Your baby graduates to fetus

What to expect this week

Your baby's graduating from embryo to fetus this week, trading reflexive twitches for more coordinated movements (elbows bend! knees kick!). They're still too small for you to feel anything, but they're practicing acrobatics in there.

Facial features are coming together, eyelids fuse shut (they'll reopen around week 28), and those adorable earflaps are settling into place. Inside the gums, tooth buds are forming for baby teeth that won't erupt for months after birth.

Body systems getting serious

• Kidneys start producing urine, which becomes amniotic fluid (yes, baby drinks and pees it in a continuous loop).
• Bone cells replace cartilage in the arms and legs, making movements sturdier.
• Diaphragm practices breathing motions, getting ready for that first cry.

Your uterus is about the size of a grapefruit, which might explain why your jeans feel snug even if you're not showing much. Some people notice a faint linea nigra (dark line) forming down their belly, it's just pregnancy hormones affecting skin pigment.

Things to be aware of this week

Morning sickness might be fading (finally), but don't worry if it lingers. Some people feel relief around week 11, while others have nausea well into the second trimester. Small, frequent meals and ginger can still help.

When to call about nausea or fatigue

• Can't keep anything down for 24 hours. Dehydration needs attention, especially with dizziness or dark urine.
• Severe fatigue interfering with daily life. Your provider may check iron levels or thyroid function.
• Suddenly feeling much better. While usually normal, some want reassurance after a loss.

Your blood volume is increasing rapidly, which can cause headaches or make you feel extra thirsty. Keep water nearby and rest when you can. Compression socks help if you notice swelling in your ankles.

What might happen soon

The nuchal translucency (NT) scan window is open if you're having one, typically between weeks 11–13. This ultrasound checks baby's neck fluid and can screen for certain conditions. You'll see your little one's profile and maybe catch some movement!

Your next prenatal visit is likely coming up, often around week 12. Many providers do the NT scan then if you're having it. You might hear baby's heartbeat on Doppler, though don't panic if it takes a minute to find, especially if your uterus tilts backward.

Paperwork and planning

• Ask about genetic screening options if you haven't yet
• Consider prenatal class signups (some fill early)

The NT scan was when it really hit me, there's a whole tiny person in there.