Pregnancy week 13

Your baby’s development

In the last week of the first trimester the baby is about as big as a peach, 7.4 cm long and weighing around 23 grams. Body proportions even out: the legs lengthen and, although the head is still large, it looks better matched to the trunk. Unique fingerprints form on the fingertips; these patterns will stay the same for life. The vocal cords develop, though the baby cannot make sounds yet. The baby moves by bending its arms and legs, and sometimes sucks a thumb. The bowel prepares for digestion and the material that will form the first stool starts to build up. The ovaries or testes begin to settle in position. Bone marrow gets ready to take part in making blood cells. The placenta now carries the full job of nourishing the baby and keeping hormones in balance. The skull bones keep hardening. In the coming weeks the baby will grow noticeably, its movements will strengthen, and you will get closer to feeling them. By the end of this week the first three months will be behind you, and the baby's most critical period of formation will be complete.

Changes in the mother

For many, week 13 is the end of the first three months and a transition as symptoms ease. Energy rises, nausea often fades, and mood settles. The belly slowly shows; in this or the coming weeks you may notice for the first time that you look pregnant. Skin pigmentation (on the face or a dark line down the middle of the belly) can appear and usually fades after birth. Using sunscreen helps. As the ligaments that support the womb stretch, you may feel brief sharp pulls at the side of the groin or leg, especially with sudden movement. Changing position usually eases it. If your first-trimester screening has not been done yet, it is good to plan it by the end of this week; in Turkey the first check-up is recommended by week 14 at the latest. Make time for rest too; on days you feel good, keeping a balance is worth more than pushing yourself.

To do this week

• If the first-trimester screening or first check-up is missing, complete it this week.
• Start using sunscreen.
• Look at maternity clothes or stretchy waistbands.
• If you work, find out the notification and leave procedures.

Tip for the partner

Enjoy the easing phase together with a small celebration or a walk; there is no rush for baby shopping yet.

Nutrition tip

If your appetite is back, build a plate of colourful vegetables and fruit; the extra calorie need is still very small.