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Pregnancy Week 11: Almost Out of the First Trimester

Babysential TeamMarch 27, 20265 min read
Pregnancy Week 11: Almost Out of the First Trimester

You are almost through the first trimester. The fetus is moving energetically, though still too small for you to feel. Hair follicles are forming, and the body is growing faster than the head now, shifting toward more human proportions. Use our Due Date Calculator to track your timeline.

Key Takeaways

  • Your baby is about 4 cm long (the size of a lime) and weighs roughly 7 grams at week 11
  • Hair follicles are forming across the entire body, and the fetus can open and close its hands
  • The kidneys are functional — the fetus swallows amniotic fluid and excretes it as urine
  • Nausea may start easing this week as the placenta prepares to take over hormone production
  • The nuchal translucency (NT) scan should be scheduled between weeks 11 and 14 — do not wait

Your Baby This Week

Size: Lime (about 4 cm, or 1.6 inches)

Weight: About 7 grams

  • Movement: Stretching, somersaulting, and hiccupping in the amniotic fluid
  • Hair follicles: Forming across the body
  • Hands: Can open and close into fists. Individual finger movements are developing.
  • Genitals: Starting to differentiate externally, though not yet visible on ultrasound in most cases
  • Diaphragm: Forming, preparing for future breathing movements
  • Skin: Transparent, with blood vessels clearly visible underneath

The fetus can now swallow amniotic fluid and excrete it as urine, a sign that the kidneys are working. Track your baby's growth with our Milestone Tracker.

Your Body

  • Nausea may be easing for some, though others still have a few weeks to go
  • Increased appetite as nausea fades
  • Hair and nails may grow faster due to hormonal changes
  • Skin changes: Some people develop the "pregnancy glow" from increased blood flow and oil production. Others get breakouts.
  • Less frequent urination temporarily, as the uterus rises out of the pelvis

What to Do This Week

  • Schedule nuchal translucency screening if you have not already. This ultrasound, done between weeks 11 and 14, measures fluid at the back of the baby's neck to screen for chromosomal conditions. Read our Prenatal Testing & NIPT Guide to understand your screening options.
  • Start planning maternity wardrobe basics. You may not need them yet, but stretchy waistbands and looser tops will soon become your best friends.
  • Keep exercising. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and excessive weight gain (ACOG, 2023).

Common Questions

What does the nuchal translucency scan check for?

The NT scan measures a pocket of fluid behind the baby's neck. An increased measurement, combined with blood test results, can indicate higher risk for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.

Can I dye my hair during pregnancy?

Most research suggests that hair dye is safe during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. The chemicals are absorbed through the scalp in very small amounts. If concerned, consider highlights (which do not touch the scalp) or semi-permanent dyes.

FAQ

How is the baby at 11 weeks in size?

At 11 weeks, the fetus is about 4 cm long (roughly 1.6 inches) — similar in size to a lime. It weighs approximately 7 grams. Though small, it has all major organs, and the body is now growing faster than the proportionally large head.

Is 11 weeks still first trimester?

Yes. The first trimester runs through week 13. Week 11 means you have about two weeks left before the second trimester begins and the risk of miscarriage drops significantly.

What symptoms are normal at 11 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms include nausea (starting to ease for some), increased appetite as nausea fades, faster-growing hair and nails, skin changes (glow or breakouts), and temporarily less frequent urination as the uterus rises out of the pelvis.

When should I schedule the NT scan?

The nuchal translucency scan must be done between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days — this window is strict. If you have not scheduled it yet, call your provider this week. The scan combines with a blood test to screen for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome.

Can I exercise at 11 weeks?

Yes. ACOG recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week during pregnancy for most people. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all safe. Avoid contact sports or activities with a fall risk.

Sources

🔧 Helpful Tools

Pregnancy Week 11: Almost Out of the First Trimester — illustration

Sources & Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your or your child's health.

Related Topics

pregnancy week 11fetal developmentfirst trimesternuchal translucency

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