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.
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.
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.
- 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.