At 12 weeks pregnant, the fetus is growing quickly. Size estimates vary, but the fetus may be roughly 5-9 cm long and can weigh up to about 20 grams. The face is becoming more recognizable, eyelids have formed and the major organs are continuing to mature.
The fetus can make small movements, bend fingers and toes, open and close the mouth and swallow small amounts of amniotic fluid. The placenta is now taking on more of the work of supporting the pregnancy, including hormone production and the exchange of oxygen and nutrients.
Week 12 follows 11 weeks pregnant and is still part of the first trimester. Next, read about 13 weeks pregnant, when many people begin to feel more settled as the first trimester nears its end.
Your lower belly may start to feel fuller as the uterus rises, but many people still do not look obviously pregnant at 12 weeks. Bloating can also make clothes feel tighter. How much you show depends on body type, muscle tone and whether this is your first pregnancy.
For some people, nausea and tiredness begin to ease as the placenta takes over more hormone production. For others, symptoms continue for several more weeks. Mood changes, worries about pregnancy, breast tenderness and increased sweating can still happen.
Depending on your country and provider, you may have a dating ultrasound or first trimester screening around this time. In the UK this may include a 12-week scan and screening discussion; in the US, options may include ultrasound, blood tests and genetic screening. Ask which tests are routine, which are optional and what the results can tell you.
At 12 weeks pregnant, the fetus is growing quickly, facial features are more recognizable, eyelids have formed and reflexes such as swallowing and small movements are developing.
Size estimates vary, but at 12 weeks the fetus may be roughly 5-9 cm long and can weigh up to about 20 grams. Ultrasound measurements may adjust your dates.
Yes. Most pregnancy calendars count 12 weeks pregnant as the first trimester, though the exact end of the first trimester may be described as week 12, 13 or 14 depending on the source.
Yes, your lower belly may start to look or feel fuller as the uterus rises, but many people still do not look obviously pregnant at 12 weeks. Showing varies by body type and pregnancy history.
Depending on your country and provider, you may be offered a dating scan, first trimester screening, blood tests or discussion of genetic screening options. Ask what each test checks and whether it is optional.
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