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Week 11 of Pregnancy

In Week 11 of pregnancy, your baby’s growth accelerates! Expect new symptoms, changes in your body, and key milestones as you progress through this stage.

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Week 11 Pregnancy Symptoms

Week 11 brings a mix of familiar and new symptoms as your body continues to adjust to pregnancy. Here’s what to expect as you navigate this stage of your journey.
 

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  • Nausea and Vomiting: Many women find that nausea starts to ease this week. However, if you’re still feeling queasy, eating small, frequent meals and avoiding strong smells might help.
  • Fatigue: You’re growing a tiny human, which takes a lot of energy! Fatigue may still be present, so prioritise rest and try taking short naps if needed.
  • Increased Vaginal Discharge: You might notice a clear or white discharge called leucorrhoea. This is normal and helps protect against infections. If the discharge has a strong odour, is yellow or green, or causes itching, talk to your doctor.
  • Bloating and Gas: Hormonal changes can slow digestion, leading to bloating and gas. Drinking water, eating fibre-rich foods, and light exercise may ease discomfort.
  • Mood Swings: Hormonal shifts might make your emotions unpredictable. Gentle exercise, mindfulness practices, or talking with loved ones can help balance your mood.

Your Baby in Week 11

Your baby is growing rapidly and undergoing significant development. With key organs and features forming, your little one is starting to look more like a tiny human!
 

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Baby’s Growth in the Womb

  • Organ Formation: If your baby is a girl, ovaries are beginning to develop. Your baby’s head accounts for about half of his body length. The liver is producing red blood cells, and the kidneys are beginning to produce urine. Tiny taste buds are also developing on the tongue.
  • Physical Features: The face is becoming more defined. The eyes are wide apart, nearly shaped ears, open nostrils, a forming tongue and palate, and visible nipples are forming. Hair follicles are forming all over your baby’s body, not just on the head. Tiny hands and feet now have separate fingers and toes, with the webbing completely gone.
  • Weight of the Foetus: At Week 11, your baby is now slightly over 4 cm long (a little more than 1.5 inches) and weighs around 7 grams. They've been busy growing and developing rapidly this week! Though small, they are growing quickly every day.
  • Movement of the Baby: Your baby’s hands and feet are fully separated and they are moving to the front of the body. They may be opening and closing their fists. Your baby’s body is straightening, and the torso is growing longer—almost like a yoga stretch! Your little one can now try out moves like stretching, somersaults, and forward rolls.
     

Here is what your baby looks like

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At Week 11, your baby’s growth is rapid! Embrace the changes, take care of yourself, and cherish this beautiful journey ahead.

Dr. Veena H

Your Body in Week 11

At Week 11, your body adjusts to pregnancy changes as your baby grows rapidly, with new physical signs of the approaching second trimester.

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Physiological Changes During Week 11 of Pregnancy

  • Breasts: Hormonal shifts might make your breasts feel tender and fuller. Wearing a supportive bra can help with discomfort.
  • Skin, Hair and Nails: You might notice a “pregnancy glow” due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes. Some women also develop darker skin patches, known as melasma. Many women experience thicker, shinier hair due to reduced hair shedding.
  • Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems: You might notice mild breathlessness as your body adjusts to increased oxygen demands. Hormonal changes can also cause nasal congestion or a feeling of a stuffy nose. Your blood volume continues to rise, increasing the workload on your heart.
  • Uterus and Cervical Position: Your uterus is now about the size of a grapefruit. You may start to notice a small baby bump, especially if this isn’t your first pregnancy. The placenta is also developing and attaching to the uterine wall. Its position is typically in the upper part of the uterus, though it can vary.
  • Vaginal Discharge: You may notice more vaginal discharge at Week 11, known as leukorrhea. It’s usually thin, milky, and odourless, helping to prevent infections.
     

TopTips for Week 11

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Childbirth prep

Enrol yourself in prenatal courses to learn different labour stages and what to expect.

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Eat Healthy

Make sure to add variety in your meals to get energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals

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Preterm signs

If you suspect early labour, read up on premature delivery and baby care essentials.

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Prenatal guide

Attend all your prenatal appointments like vaccinations, tests, ultrasounds
to track vitals 

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Stay active 

A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.

Medical Scans and Check-Ups 

Routine check-ups are important at this stage. Here’s what you might expect:
 

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  • Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan

This ultrasound measures the thickness of the fluid at the back of your baby’s neck. It helps assess the risk of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. The scan is usually done between 11 and 14 weeks.

  • Blood Tests

Your doctor may recommend combined first-trimester screening, which includes a blood test and an NT scan. This evaluates the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities.

  • Routine Checks

Your healthcare provider will monitor your weight, blood pressure, and urine. These checks help ensure both you and your baby are healthy.
 

FAQs

How big is my baby at Week 11?

Your baby is about 4.1 cm long and weighs around 7 grams—roughly the size of a fig.

What symptoms are common at Week 11?

You might experience nausea, fatigue, increased vaginal discharge, and mood swings. Some women also notice bloating and breast tenderness.

Can I exercise during Week 11?

Yes, light exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga are safe. Avoid high-impact activities and consult your doctor before starting a new routine.

Is it normal to feel emotional at Week 11?

Yes, hormonal changes can affect your mood. Talk to loved ones or try relaxation techniques to manage stress.

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid raw or undercooked meats, unpasteurised dairy, and high-mercury fish. Limit caffeine and focus on a balanced diet.

Can I travel during Week 11?

Travel is usually safe in early pregnancy. Stay hydrated, take breaks to stretch, and consult your doctor before long trips.

Is spotting normal at Week 11 of pregnancy?

Light spotting can be normal, but it's important to contact your doctor if it’s heavy or accompanied by cramps. Spotting can occur due to implantation or cervical changes, but it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider.

How is my body changing at Week 11 of pregnancy?

At Week 11, you may notice increased blood flow, causing mild breathlessness and visible veins. Your hair might become thicker, and you may have a "pregnancy glow." These changes are normal as your body adapts to support your baby.