• Morning sickness: Nausea and vomiting are common and can happen at any time of day. Eating small, bland meals and staying hydrated might help ease the discomfort.
• Fatigue: Your body is working overtime to support your baby’s growth, so feeling tired is normal. Listen to your body and rest when you need to.
• Mood swings: Hormonal changes can make you feel emotional or irritable. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or gentle stretching to feel calmer.
• Frequent urination: Your growing uterus is pressing on your bladder, making you need to wee more often. Stay hydrated but avoid drinking too much before bedtime.
• Bloating and digestive changes: Hormones can cause your digestion to slow down. This leads to bloating and constipation too. Eating smaller meals and avoiding spicy or greasy foods may help. 
   

Baby's Growth in the Womb

• Organ Development: Your baby’s major organs, like the heart, brain, and liver, are developing further. The heart is now divided into four chambers and beats strongly. The digestive system and reproductive organs are also forming, though it’s too early to know the baby’s sex.
• Facial Features: Your baby’s face is becoming more detailed. The eyes are fully formed but remain closed. The nose, ears, and mouth are taking shape, making the baby’s features more recognisable.
• Weight of the Foetus: By Week 9, your baby is about 2.3 cm long, roughly the size of a grape. Your baby will weigh up to 27 grams. Although small, your baby is growing quickly and starting to develop tiny muscles.
• Movement of the Baby: Your baby is beginning to move their arms and legs, but you won’t feel it yet. These tiny movements are preparing your baby for life outside the womb.
   

Physiological Changes in Week 9 of Pregnancy

• Breasts: Hormones are causing your breasts to grow and feel tender. The nipples and areolas may darken, and small bumps on the areolas may appear. These changes are your body’s way of preparing for breastfeeding.
• Hair, Skin, and Nails: Pregnancy hormones can bring noticeable changes to your hair, skin, and nails. While some women enjoy thicker, shinier hair, others may experience hair shedding. Skin changes, like a radiant glow or acne, are common due to hormonal fluctuations.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems: Your heart is working harder to pump the increased blood volume needed to support your growing baby. This may leave you feeling warmer or flushed at times. Some women might experience occasional dizziness, so it’s a good idea to stand up slowly if you have been sitting for long periods and even when getting up from bed.
• Uterus and Cervical Position: At week 9 your uterus is about the size of an orange this week. Its growth may cause mild cramping, which is usually nothing to worry about unless it’s severe or comes with heavy bleeding.
• Vaginal Discharge: You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, called leukorrhea. It’s typically thin, milky, and odourless, helping to protect the vagina from infections. If the discharge has an unusual smell, colour, or is accompanied by itching, consult your healthcare provider.

• Ultrasound

If you have a scan this week, it will likely be transvaginal, providing clear images of your baby. You may hear your baby’s heartbeat, which is a memorable moment. You will be able to see the baby’s head, body and limbs.

• Blood Tests

Your doctor may check your hCG levels and screen for conditions like anaemia or infections. Routine tests help ensure both you and your baby are healthy.

• Weight and Blood Pressure

Regular checks of your weight and blood pressure are important to monitor your health throughout pregnancy.