You’ve almost made it to the second trimester! Congrats! Some of the early pregnancy symptoms you may have been experiencing may slowly start to become less intense. As energy levels pick up, you may hear the amazing sound of your baby’s heartbeat at this month’s check up!
What happens to your baby week by week
- Week 9 – Your baby is now about the size of a grapefruit, and their limbs are starting to grow and develop.Their heart is also starting to beat faster, and they’re beginning to develop their own blood type.
- Week 10 – During this month, your baby’s bones are also starting to harden, and their eyes are beginning to form. Their digestive system is also starting to develop, and they’re starting to produce meconium, which is their first stool. Under the gums, tiny buds of baby teeth are forming.
- Week 11 – Your baby is just over 5 cm long and weighs about 9 grams. Their hair follicles are also beginning to form, as well as their fingernail and toenail beds. Their nails are forming on their individual fingers and toes, which recently separated from the webbed hands and feet.
- Week 12 – Your baby is about the size of a large plum. Though most of its systems are fully formed, there is still plenty of maturing to do. Your baby’s bones are hardening and they are developing a protective layer of fat. Their skin is still thin, but it is now covered with lanugo, a soft downy hair. Their senses are also beginning to develop, and they may be able to hear your voice and feel your touch.
- Week 13 – In just a few weeks, your baby has gone from the size of a poppy seed to a peach. Your baby’s head is now about half the size of its crown-to-rump length. Also developing this week are your baby’s vocal cords! You are doing an amazing job, mama!
What YOU may be feeling
You may experience all of these symptoms at one time or another, or only a few of them. Some may have continued from last month, others may be new.
Physically
- Fatigue, lack of energy, sleepiness.
- Excess saliva.
- Heartburn, indigestion, flatulence, bloating.
- Constipation.
- Increasing appetite.
- Visible veins on your abdomen and/or legs.
- Occasional faintness or dizziness.
- Occasional headaches.
- Increased vaginal discharge.
Emotionally
Continued ups and downs, which may include mood swings, irritability and weepiness.
- A new sense of calm.
- Fear, joy, elation – any of all
- A sense of unreality about the pregnancy situation.
It’s important to remember that not every woman experiences all of these symptoms. And, in some cases, the symptoms may be so mild that you don’t even notice them.
If you’re concerned about any of the symptoms you’re experiencing, or if you just have questions about what’s normal in pregnancy, be sure to talk to your doctor.
What to expect during this month check-up
During your third month check-up, your doctor will likely ask about your symptoms and how you’ve been feeling since your last visit. They will also take your blood pressure and measure your abdomen. Additionally, they will likely order an ultrasound to check on the development of the baby and the placenta. You may also have a few routine blood and urine tests done at this time. Be sure to ask your doctor any questions you have about your pregnancy or the upcoming delivery.
Tips for your second month of pregnancy
- Continue to take prenatal vitamins.
- Try to stay active unless you’re experiencing swelling or pain.
- Don’t forget to work out your pelvic floor by doing Kegel exercises.
- Drink lots of water.
- Take time for yourself.
Keep with the awesome work! You are an amazing mama!
Would you like to know more about your pregnancy? Go to your next month!