WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 12 weeks of pregnancy

Pregnancy
Pregnancy week by week
Your Body at 12 Weeks
Entering the 12th week of pregnancy signifies a pivotal moment as you transition into the second trimester, often regarded as the most comfortable phase of pregnancy.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Vaginal discharge

Constipation

Libido changes

Gum sensibility

Vaginal Discharge: Increasingly common, serving a protective function.

Digestive Irregularities: Constipation emerges due to progesterone's impact on gut motility.

Libido changes: Fluctuations in libido are normal, influenced by hormonal changes.

Gum Sensitivity: Enhanced blood flow may result in gingival sensitivity and bleeding.
The end of the first trimester marks a milestone. You may notice reduced morning sickness as your body adapts to the pregnancy. Around this time, you may consider the first-trimester screening, including a nuchal translucency (NT) scan and blood tests, to assess the baby's risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
Is it normal?
The subsidence of nausea and vomiting is a welcome relief for many, attributed to the stabilization of hCG levels. 

The commencement of the second trimester also introduces an optimal period for the first-trimester screening to evaluate the risk of chromosomal anomalies through ultrasound and blood tests.
Top Asked Question
Top 5 questions answered
When will I start to show a baby bump?

It varies, but typically between 12-16 weeks.

What should I expect at my 12-week prenatal appointment?

Blood pressure check, weight check, and Doppler to hear the heartbeat.

Can I still drink coffee during pregnancy?

Yes, but limit your intake to one or two cups a day (200mg caffeine).

Can I announce my pregnancy now?

It's up to you but many women choose to announce their pregnancy at the end of the 1st trimester or the beginning of the 2nd trimester, as this is when the risk of miscarriage significantly drops.

When should I start preparing for childbirth?

It's never too early to start preparing for childbirth, but many women begin taking childbirth classes or doing research around the start of their third trimester (around 28 weeks).

Taking care of yourself
Digestive Discomfort: The relaxation of the digestive tract by progesterone can slow digestion, leading to heartburn and constipation. Adequate hydration and dietary fiber are essential for mitigation.

Gum Sensitivity: Increased blood volume can lead to gingival sensitivity. Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial during this period.

Libido Changes: Sexual desire may fluctuate significantly during pregnancy. Communication with your partner and exploring comfortable intimacy options are key.

Vaginal Discharge: An increase in estrogen levels can lead to heightened cervical mucus production, acting as a barrier against infection.
Focus on getting enough protein, fruits & veggies
Avoid raw or undercooked meats, seafood or eggs to reduce risk of foodborne illness
Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to reduce stress and anxiety
Prepare for the financial aspects of having a baby, such as budgeting and saving
Teaser for next week
Looking ahead, the forthcoming weeks herald the stabilization of morning sickness, a visible baby bump, and a resurgence of energy levels. 

Stay tuned for further guidance as you embrace the forthcoming joys and challenges of the second trimester.
View Sources
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B
Bri
23 Jan 2024

If your due April 7 or 9 when did you conceive? My first due date was given to me at 7w4d and second was confirmed at 12w2d. I vividly remember conceiving on the 16th but my UT calculated the 17th. Is this just an estimate or having an ultrasound at 12w helps determine conception? Was also told I was measuring a week ahead at my 12 but she said the due date was staying at 9.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
24 comments
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Nik
Conception doesn't happen the day of sex. It takes a few days ❤️
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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Latasha Marie🌸
My due date is April 7th, my estimated day of ovulation is the 15th/16th, but u can conceive/ovulate up to a few days before or after estimated ovulation also. But it depends on how long your cycle is.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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Quilla
19 Dec 2023

Hi ladies I’m 12w & 3d. Pregnant with my 3rd child but I’m not showing… could that be normal?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
A
Alexandria
I'm 15 weeks 1 day and barely showing it's normal hun every woman's body is different especially during pregnancy ❤️
27 Mar 2024

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Mikayla
8 Oct 2023

12W Today! Just found out we’re having a baby girl ❤️🎉 So Beyond Excited! #12Weeks #Girl #FirstBaby #GenderResults

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7 comments
C
Chloe
How long did it take you to get results
27 Mar 2024

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Mikayla
I am fortunate that it only took 5 days. I see other moms on here saying it took longer. I got mine done Monday 10/2 late in the day and they came back Saturday 10/7. Girl when I tell you I was beyond shocked and so happy it came back so quick! My drs office said I should expect the results by like 10/10 or after that.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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Emily
19 Jul 2023

Hey everyone! FTM here, I'm currently 11w and 5d. Wondering when y'all found out what gender your baby was? Can Dr's tell as early as 12w? Pic of myself and my little one. ❤️

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
12 comments
S
Savannah
Around 16 weeks or later
27 Mar 2024

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S
Savannah
They do DNA testing to look for genetic issues as early as 10 weeks that will tell the gender
27 Mar 2024

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KGlizzy
3 Apr 2023

i’m 12w exactly today and my boyfriend just surprised me with my pregnancy body pillow 🥹🥹 i love him so much! I’ve always wanted one, pregnant or not 😅😂

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
💋
💋Queen💋
Teresa comfortable my daughter uses mine LOL
27 Mar 2024

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Aaliyah Ann
12 Mar 2023

12w/3d 2nd OB appointment tomorrow, trying the early gender blood test. Anyone else find out gender at 12 weeks?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
5 comments
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Kyra
Me, well I did the test at 12 weeks it took about a week to come back so I found out at 13 weeks
27 Mar 2024

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Nicole
Yess the good ole nipt test took like a week to come back
27 Mar 2024

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Dai’ja
2 Mar 2023

I’m officially 12 weeks today ! No sickness, just always hungry 🥳 #12w #firstbaby

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
5 comments
T
Tami
You are so lucky! Morning sickness, dizziness, and back pain are kicking my ass.
27 Mar 2024

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Dai’ja
The beginning was rough for me! But around 9 weeks most of my symptoms stop
27 Mar 2024

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Kahbreya
28 Feb 2023

Hey mama’s at my second round of glucose testing 12w 2days && that lemon lime juice they jus gave me was terrible && man do I feel sick 🤢 as hell && light headed shew !

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
D
Dominique
That’s how I feel after the orange drink smh. I’m so not ready.
27 Mar 2024

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K
Kahbreya
girl && being stuck wit a needle 3-4 times in the same arm same spot ugh my damn vein got tender && sore && started bleeding
27 Mar 2024

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Amber
28 Jan 2023

How much weight has everyone had everyone gain? I’m 12w 2d I’ve gained between 6-8 lbs so far!

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
8 comments
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Sonia
I’m 12 weeks 4days and I’ve lost weight. 11lbs
27 Mar 2024

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Ashley
I’m 11 weeks 6 days and have lost 2 lbs
27 Mar 2024

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Dani
15 Dec 2021

My beautiful baby was sucking his/her thumb yesterday on our 12w appointment 😍

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0 comments
D
Dani
it melted my heart ❤️
27 Mar 2024

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