Week 12 of Pregnancy
Your baby is about the size of a lime (5.4 cm)
Your Baby This Week
Development milestones for week 12
At 12 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a lime - around 2 inches long and weighing half an ounce. This is a major milestone week. All of your baby's major organs and body systems are formed and functioning. From here, development shifts to growth and maturation. Your baby can now yawn, stretch, and make sucking movements. Reflexes are developing - if you could poke your belly during an ultrasound, you might see your baby respond by moving away. The digestive system is practicing contractions, and the bone marrow is beginning to produce white blood cells. Your baby's face is fully formed and looking more baby-like every day. The eyes have moved closer together, and the ears are in their final position. Fingers and toes have separated completely, and tiny nails are continuing to grow. Your baby is even growing fingertips with unique prints.
Your Body This Week
Changes you may experience
Welcome to the end of your first trimester - you made it through what many consider the hardest part. For many women, this week brings noticeable relief from morning sickness and fatigue. You might wake up one day and realize you actually feel decent. That energy boost people promised might finally arrive. Your uterus has risen above your pelvic bone, and a small bump may be visible - though first-time moms often show later. The risk of miscarriage drops significantly after week 12, which brings emotional relief for many parents who have been holding their breath. You might notice increased appetite as nausea fades. Heartburn and indigestion can begin as your growing uterus puts pressure on your digestive system. Some women experience stuffy nose or nosebleeds due to increased blood flow to mucous membranes.
Tips & Advice for Week 12
Practical guidance from real moms
Many parents choose to announce their pregnancy after the 12-week milestone. There is no right way to share your news - some make elaborate social media announcements, others tell people individually. Do whatever feels right for you and your partner. This is a good time to start researching maternity clothes. You might not need them quite yet, but understanding your options helps. Belly bands can extend the life of your regular pants while you transition. If you have been avoiding exercise due to nausea and fatigue, consider starting gentle movement again. Even short walks can help with the digestive issues that often ramp up now that morning sickness is fading. Start a bump photo series if you want to document your changing body. Looking back at your 12-week photo compared to week 40 is pretty incredible.
Medical Guidance for Week 12
What to discuss with your healthcare provider
If you had the NT scan, results should come back this week or soon. Discuss any results and next steps with your provider. The first trimester screening window closes at the end of week 14, so schedule any remaining tests promptly. As you enter the second trimester, prenatal appointments typically shift to monthly intervals. Report any bleeding, even light spotting, as well as severe headaches or vision changes.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.