Perhaps you’ve been looking forward to the 12th week of pregnancy, because it marks the end of the 1st trimester—and with it, the most critical phase of pregnancy. Any discomfort may begin to ease now, and you’ve probably already started to get used to the idea of becoming a mother. In this article, you’ll learn how your baby’s development continues and what matters most this week.

How big is your baby in the 12th week of pregnancy?

In week 12 of pregnancy, your baby is about 5 centimeters long—roughly the size of a plum. During an ultrasound this week, you might even see your little one doing somersaults. Movements of the eyelids and mouth are now visible too.

12th week of pregnancy: What's changing for you

In the 12th week of pregnancy, the time has finally come: your body has adjusted to the hormonal changes, and unpleasant side effects such as fatigue and nausea are gradually easing.

Your uterus is already about the size of a clenched fist this week. Very slim women may even be able to feel it above the pubic bone. As it grows, the uterus begins to press on surrounding organs, which can cause heartburn for some pregnant women. To help prevent the uncomfortable burning sensation—or at least reduce it—pay attention to the following:

• Eat several small meals instead of a few large ones

• Eat slowly and chew well

• Avoid acid-promoting foods

• Eat nothing for three to four hours before sleeping

• Do not wear restrictive clothing

• Sleep on your left side

More about the causes of heartburn and tips to prevent it can be found in the article "".

Your skin pigmentation may also change: freckles, pigmentation spots, and nipples often become darker during pregnancy, and you may become more sensitive to the sun—so be sure to use proper sun protection and stay in the shade when the sun is strong. For some women, the so-called Linea Nigra , a dark, vertical line, begins to form across the lower abdomen. These skin changes are harmless and not a cause for concern. They are due to hormonal changes and usually disappear shortly after childbirth.

12th week of pregnancy: Development of your baby

This week, your baby’s brain and muscles develop in parallel. As a result, your little one is now learning to coordinate previously unconscious movements more and more. Sucking and swallowing reflexes are also now developed. Your baby can suck its thumb and drink amniotic fluid. This may cause hiccups from time to time—and it won’t be long before you can even feel them. The fetus’s bladder is already functioning too, and because it is excreting urine, the amniotic fluid is constantly being replaced.

Your baby’s heart beats at 120 to 160 beats per minute in the 12th week of pregnancy. Fingers and toes are already clearly recognizable. The thyroid gland is starting to function and begins producing its first hormones. This week, the placenta has fully taken over your baby’s supply.

Time for positive experiences

Many expectant mothers breathe a sigh of relief in the 12th week of pregnancy: if you’ve been dealing with severe nausea, your appetite may finally return. Increased blood flow can also give you fuller hair and plumper-looking skin, and you may feel more energetic again. Most women especially enjoy the second trimester. You may feel comfortable in your pregnant body, and at the same time, your belly usually isn’t large enough to feel restrictive—so many related symptoms, such as back pain or sleep disturbances, may still be absent at this stage.

Couples often consciously enjoy and cherish the 2nd trimester together. A wonderful opportunity for a shared break—one that’s becoming increasingly popular among expectant parents—is the babymoon. Many providers and accommodations focus specifically on pregnant women and their partners, offering wellness vacations tailored to their needs. Tips for the last vacation just for the two of you can be found in the article „ “. Of course, it doesn’t always have to be a trip: also the , a for your partner, or choosing the first baby romper now gives you the opportunity to share your anticipation together.

Announcing the pregnancy

You probably already know this: once you reach the end of the 12th week of pregnancy, the first critical period is over. The risk of miscarriage decreases significantly, and the pregnancy is considered "safe." That’s why it’s often said that women should wait until after the 12th week of pregnancy before announcing it to those around them. Of course, you don’t have to wait that long if you want to share the news with friends and family earlier. However, if you’ve decided to wait for the first three months, you may now be thinking about how to share the joyful news with those around you. A creative idea is shown by DIY blogger Steffie from in the video:

This is now important

• Your thyroid begins to grow around the 12th week of pregnancy, as it produces more hormones. This, in turn, increases your iodine requirement. This trace element is found, for example, in seafood such as mackerel, coalfish, and cod. So feel free to include cooked fish more often in your diet to meet your increased iodine needs. Alternatively, you can also get iodine from dairy products, eggs, or green vegetables like broccoli or spinach.

• Don't be alarmed if you notice increased whitish discharge now. This happens because your vagina has increased blood flow and therefore secretes more fluid.
  Only if the discharge looks greenish or brown and has an unpleasant smell should you consult your doctor to rule out an early infection.

• By the end of this week at the latest, it’s time for the second check-up. You can have this done either by your midwife or by your gynecologist.
  

With our pregnancy calendar, we want to accompany you through this exciting time and provide you with relevant information, created in exchange with our
LILLYDOO experts. Nevertheless, the information listed here can
never replace personal advice from your doctor or midwife. Always contact your healthcare professional with questions and for professional care.