Your baby enters the fetal period

What to expect

Your baby’s big week. This week marks the end of the embryonic period and the start of the fetal period. Your baby now officially looks more like a tiny human than an embryo. Their tiny fingers and toes are separating, and their facial features are becoming more defined.

Movements are starting. While you won’t feel it yet, your baby is beginning to move around inside the womb. These early movements are slow and gentle, but they’re a sign that their nervous system is developing.

Your body’s changes. Your uterus is now about the size of a grapefruit, which might make your belly feel fuller or slightly rounder. Hormones are still surging, which can leave you feeling tired or queasy, but many people start to feel a bit more energy around this week.

• Teeny tiny teeth. Tooth buds are forming under the gums, though they won’t poke through until way after birth.
• Digestive development. Your baby’s intestines are moving into their abdominal cavity now, where they’ll stay.
• Eyelids and ears. Tiny eyelids are forming, and the ears are starting to look more like ears.

Things to be aware of

Fatigue and nausea. These symptoms might still be hanging around, but for many, they start to ease up around this week. Hang in there, relief could be on the horizon.

Spotting. A little spotting can be normal, but it’s always worth mentioning to your provider, especially if it’s accompanied by cramping or gets heavier.

Food aversions. You might still have strong reactions to certain smells or tastes. This is your body’s way of protecting you from potential toxins, even if it feels overprotective right now.

What might happen

Your first ultrasound. If you haven’t had one yet, many providers schedule an ultrasound around this time. This is your chance to see your baby, hear their heartbeat, and make sure everything’s on track.

Genetic testing options. Around this week, your provider might bring up genetic screening tests, like the NIPT (non-invasive prenatal testing) or CVS (chorionic villus sampling). These can give you more information about your baby’s health.

• Schedule your first-trimester screening if you haven’t already
• Ask your provider about genetic testing options
• Start planning for your second trimester

Seeing that tiny heartbeat was the most incredible moment. It made everything feel so real.