👶Your baby this week
Your baby is now about the length of a newborn mitten, roughly 7.4 centimetres from head to bottom and finishing the first trimester in style.
The head still makes up a good share of body length, but proportions are beginning to balance as the torso lengthens. Eyelids are formed and remain fused to protect the developing eyes.
Tiny bones in the arms and legs are starting to harden, and those little hands can move in jerky, practice motions. Many babies can get a thumb to their mouth, helping to build a strong sucking reflex for feeding after birth.
Fingers and toes are separated with early nail beds, external genitals are formed, and the internal ovaries or testes are in place.
The intestines, which temporarily grew into the umbilical cord area earlier on, are moving back into the abdomen, and the digestive tract is practising coordinated squeezes.
The larynx is taking shape, and the first vocal cords are forming, the groundwork for future cries, coos and giggles.
The placenta is growing steadily and taking the lead on nourishing your baby and clearing waste through the umbilical cord.
🌸Your body this week
You’re a third of the way through pregnancy, and a small bump may now be visible as the womb lifts upward. As it rises, that constant need to pee often eases.
More blood is flowing to the pelvic area, which can raise libido for some and may also make you feel thirstier so keep fluids handy.
Round ligament twinges on one or both sides of the lower belly can occur as tissues stretch. They’re usually brief and settle with rest or a slower change of position.
Gums can feel swollen or bleed more easily due to pregnancy hormones. A soft toothbrush and gentle brushing can help.
Leukorrhoea, a thin, milky discharge, is normal and protective. Seek advice if discharge changes smell or colour, or if there’s itching or pain.
Many early symptoms begin to ease around now, but bloating, heartburn or constipation can still pop up as digestion remains a little slower.
💛Symptoms you might notice
Every pregnancy is different. These are common around week 13 — speak to your midwife if anything worries you.
Gum Sensitivity and Bleeding
Hormonal changes increase blood flow to the gums, making them tender. Brush gently with a soft brush, floss carefully and choose alcohol-free mouthwash.
Round Ligament Pain
Short, sharp twinges when standing, walking or rolling over are common. Move slowly, support the bump when turning and rest if aches flare.
Bloating, Constipation and Heartburn
Slower digestion can cause fullness and reflux. Eat small, frequent meals, sip fluids and limit rich, spicy or very acidic foods.
Headaches, Nosebleeds or Feeling Hot
Rising blood volume and hormones can trigger these. Hydrate, rest in a cool space and mention frequent or severe symptoms to a midwife or GP.
Dizziness
Stand up gradually and keep snacks and water nearby to steady blood sugar. Sit or lie down if you feel faint.
Leg Cramps and Swelling
Gentle stretches, walking, hydration and supportive footwear can ease calf cramps and minor swelling in hands or feet.
Ongoing Early Symptoms
Some people still notice morning sickness, food aversions, a stronger sense of smell and mood swings, these often settle as the second trimester begins.
✨Tips for week 13
Protect Against Infections
Avoid contact with chickenpox or rubella; speak to a midwife or GP promptly if exposed. To reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis, let someone else change the cat litter and avoid undercooked meats, cured meats like salami, and unpasteurised products. Seek advice before travel to Zika-affected areas.
Keep Teeth and Gums Healthy
You’re entitled to free NHS dental care during pregnancy and for 12 months after birth (with a maternity exemption certificate). Brush gently in small circles with a soft brush, rinse with water after vomiting, and use alcohol-free mouthwash.
Consider Telling your Employer
Many people share the news after the first scan. Once you do, you have maternity rights such as paid time off for antenatal care and the right to a workplace risk assessment.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Begin gentle daily squeezes, imagine stopping a wee mid-flow to support the bladder and reduce leaks when you coughs, laughs or sneezes.
Sex in Pregnancy
Sex is usually safe unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise. Follow comfort and desire, both low and high libido are normal at this stage.
Stay Active, Gently
Aim for around 150 minutes of moderate activity each week if comfortable. Even a brisk ten-minute walk supports mood, sleep and digestion.
Hydrate and Snack Smart
Increased thirst is common. Keep water nearby and choose balanced snacks such as fruit, yoghurt, nuts and whole-grain toast to steady energy and digestion.
Vitamin D and Healthy Eating
Continue a daily 10-microgram vitamin D supplement (particularly October–March) and focus on a colourful, balanced diet, no need to ‘eat for two’.
Watch for Red Flags
Contact a midwife or maternity unit urgently if you has heavy bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, or a sudden change in usual pregnancy symptoms.
Plan Ahead and Connect
Explore antenatal classes (local or online) to learn about birth and newborn care and to meet other parents-to-be.