You are almost at the conclusion of the first trimester at 12 weeks pregnant. And your unborn child has been active. This week, your baby’s vital organs and body components will all be developed. Including the sex organs.
If you have a checkup this week, you might have the opportunity to hear your baby’s heartbeat. Since it is likely heard with an external Doppler instrument by this point.
Although it’s still too early for you to feel the motions, your baby is also beginning to move a bit. The organs and muscles of your unborn child will continue to grow and develop over the ensuing weeks.
The Fetus at 12 Weeks of Pregnancy
At 12 weeks, the fetus is roughly the size of a passion fruit, with a circumference of 2.5 inches and a weight of 0.5 ounces.
Body of Mom at 12 Weeks Pregnant
Feed me! You could notice that your appetite is returning when the sickness and pain of early pregnancy start to pass. Make sure to eat frequently and to maintain a balanced diet, but resist the urge to overeat.
During pregnancy, experts advise consuming only about 300 more calories each day. Your healthcare professional will be able to provide you with individualized guidance.
You could be wondering if your tummy is the appropriate size for being 12 weeks pregnant as you stare at it. Avoid comparing your bump to those of other expectant mothers. Each pregnancy is different from the next. And will rely on a variety of elements, including your physical makeup. If you are expecting twins, your pre-pregnancy weight, and whether this is your first child.
To put it another way, if you are 12 weeks pregnant, you could be beginning to notice a bigger tummy. Yet, if not, don’t panic; it will show up before you know it.
Symptoms of a Pregnancy at Twelve Weeks
The following are some signs you could be twelve weeks along:
Gums that bleed and are sensitive.
Your gums may begin to swell. Become more sensitive, and even bleed when you brush or floss.
Even though this could be unsettling, it might actually be entirely normal. Continue to brush and floss frequently. And if you have any questions, consult your dentist.
Experiencing dizziness
You might experience occasional lightheadedness or vertigo. You can feel better by dressing comfortably. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding prolonged standing, and remembering to eat regularly. Attempt to get up gently after sitting and avoid making sudden posture changes. Call your doctor right away if you experience persistent lightheadedness and abdominal pain. Or vaginal bleeding, or any of the other symptoms listed above.
A keen sense of smell at 12 weeks pregnant
During this stage of pregnancy, your sense of smell may be very delicate. Try eating cold or room temperature food to prevent strong aromas. Use a fan when cooking, and have someone else in your home take out the garbage if specific smells irritate you.
Bleeding or spotting
If you experience bleeding other than mild spotting at any point in your pregnancy. Such as after sex. It’s a good idea to call your doctor to have the symptom evaluated. Especially if it’s accompanied by cramps.
12 Weeks Pregnant: Things to Think About
Make sure to consume a balanced diet throughout pregnancy. Include proteins like meat, chicken, fish, or replacements made from plants. You should also incorporate calcium-rich foods like low-fat dairy, beans, nuts, and tofu.
If you haven’t already, begin performing Kegels.
The muscles in your pelvic floor can be strengthened with kegel exercises. There are numerous advantages. One of which is preventing unintentional urination both during and after pregnancy. You can even start from week 1 of pregnancy.
Kegel exercises are simple.
Clench the same muscles that you would use to try to stop the flow of pee to tighten your pelvic floor muscles. Hold for a short while, then let go. At least three sets of 20 should be your goal each day. As your muscles get stronger, you can execute more Kegels and hold them for longer periods of time.
Consider how you’ll tell your coworkers that you’re expecting. If you’re a future working mother, you might consider making your pregnancy known before the end of the first trimester. See our advice on how to tell your workplace about your pregnancy.