Congratulations, mommy-to-be. Soon you will be completing your first trimester and entering the second one. Now that you’re 11 weeks pregnant, we are sure that there is a lot on your mind. You must have built a proper daily schedule by now and follow all the dos and don’ts as suggested by your doctor. Your body is undergoing a range of visible and internal transformations, from subtle to dramatic, and understanding these changes can help you better navigate the different stages of pregnancy.
So, let us read this article further and have a glance at the changes and developments happening with you and your baby.
How Big Is Your Baby At 11 Weeks Pregnant?
In the 11th week of pregnancy, your baby inside is growing rapidly. It is no longer called an embryo and has been upgraded to the level of a foetus. It measures around 41mm (about 2 inches) from head to bottom—roughly the size of a fig. The weight is around 1/3 ounce (8 grams).
Other key developments include:
- Knees, elbows and ankles are functional
- The liver is producing red blood cells
- Bones are stiffening
- Facial features are also developing gradually
11 Week Pregnancy Symptoms
Symptoms may vary from woman to woman. However, the common symptoms that a pregnant mum may experience are:
- Aches and pains around your bump
- Nausea
- Mood swings
- Metallic taste in your mouth
- Sore breasts
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Food cravings and aversions
- Heightened sense of smell
- White, milky vaginal discharge
What’s Happening In Your Body?
Dear pregnant mums, your body is prepping for the growing baby and pumping around 50% more blood than usual. You may start to notice a slight bump (for some women, it may be too early). The muscles and ligaments will stretch, and this might give you pain around the stomach, so buckle up! A new organ named the placenta will be taking over the task of feeding your baby inside. It will nourish the baby and remove extra waste. This transition of duties and organ switchover can make you feel dizzy, tired and overwhelmed. Stay strong, mommies-to-be!
Screening Tests in Early Pregnancy
Between the 11th and 13th weeks of pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan. This safe, non-invasive ultrasound measures the fluid behind your baby’s neck to assess the risk of certain chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).
Apart from genetic screening, the NT scan also gives an early look at your baby’s developing anatomy, helping doctors identify any potential structural concerns. While it does not provide a definitive diagnosis, it highlights whether your baby may be at increased risk for genetic disorders.
Conclusion
As you reach the mark of being 11 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly, and your body is adapting to support this new life. This stage may feel a mix of excitement and overwhelming, but it’s an important milestone in your journey. Keep prioritising your health, follow your doctor’s guidance, and give yourself the rest you deserve. Each week brings you closer to holding your little one in your arms.
