Pregnancy week by week · trimester 1
🍋 12 weeks pregnant: your baby is about the size of a lime
At 12 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a lime, reflexes are developing and tiny fingers can curl. Many mums have their dating scan around now.
Your baby this week
Your baby is around the size of a lime, about 5.4cm long and roughly 14g. Reflexes are developing, so your baby can curl their fingers and toes, and may even startle if they are nudged. The face has a clearer profile, with a chin and a little nose. Muscles in the gut are practising the movements that will one day help digest milk. Most of the organs are working, and your baby will spend the coming months growing bigger and stronger.
You this week
For many mums, this is the week sickness starts to ease and a little energy returns, though everyone is different. Your womb is now growing up and out of your pelvis, so you may need the loo slightly less often. Some mums notice dizziness, headaches, or skin changes. Seeing your baby on the screen at the scan can bring a big wave of feelings. Whatever you feel, it is okay.
Kind things to do this week
- Bring your partner or a friend to your scan if you would like support.
- You can stop folic acid after 12 weeks if your midwife agrees, but keep vitamin D going.
- Ask for a scan photo if you would like one; some hospitals charge a small fee.
Appointments around now
Your dating scan is usually offered between 11 and 14 weeks. If you chose combined screening, it involves a blood test and a measurement taken at the scan.
Questions to ask your midwife
- What do my screening results mean, and what happens next?
- Has my due date changed after the scan?
When to call your midwife or maternity unit
Please call your GP, midwife or NHS 111 if you have any bleeding, tummy pain that does not settle (especially low down on one side), or you are being sick so often you cannot keep fluids down. You are never wasting anyone's time.
OBubba from bump to baby
Follow your pregnancy week by week, free.
OBubba is free through pregnancy, with a weekly update, kick counting and contraction timing. On the day your baby arrives, the same app becomes your baby tracker.
Questions
Is it safe to announce my pregnancy at 12 weeks?
Many families share their news after the dating scan, but there is no rule. Tell people when it feels right for you.
How big is my baby at 12 weeks?
Around 5.4cm from head to bottom, about the size of a lime, and weighing around 14g.
Not sure how far along you are? Use the due date calculator.
Sources
OBubba gives general information. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Your midwife and maternity unit are always the right people to ask, any time of day or night.