In the week 12, your baby is
the size of an Lime
In Week 12 of pregnancy, your baby is growing rapidly; learn about your baby’s development, symptoms, and routine check-ups.
Welcome to Week 12 of pregnancy! Congratulations—you've made it through the first trimester! Many women start to feel a boost of energy as nausea and fatigue fade. Your baby is growing rapidly, and as your body adjusts, you can expect positive changes in the weeks ahead.
At Week 12, many women experience a reduction in the intensity of early pregnancy symptoms. However, there are still a few things to be aware of:
Morning sickness: For many women, nausea and vomiting start to ease around this time, though some may continue to experience mild symptoms.
Fatigue: You might still feel tired as your body adjusts to pregnancy, but energy levels often improve as you move into the second trimester.
Frequent urination: Your growing uterus continues to press on your bladder, making frequent trips to the bathroom common.
Headaches: Hormonal changes can trigger headaches during this week, especially if you’re dehydrated or stressed.
Increased vaginal discharge: Your body continues to produce more discharge as a way of protecting your reproductive system from infections.
At the twelfth week of pregnancy, your baby is roughly the size of a lime. This week marks significant progress as your baby’s body continues to develop and take shape.
Organ Development: By Week 12, your baby’s major organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys, are fully formed. The digestive system is active, and the kidneys are producing urine, which is excreted as amniotic fluid.
Physical Features: Your baby’s facial features are becoming clearer, with fully developed eyes (still closed), and the nose, ears, and mouth are taking shape. Tiny fingernails and toenails are forming.
Weight of the Foetus: At Week 12, your baby measures 2.13 inches (5.4 cm) and weighs about 14 grams. They are growing quickly and preparing for more rapid development in the second trimester.
Movement of the Baby: Your baby is moving their arms and legs, practising muscle tone and coordination. These movements are too subtle to be felt yet.
At 12 weeks, you’re starting a new chapter! Take care of yourself and embrace the amazing journey ahead.
At Week 12, your body is adapting to pregnancy changes. Expect some physical transformations, including changes in your breasts, skin, and energy levels as the second trimester begins.
Breasts: Your breasts may still feel tender and swollen as they prepare for breastfeeding. You might notice darkening of the areolas and small bumps around your nipples.
Skin, Hair and Nails: Pregnancy hormones and increased blood flow combine to create the radiant "pregnancy glow" many women notice. The higher blood volume boosts circulation, giving your skin a rosy, fuller appearance.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems: Your heart is working harder to supply blood to both you and your baby. This can make you feel warmer than usual or experience dizziness when standing up too quickly.
Uterus and Cervical Position: Your uterus is expanding to accommodate your growing baby, which might cause mild cramping or a sensation of pressure. This is normal unless the pain becomes severe or is accompanied by bleeding.
Vaginal Discharge: At Week 12, vaginal discharge may continue to increase. It's usually thin, milky, and odourless, helping to prevent infections. If the discharge has a strong odour, or unusual colour, or causes irritation, contact your healthcare provider.
Calm labour
Practice yoga or hypnotherapy techniques to ease stress and discomfort in abnormal labour.
Healthy gains
Gaining weight during pregnancy is normal, a gain of 11-14 kgs during 9 months is healthy.
Stay active
Exercising during your pregnancy is encouraged, practice antenatal yoga or brisk walking.
Health check-in
Get your vaccinations and treat infections to prevent miscarriage or preterm labour
Stay active
A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.
At Week 12, routine screenings are advised once a month to provide reassurance about your health & the baby’s development.
Weight and Blood Pressure
Your doctor will monitor your weight and blood pressure during your monthly prenatal visits to ensure healthy progress throughout your pregnancy.
Ultrasound
If this is your first scan, it’s an exciting moment—you’ll see your baby's tiny hands and feet and hear their heartbeat.
The ultrasound also includes a nuchal translucency assessment, which assesses the fluid at the back of your baby’s neck to help evaluate the risk of chromosomal conditions like Down’s, Edwards’, and Patau’s syndromes. Your doctor will guide you as needed.
Blood Tests
Aside from the routine blood tests to check for conditions like anaemia or infections, screening for Down’s syndrome, Edwards’ syndrome, and Patau’s syndrome may also be advised based on the ultrasound.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
This prenatal test is offered between 10 - 12 weeks to check for chromosomal abnormalities. While it doesn’t detect neural tube defects, it provides early insights and is typically recommended to ensure the best care for you and your baby.
Your baby is about the size of a lime, measuring around 2.13 inches long and weighing about 14 grams.
Yes, some fatigue is still common, but many women experience a surge in energy as they enter the second trimester.
Light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga are safe. Always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
You may be able to see your baby’s heartbeat and movements, and your doctor will check the development of your baby’s organs.
Travel is generally safe during the second trimester, but always consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy.
Focus on a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of folic acid, protein, healthy fats, and calcium-rich foods. Keep your meals balanced and varied.
Eat well, stay hydrated, and continue with any recommended supplements. Regular check-ups and gentle exercise will also help you maintain a healthy pregnancy.
At the twelfth week, the ultrasound is usually part of a combined screening test. During the scan, your healthcare provider will check your baby's size, measure nuchal translucency (fluid at the back of the baby’s neck), and confirm the pregnancy’s progress. You may see your baby’s head, body, and limbs on the screen, and you might even catch a glimpse of their tiny movements.
