👶Your baby this week
Your baby is now about the length of a newborn dummy, roughly 5.4 centimetres from head to bottom and has completed most of the early building work on vital organs.
The placenta has largely taken over from the yolk sac, supplying oxygen and nutrients and removing waste through the umbilical cord. As this happens, pregnancy hormones often begin to settle.
Internal organs and muscles have formed and are maturing. The skeleton, which started as soft tissue, is beginning to harden into bone.
Facial features are clearer: the eyes are in position and partly closed, the nose and upper lip are defined, and tiny ear shapes are visible on each side of the head.
Tooth buds are tucked in the gums, and the pituitary gland has started producing hormones. Meanwhile, bone marrow is beginning to make white blood cells to help fight infection after birth.
The digestive system is practising wave-like contractions, and the intestines are moving from the umbilical cord area back into the abdomen where they belong.
External sex organs have formed, though most scans won’t reliably show the baby’s sex until later in pregnancy. Jerky little movements are common now and can often be seen on a scan, even if you can’t feel them yet.
🌸Your body this week
With the first trimester nearly behind you, hormones may be calming and energy slowly returning. Many people notice a thicker waist and fuller breasts at this stage.
As nausea eases, appetite can pick up. It’s normal to wonder about weight gain and whether your bump seems big or small, body shape in pregnancy varies widely.
The uterus is rising out of the pelvis and may feel like a firm, rounded shape above the pubic bone. Some tightness or mild cramping can occur as ligaments stretch.
Progesterone still relaxes the digestive tract, so bloating, wind, indigestion and heartburn can continue, especially after larger or late meals.
Light-headed spells can happen if you stands quickly or hasn’t eaten for a while. Regular snacks and fluids usually help.
A thin, milky vaginal discharge (leukorrhoea) remains normal and protective. Seek medical advice if there’s bleeding, pain, itching or an unusual smell.
💛Symptoms you might notice
Every pregnancy is different. These are common around week 12 — speak to your midwife if anything worries you.
Nausea Easing (But Not Gone)
Many people feel less sick by week 12, though queasiness can linger. Small, frequent snacks, ginger or lemon, and steady fluids may still help on off days.
Bloating, Indigestion and Heartburn
Eat slowly, choose smaller portions and avoid rich, spicy or very acidic foods. Try not to eat late at night and stay upright after meals.
Headaches
Hormones, fatigue or low blood sugar can contribute. Rest in a dim room, hydrate and keep meals regular. Speak to a midwife or GP before taking any medicines.
Dizziness
Rising blood flow needs can lower blood pressure. Stand up slowly, snack regularly and drink water. Sit or lie down if you feels faint.
Breast Tenderness
Growth and increased blood flow can make breasts feel sore or heavy. A well-fitting, supportive bra, including for sleep, can ease discomfort.
Skin and Hair Changes
Some people notice darker patches on the face (chloasma), oilier skin or thicker hair. Use gentle skincare and daily SPF if spending time outdoors.
Increased Vaginal Discharge
Leukorrhoea is typically thin and milky. Choose breathable underwear and avoid perfumed washes, which can upset the natural balance.
✨Tips for week 12
Have your Dating Scan and Routine Checks
If it hasn’t happened yet, the first scan is due around now. Blood, urine and blood pressure checks help monitor your health and your baby’s wellbeing.
Healthy Weight Gain, No Need to ‘Eat for Two’
Most weight gain happens after 20 weeks. Focus on balanced meals with fruit and veg, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy or fortified alternatives.
Manage Bloating and Heartburn
Aim for six smaller meals, eat slowly, sip fluids and try a short walk after eating. Avoid late meals and known trigger foods if possible.
Keep Taking Folic Acid (to Week 12) and Vitamin D
Continue 400 micrograms of folic acid daily until at least the end of this week, and 10 micrograms of vitamin D to support bones and muscles.
Consider Sharing the News at Work
Many people tell their employer after the first scan. Once you does, You has maternity rights, including paid time off for antenatal care and a workplace risk assessment.
Plan Ahead (Birth Place and Birth Plan)
With energy returning, explore local maternity units and start noting your preferences. Keep plans flexible, your midwife can help refine details later.
Stay Active, Gently
Aim for around 150 minutes of moderate activity per week if comfortable. Even a brisk ten-minute walk supports mood, sleep and digestion.
Review Foods to Avoid
Check current guidance on foods to skip during pregnancy and follow safe food hygiene to protect your and your baby’s health.
Look After your Emotional Wellbeing
If you feels anxious or low, talk to a midwife, GP or someone trusted. Support is available, You doesn’t have to manage alone.
Think Ahead About Contraception
It may feel early, but discussing post-birth contraception now helps you make informed choices later and plan healthy gaps between pregnancies.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol, Limit Caffeine
Seek support to stop smoking and avoid alcohol. Keep caffeinated drinks to a sensible minimum.