12 Weeks Pregnant
What’s happening this week
You’re now 12 weeks pregnant. If you usually travel by car, read some considerations about using the seatbelt.
How is my baby developing?
At 12 weeks pregnant, the most dramatic changes in your baby occur in the brain. As the nerve cells develop, your baby is capable of spontaneous movements and can feel pain.
His face looks human, and your baby can open and close his mouth, suck, yawn, and swallow amniotic fluid. Fingers and toes are completely separate from nails, and external genitals are developed to determine if it’s a boy or a girl.
Your baby is about 55 mm in length and weighs about 12-14 grams. The umbilical is now formed, but it will continue to grow during pregnancy to ensure that it supports the baby’s growing needs.
How is my body changing?
The good news this week is that, at 12 weeks pregnant, your risk of miscarriage lowers dramatically from now on. This is the right moment to share the news about your pregnancy with family and friends.
You’re developing 12 weeks pregnant symptoms and you’re finally starting to show (you may show earlier if this is not your first pregnancy) and you may need to invest in some maternity clothes.
Your healthcare provider is now able to feel the top of your uterus, which is moving out of your pelvis and expanding into your abdomen. It will also increase in weight from 2 ounces to about 2 pounds.
The amazing part is that it will return to its original position and size within a few weeks after delivery. An interesting symptom at 12 weeks pregnant is skin changes.
For example, freckles may become darker as well as your nipples. You may also have noticed brown patches on your chin, cheeks or forehead.
Your skin is also much more sensitive during pregnancy, so make sure you use adequate protection in the sun, but try to use chemical-free products. Always check the label.
Your safety in the car: is the seat belt safe during pregnancy?
As you get on during your pregnancy you may start to wonder if it’s safe to use a seat belt while traveling in a car.
It’s essential that you ALWAYS use a seat belt to protect you and your unborn baby in case of an accident.
To correctly fit a seat belt while pregnant, place your lap belt underneath your bump and keep snug (but not uncomfortable), and shoulder strap between your breasts, resting on your chest.
