Week 12
What to expect at 12 weeks
At 12 weeks your baby is the size of a lime.
Digestive System
This week marks a turning point for your baby. At 12 weeks pregnant, the task of developing new bodily structures is nearing an end, as most of your baby’s systems are fully formed. Now comes the maintenance phase, during which your fetus’ systems continue to evolve for the next 28 weeks and the organs get to work. For one thing, the fetal digestive system is beginning to flex its muscles as it starts practising contraction movements, a skill your little peanut will need after birth to push food through the digestive tract. The bone marrow is busy making white blood cells — weapons that will one day help your baby fight infection.
Fetal Heartbeat
If you haven’t heard it already, this is the week where you will get to hear the baby’s heartbeat.
Your body at 12 weeks
Dizzy Spells
As you are nearing the end of your first trimester you might notice that some of those horrible first-trimester hormone problems are easing up. Your days on top of or in front of the toilet should be subsiding a bit along with the rest but just when you thought it was over a new one joins the mix. Dizzy spells. If you feel dizzy or faint, lie down or sit with your head lowered between your knees, take deep breaths and loosen any tight clothing. As soon as you feel a little better, get something to eat and drink.