Lanugo is a fine, soft hair that covers the fetus's body during the second trimester of pregnancy. It's usually shed before birth, but some babies may be born with a little bit of lanugo, especially on their shoulders, back, and ears.
Here's what you should know about lanugo:
* Purpose: Lanugo is believed to help the fetus regulate its temperature in the womb.
* Development: It starts to appear around 16 weeks of pregnancy and reaches its peak at around 28 weeks.
* Shedding: Most lanugo sheds and is swallowed by the fetus before birth. The fetus can then pass it through its meconium (first bowel movement).
* After birth: Some babies are born with lanugo, particularly if they are born prematurely. It typically falls off within a few weeks after birth.
If you have any further questions about lanugo or any other aspects of fetal development, please consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.