months?
By the 4th month of pregnancy, your baby's major organs, arms, legs, fingers, and toes have formed. However, the organs, brain, lungs, and other body systems continue developing and maturing throughout the rest of the pregnancy.
What should you avoid during the 4th month of pregnancy?
During the 4th month of pregnancy, avoid alcohol, smoking, recreational drugs, raw or undercooked meat and seafood, unpasteurized dairy products, excessive caffeine, and medications that are not approved by your healthcare provider. Also, avoid lifting heavy objects and activities with a high risk of falling.
Is there any risk in the 4th month of pregnancy?
The 4th month of pregnancy is generally considered safer because the risk of miscarriage decreases after the first trimester. However, complications can still occur. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fluid leakage, fever, or any unusual symptoms.
Can I feel a baby kick at 4 months?
Yes. Some women begin feeling their baby's first movements, known as quickening, during the 4th month of pregnancy, usually between 16 and 20 weeks. These early movements often feel like gentle flutters, bubbles, or light taps.
What are the discomforts of the 4th month of pregnancy?
Common 4th month pregnancy symptoms include mild back pain, round ligament pain, constipation, heartburn, nasal congestion, breast tenderness, leg cramps, increased appetite, and a growing baby bump. Most of these discomforts are normal and can often be managed with healthy lifestyle habits.
What pain is normal at 4 months pregnant?
Mild lower abdominal stretching, round ligament pain, occasional backache, and light pelvic discomfort are common during the 4th month of pregnancy as your uterus grows. However, severe abdominal pain, persistent cramps, or pain accompanied by bleeding should be evaluated by your healthcare provider immediately.
How do you check a 4-month pregnancy?
A 4-month pregnancy is usually monitored through regular prenatal checkups. Your healthcare provider may check your weight, blood pressure, baby's heartbeat, uterine growth, and overall health. An ultrasound may also be recommended to assess your baby's development.
Is my bump a normal size at 4 months?
Yes. Baby bumps vary greatly from one woman to another. At 4 months pregnant, some women have a noticeable bump, while others show very little. Your body type, muscle tone, and whether this is your first pregnancy can all affect bump size.
Can I feel my baby at 4 months?
Yes. Some women begin feeling gentle fluttering sensations during the 4th month of pregnancy, especially toward the end of the month. If this is your first pregnancy, you may not feel movement until a few weeks later, which is also completely normal.
Final Thoughts on the 4th Month of Pregnancy
The 4th month pregnancy is an exciting milestone that brings new energy, a growing baby bump, and remarkable changes in your baby's development. As you enter the second trimester, you may feel healthier and more confident while watching your little one grow stronger every day. Eating a balanced 4th month pregnancy diet, staying active, attending regular prenatal checkups, and following healthy lifestyle habits can support both your well-being and your baby's development. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so listen to your body and always consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article by the Pregnancy Cures Editorial Team is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your obstetrician, midwife, or healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your pregnancy.
Sources
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
National Health Service (NHS)
World Health Organization (WHO)
March of Dimes
Cleveland Clinic
This article was reviewed and updated in July 2026 by the Pregnancy Cures Editorial Team.
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