Pregnancy Week by Week - Week 1 to 12The stages of pregnancy are often defined as trimesters, these are the first trimester, second trimester and third trimester. Each trimester has its own unique characteristics, so you will different depending on the stage of pregnancy. Detailed below is the first twelve weeks of pregnancy week by week: Week 1 and 2 - This is before conception and when your body is ovulating. You become pregnant when the egg is fertilized as it makes its way along the fallopian tubes. Week 3 - Once the egg is fertilized it moves along the fallopian tubes towards the uterus. You may start to experience one of the early signs of pregnancy which is spotting. Week 4 - During this week, your body goes into hyper drive as it begins to prepare itself ready for pregnancy. At this stage you may experience feelings of tiredness due to the increased hormones throughout your body. Week 5 - The first signs of your baby’s development begin to show during week five. You may also notice that your period is late and your breasts have started to swell. Week 6 - This is when your baby first starts to have a heart beat and other critical organs begin to form. You may also start to experience morning sickness. Week 7 - Your breasts will now be noticeably larger and the tiredness will continue to increase. The limbs of your baby have developed as buds and the brain is almost complete. Week 8 - Many women explain that it is during week eight that they first experience the sensation of cravings for foods they do not normally eat. The baby is continuing to develop, if you smoke or drink it is critical to stop. You will be now have noticed you are pregnant. Week 9 - During this week, you may notice slight changes to your skin. This is a result of the increase hormone levels in your body. Some women also experience dental problems during the early stages of pregnancy. Your baby will continue to develop and at this stage will have clearly defined fingers and toes. Week 10 - Although it is not noticeably to others that you are pregnant, you will now be experiencing many of the early symptoms of pregnancy. Your uterus will be around the size of an apple at this stage as your baby has grown to around 5cm long. Week 11 - The good news now is that the morning sickness may start to reduce. This is because you are now entering the second trimester. You may also be already experiencing renewed energy levels. Your body has grown used to becoming pregnant and has made most of the necessary changes required. Week 12 - This is the last week of the first trimester. You might feel comfortable telling other people that you are pregnant. If it is your first child, you may also be attending your first antenatal class this week, or at least preparing to. The baby weighs about 20 grams and is around 7cm long. Read more of our articles on pregnancy week by week Pregnancy Week by Week - Week 13 to 24 |