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Week 14 of Pregnancy

Your baby is growing quickly! At week 14, embrace your energy boost, track changes, and focus on a healthy routine for you both.

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Week 14 Pregnancy Symptoms

By Week 14 of pregnancy, many changes are underway. Here’s what you can expect:

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  • Morning Sickness: For many women, morning sickness becomes a thing of the past by this point. However, if you still experience occasional nausea, don’t worry—it’s likely to improve in the coming weeks. Eating small, frequent meals can help manage symptoms.
  • Change in Appetite: As your baby grows and your body needs more energy, you may notice an increase in appetite or specific food cravings. To support your baby’s development, opt for nutritious snacks like fruits, nuts, or whole grains between meals.
  • Round Ligament Pain: The growth of your uterus may cause pulling or stretching sensations in your lower abdomen, known as round ligament pain. This is a normal part of pregnancy. Gentle stretches and adequate rest can help ease the discomfort.
  • Breast Growth with Less Tenderness: While your breasts continue to grow and change—such as darker areolas and more sensitive nipples—you may notice that they are less tender compared to the first trimester.
  • Decreasing Fatigue: With the placenta fully developed, you’re likely feeling more energetic. This is a great time to start preparing for your baby and tackling tasks that require focus.
  • Varicose Veins: Increased blood volume during pregnancy can lead to swollen veins, particularly in the legs. While they may be hereditary, wearing support stockings, staying active, and walking regularly can help minimize their appearance.

Your Baby in Week 14

Though you might not feel it, your baby is moving and constantly developing inside you. Let us take a look:

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Baby's Growth in the Womb

  • Organ Development: By Week 14, your baby’s organs are functioning and maturing steadily. The kidneys are producing urine, and the liver is making bile. Your baby’s thyroid gland starts producing hormones, contributing to overall growth and development.
  • Physical Features: Your baby’s face is becoming more detailed. The ears are in their final position, and the eyes continue to move closer together. Tiny facial muscles are developing, allowing your baby to practice expressions like frowning or squinting.
  • Weight of the Foetus: Your baby is now about the size of a kiwi fruit, measuring around 9 cm in length and weighing approximately 45 grams. This period marks a rapid growth phase, with your baby gaining more weight and filling out
  • Movement of the Baby: Although you may not feel it yet, your baby is becoming more active. They’re stretching, kicking, and even twisting inside the womb. These movements help strengthen muscles and joints. They may also begin sucking their thumb, preparing for life outside the womb.

Here is what your baby looks like

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At 14 weeks, your baby is growing rapidly. This is an exciting time as many moms feel better and can focus on a healthy pregnancy.

Dr. Veena H

Your Body in Week 14 of Pregnancy

At Week 14, your body adjusts to the second trimester with growing energy, fewer early symptoms, and exciting changes as your baby develops. 
 

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Physiological Changes During Week 14 of Pregnancy

  • Breasts: Your breasts may continue to grow and feel fuller, with veins more visible due to increased blood flow. Tenderness often subsides, making this stage more comfortable than earlier weeks.
  • Hair, Skin, and Nails: Hormonal changes may make your hair appear thicker and shinier while reducing hair shedding. Your nails may grow faster but could also become more brittle. Skin changes like a "pregnancy glow," dark patches (melasma), or stretch marks on your tummy, thighs, or breasts are common.
  • Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems: You might feel mild breathlessness as your body increases oxygen supply. Rising blood volume makes your heart pump faster, and veins may appear more visible on your breasts and legs due to improved circulation.
  • Uterus and Cervical Position: By Week 14, your uterus has grown beyond the pelvic area and is about the size of a grapefruit. It can now be felt just above the pubic bone. As it expands, your belly may start to show, especially if this isn’t your first pregnancy.
  • Vaginal Discharge: An increase in thin, clear, or milky white discharge is normal and helps prevent infections. This discharge is typically odourless and harmless.

TopTips for Week 40

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Labor check-up

If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis

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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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Dental hygiene

Having healthy teeth and gums matters as poor dental care is linked to premature labour.

Medical Scans and Check-ups

Your routine check-up this week will likely involve monitoring your blood pressure, weight, and urine for any potential concerns.

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  • Ultrasound

    Most second-trimester ultrasounds are scheduled between Weeks 18-20 of pregnancy. However, your doctor may recommend one if they have specific concerns. If you do have an ultrasound, it will provide a clear view of your baby’s growing features and development.

  • Blood Tests

    Our healthcare provider may recommend blood tests to check for anaemia and ensure adequate iron levels. If you haven’t done so already, this week might also include optional screening tests for genetic conditions like Down syndrome.

  • Glucose Screening

    This test detects gestational diabetes, a temporary type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy. If left untreated, it may cause complications for the baby. The test involves drinking a sugary liquid, followed by a blood test an hour later to measure glucose levels. It is typically performed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy but may be done earlier for women at higher risk.

FAQs

Can I feel my baby move at Week 14? 

Not yet. Most women start feeling baby movements between Weeks 16 and 25, but your baby is already moving actively inside.

How big is my baby at Week 14? 

Your baby is about the size of a Kiwi, measuring 9 cm and weighing around 45 grams.

What symptoms should I expect at this stage? 

Common symptoms include increased energy, round ligament pain, and changes in appetite or skin. Most early pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, tend to subside.

Is it safe to travel during Week 14? 

Yes, the second trimester is often considered the safest time to travel. However, always consult your healthcare provider before planning a trip.

What foods should I focus on eating?

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy is essential. Avoid raw or undercooked foods, unpasteurised dairy, and high-mercury fish.

Can I continue exercising at Week 14? 

Yes, as long as your doctor approves, you can engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. These activities help keep you fit and prepare your body for labour.

Will my morning sickness completely disappear by now? 

For many women, morning sickness fades by Week 14, but some may continue to experience mild nausea. If it persists, discuss it with your doctor.

Is spotting normal at Week 14 of pregnancy?

Light spotting can occasionally occur at Week 14 due to cervical changes or increased blood flow to the area. However, it’s important to monitor the situation. If the spotting is heavy, accompanied by cramping, or lasts for an extended period, contact your healthcare provider to ensure everything is progressing safely.