Week 9 of Pregnancy
Your baby is about the size of a grape
Your Baby This Week
Development milestones for week 9
Your baby at 9 weeks pregnant is about the size of a grape, measuring nearly an inch long. The embryonic tail has disappeared, making your little one look more human every day. This week marks a major transition - your baby is officially becoming a fetus. All essential organs have started forming, and the heart is now beating steadily at around 170 beats per minute. Tiny fingers and toes are separating from their webbed state, becoming more distinct. Your baby's ears are taking shape on the sides of the head, and those little eyes - though still sealed shut - are fully formed beneath the developing eyelids. Muscles are beginning to develop, and your baby is starting to make small movements, though you will not feel them for several more weeks. The bones are beginning to harden from soft cartilage.
Your Body This Week
Changes you may experience
At 9 weeks pregnant, your body is still deep in first trimester mode. The hormone hCG peaks around now, which explains why nausea and fatigue often feel most intense. You might feel like you could sleep for days and still wake up exhausted. Your waistline may be thickening even though an obvious bump has not appeared yet. Pants might feel snug, and you may find yourself reaching for stretchy waistbands. Bloating adds to this effect. Headaches are common this week due to increased blood volume and hormonal changes. Mood swings can feel intense - crying at commercials, snapping at small annoyances, then feeling weirdly happy minutes later. This emotional rollercoaster is completely normal. Your body is going through massive changes even when you cannot see them.
Tips & Advice for Week 9
Practical guidance from real moms
If you have not started yet, now is the time to switch to pregnancy-safe products. Check your skincare for retinoids and salicylic acid - your provider can recommend alternatives. Be careful with cleaning products too; strong fumes can trigger nausea and some chemicals should be avoided. Invest in comfortable bras - your breasts may have grown a cup size already and will likely continue growing. Underwire might feel uncomfortable, so consider soft bralettes or nursing bras. Stay active if you can, even if it is just a short walk. Movement can actually help with fatigue and nausea. But listen to your body - if you need rest, take it. This is not the time to push through exhaustion. Start a pregnancy journal or take weekly photos if that appeals to you - you might want to look back on this journey.
Medical Guidance for Week 9
What to discuss with your healthcare provider
If you had an early ultrasound and saw a heartbeat, your miscarriage risk has dropped significantly. Genetic testing options like NIPT become available starting around now through week 10. Discuss screening options with your provider to understand what tests are available and whether they make sense for your situation. Report severe headaches that do not respond to rest and hydration, as well as any persistent dizziness or fainting.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.