The 11th week of pregnancy is the second to the last week in your first trimester. It’s an exciting time as your baby is growing and developing rapidly! As you enter Week 11, you can expect old and new symptoms to arise. And like with the previous (and future) weeks, it’s important to stay on top of your health and prepare well.
Here, we will discuss what to expect in terms of changes to your body. We will also talk about the development of your baby and tips for a healthy lifestyle.
Your Baby’s Development At Pregnancy Week 11
At this stage, your baby measures around 3.2 to 4 inches in length. They also weigh about 0.5 ounces- a significant growth from the previous week! Your growing baby is now about the size of a fig. The face is beginning to look more human, with eyelids forming and ears taking shape. The head is now covered in soft hair called lanugo. This hair will help keep them warm in the womb.
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby’s body is developing rapidly and starting to look more like a newborn’s. Their arms and legs are growing longer, with fingers and toes forming. Although at this point, the baby’s head accounts for around half their entire length. The internal organs are also continuing to develop. By now, the intestines have moved from the umbilical cord into the baby’s abdomen.
Changes To Your Body At Pregnancy Week 11
At this stage, changes to your body may start to become more visible as your uterus grows in size. However, you won’t be seeing any baby bump for now. You can expect a bit of weight gain, but your pregnant belly will likely not yet show. Many women can expect the following:
Brown Patches On Your Face
Some women may experience darkening of their skin, commonly known as the “mask of pregnancy” or melasma. This appears mainly on the face and neck in the form of brown patches. It is caused by an increase in the hormone melanin and should disappear after delivery.
Greasier Skin & Healthier Hair
Your skin may become more prone to breakouts due to increased oil production. You may also notice increased hair growth, which is due to an increase in hormones.
Bloating & Constipation
Due to the increased hormones in your body, you may experience bloating and constipation. Try to stay hydrated and increase your intake of fiber-rich foods to help reduce these symptoms.
Milky Vaginal Discharge
You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge as your hormones are changing. This is perfectly normal and should not be cause for alarm.
The Pregnancy Hormone Progesterone
Progesterone helps your body grown and prevents it from having contractions. This function protects your baby-to-be from miscarriage.
Common Symptoms At Week 11 Pregnancy
In addition to the physical changes, you may experience a range of pregnancy symptoms at 11 weeks pregnant. These things can be largely attributed to pregnancy hormones. These can include:
Nausea & Vomiting
Unfortunately, morning sickness usually doesn’t disappear until the end of the first trimester. It is important to stay on top of your health, drink plenty of fluids and eat small, frequent meals.
Fatigue
As your body adjusts to the changes it is going through, you may feel unusually tired and low on energy. Try to get enough rest, exercise regularly and eat healthy foods.
Heartburn & Indigestion
Hormonal changes can cause indigestion and heartburn. If these symptoms become too frequent or intense, consult your doctor for relief.
Breast Soreness
As your hormones continue to increase, you may experience breast tenderness or soreness. This is normal and should subside as the pregnancy progresses.
Heightened Sense Of Smell
At this stage, you may find yourself feeling particularly sensitive to smells. Try avoiding strong scents and pungent odors as much as possible.
Mood Swings
The hormonal changes in your body can cause mood swings. It is important to take time for yourself and practice stress-relieving activities. For example, you can try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
Newfound Preference Or Aversion To Certain Foods
The increased hormone levels may cause you to have a newfound preference or aversion to certain foods. As long as it’s not affecting your health, it is perfectly normal.
Light Spotting
Light spotting may occur in some women during the 11th week of pregnancy. This is usually nothing to worry about. However, if it becomes heavy or accompanied by severe cramps, contact your doctor immediately.
A Metallic Taste In Your Mouth
You may start to experience a metallic taste in your mouth due to hormonal changes. This is completely normal and not a matter or worry.
Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy At Week 11
At Week 11, it is important to take steps to ensure that both you and your baby remain healthy. Here are some tips for a healthy pregnancy:
1. Eat a well-balanced diet.
Ensure that you’re getting all the necessary nutrients you need. You can do so by eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. You can also eat more calcium-rich foods.
2. Exercise regularly.
Exercise is important for both you and your baby. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day.
3. Take prenatal vitamins.
Talk to your doctor about taking a daily prenatal vitamin to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
4. Avoid unhealthy activities.
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs.
5. Get enough rest.
Aim to get 8 hours of sleep each night to help recharge your body. Adequate rest can also reduce your stress levels.
6. Stay hydrated.
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. This will help keep you feeling energized and alert.
7. Attend your doctor’s appointments.
Be sure to attend all of your prenatal appointments and follow your doctor’s instructions. It’s important for pregnant women to consult a healthcare provider, especially if it’s their first pregnancy.
What Happens During Your Doctor’s Appointments?
At Week 11 of your pregnancy, you will likely have prenatal visits. During this appointment, your doctor will assess the health of both you and your baby. They may also order a blood test to screen for any potential genetic disorders.
Your doctor can answer any questions or concerns you might have. They can also provide guidance on how to best care for yourself during the remainder of your pregnancy.
These visits are crucial. After all, they allow your doctor to monitor the baby’s development. These appointments also help them take care of you.
To Wrap Up
Week 11 brings with it many changes. That includes fatigue, heartburn, indigestion, and a heightened sense of smell. You may also experience mood swings, light spotting and a metallic taste in your mouth.
It is important to ensure that both you and your baby remain healthy. Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take prenatal vitamins. In addition. attend all of your doctor’s appointments.
With proper care and attention, you can look forward to delivering a healthy baby in the weeks ahead. It is also essential to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your doctor. They are there to help and guide you through this exciting journey. Good luck!
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