Congratulations! You have made it through the first trimester, and your baby has officially entered the fetal period. At 12 weeks old, your little one is growing and developing at lightning speed, and you might be surprised to see some of the changes happening right before your eyes.
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Physical Development
At this stage, your baby is about the size of a lime and weighs approximately half an ounce. Their nose, lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are fully formed, and their fingers and toes are separated. Their tiny arms and legs are moving around like crazy, and they might even be able to open and close their fists.
Your baby’s digestive system is starting to work, and they might even start to swallow a bit of amniotic fluid. Their kidneys are also producing urine, which is released back into the amniotic fluid.
One of the most exciting developments at this stage is that your baby’s sex is now distinguishable. However, it might still be too early to tell for sure, so don’t go painting the nursery just yet.
Mental and Emotional Development
While it might seem like your baby is just a tiny ball of cells, they are already developing mentally and emotionally. At 12 weeks old, your baby’s brain is starting to produce millions of neurons every minute, and their primitive senses are beginning to mature.
Your baby can already sense light, touch, and sound, and they might even respond to external stimuli by moving around. They are also starting to develop their own sleep-wake cycle, which means they might be more active at certain times of the day than others.
What To Expect
At this stage, you might start to notice some physical changes in your own body as well. Your morning sickness might start to ease up, and you might even have a bit more energy. You might also notice that your belly is starting to grow, and your clothes might start to feel a bit tight.
It’s important to continue taking good care of yourself and your growing baby. Make sure you’re eating a healthy, balanced diet, getting plenty of rest, and staying active. You should also be scheduling regular prenatal appointments with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
A: Yes, in most cases, exercise is safe and even beneficial during pregnancy. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.
Q: Can I still have sex while I’m pregnant?
A: Yes, sex is generally safe during pregnancy as long as there are no complications. However, it’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Q: When should I start shopping for baby gear?
A: It’s never too early to start thinking about what you’ll need for your new arrival, but you might want to wait until after your 20-week ultrasound to start purchasing items.
Q: What should I do if I’m feeling anxious or depressed during pregnancy?
A: It’s normal to experience a range of emotions during pregnancy, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you come up with a plan to manage your stress and anxiety.
Q: When can I expect to feel my baby move?
A: Most women start to feel their baby’s first movements between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. However, if you haven’t felt any movement by 24 weeks, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know.