WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

My baby at 12 weeks of pregnancy

Pregnancy
Pregnancy week by week
Your Baby at 12 Weeks
As big as a lemon
Length
2.91
Weight
0.81
As you approach the end of the first trimester, your baby has grown to the size of a plum, weighing roughly the same as a slice of bread and measuring about 2.9 to 3 inches long. 

This stage is marked by rapid growth and the fine-tuning of bodily functions.
What's new this week?
Baby’s Changes Overview
Your baby can now yawn and swallow
Your baby begins to move slightly
The fetus is now fully formed
Open 3D Baby to see all changes
  • Yawning and Swallowing: Your baby is now capable of yawning and swallowing, practicing essential functions.

  • Fetal Movement: Although slight, the fetus has begun to move, indicating developing muscle strength and coordination.

  • Organ Functionality: With most organs in place and starting to function, including a steady heartbeat and active liver, the digestive system is also kicking into gear.

  • Facial Development: Your baby's facial features are becoming more defined, with eyes moving closer and ears reaching their final positions.

  • Nervous System Development: Rapid brain and nervous system growth enable some control over bodily functions such as swallowing.

  • Muscle and Bone Development: Limbs are well-formed, muscles are developing, and larger bones, including the skull, are starting to harden.

  • Unique Identity: Fingerprints are beginning to form on the fingertips, marking the beginning of your baby's unique identity.Y
Celebrating the transition to the size of a large plum, you may notice an increase in energy as you near the conclusion of the first trimester.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
Helping your baby's development
  • Calcium-Rich Diet: Incorporate dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods into your diet to support the development of strong bones, teeth, and a healthy nervous system for your baby.

  • Portion Control: To prevent constipation and manage weight gain effectively, opt for 5 or 6 smaller meals throughout the day rather than three large ones.

  • Vitamin C Intake: Boost your immune system and potentially reduce the severity of colds by consuming vitamin C-rich foods or taking a supplement, after consulting with your doctor.

  • Maintain Physical Activity: Continue or start a low-impact exercise routine, such as swimming, walking, or prenatal yoga, based on your doctor's recommendations.

  • Adequate Rest: Prioritize sleep, aiming for 7-10 hours per night, to support your health and your baby's development. Establishing a regular sleep routine can be particularly beneficial.
Top Asked Questions
Is it normal to have food cravings and aversions?

Yes, food cravings and aversions are common in pregnancy. These changes in taste preferences are due to hormonal fluctuations.

When should I schedule my first ultrasound?

Your first ultrasound, also known as the dating ultrasound, is typically scheduled between weeks 8 and 14 to confirm the due date and check the baby's development.

What exercises are safe during the first trimester?

Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are generally safe during the first trimester. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.

What should I do if I experience dizziness during pregnancy?

If you feel dizzy, sit down, and take deep breaths. Dehydration or low blood sugar can contribute to dizziness, so stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals.

Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
View Sources
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K
Kaylee
15 Dec 2023

She’s made her way here at 37 weeks 12/12/23 born at 12:12 pm 6 pounds 3 ounces 19 inches 🤍🎀

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
L
Lexus
Congratulations 🩷🩷
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jazmyn
1 Jul 2023

12 weeks today kinda worried that i look to small hoping my baby is ok… anyone else super skinny still at 12 weeks???

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
6 comments
S
Shyla
My sister was tiny and barley started showing at 25 weeks lol.
27 Mar 2024

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S
Shyla
Baby will be okay :)
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jiselle Martinez
23 Apr 2023

I’m going to my next appointment and I’m gonna be 12 weeks that day and i can’t wait but can I know the gender of my baby at 12 weeks #youngmoms

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
3 comments
r
rena 🩵
Yes you can with a blood test! I got my test done at 12 weeks.
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jiselle Martinez
Really thank you so much
27 Mar 2024

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B
Brooke
13 Mar 2023

Anybody still not showing at all at 12 weeks? I’m pretty petite too so I would have thought by now I would be showing. I know they say with your first, you usually show later

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1 comments
H
Hannah
I'm 12 weeks 1 day and I have a little pudge. I'm also a bigger girl too though. Maybe our bumps will start to show soon!!
27 Mar 2024

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k
kaylee
11 Mar 2023

I’m new to all this and I’m 12 weeks and 2 days when do you find out the gender of your baby

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
12 comments
A
Ashley
18-22 weeks nobody would give me a clear answer to this question so I’m happy to answer it for you!
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jessica
Some place can I give as early at 13 weeks depending on how baby is positioned. That’s when I found out with my youngest son.
27 Mar 2024

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C
Connie
2 Nov 2022

How many glucose test are done during your pregnancy. I had my first one at 12 weeks. Are they going to make me do another one?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
7 comments
S
Sabrinapocalypse
I only remember doing one
27 Mar 2024

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C
Cyrina
Only one and usually in your third trimester unless the dr sees other reasons then they’ll do it like mid to late second I’m supposed to have mine on the 11th due to a loss last year they’re checking EVERYTHING
27 Mar 2024

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C
Cheyenne
29 Oct 2022

I’m hoping I can find out my gender next week! I’m 12 weeks and with my baby boy I found out at 12.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
R
Rais Kadeh
22 Sep 2022

Is it normal I am 12 weeks but I don't feel kicking it is that normal when you start feeling your baby kick

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
12 comments
K
Kayla
Is this your first pregnancy? I didn't feel movement till 20 weeks
27 Mar 2024

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R
Rais Kadeh
this is my second pregnancy
27 Mar 2024

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I
Infinity
22 May 2022

I AT MOST have 12 weeks left before our baby girl gets here , I have a scheduled C-Section at 39 weeks and my mind is blown 12 weeks is going too fly by

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5 comments
I
Infinity
My due date is august 21st but I'm having a scheduled C-section at 39 weeks it's a little wild because my oldest daughters birthday is August 15th and I'm scheduled too have this baby on August 15th as well
27 Mar 2024

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N
Necia
6 Nov 2021

Hey mommas i’m a first time mom, 12 weeks. what are some must haves on your baby registry?

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2 comments
K
Karen
The only things I've added are a stroller/car seat set and a mamaroo lol going to add more stuff later
27 Mar 2024

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R
Rachelle
essentials , diaper rash cream , sets of wash for baby , Pacifier ettc
27 Mar 2024

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