10th Week of Pregnancy
What changes are occurring with your body?
Your uterus has continued to grow, but you still are probably not showing at this time. Some of you may be ready to share with everyone that you are pregnant, while others may still be adjusting to the idea of being pregnant. It is important to be open about your feelings with both your partner and your health care provider.*
What is happening with your baby?
This is the beginning of the fetal period when your baby's organs continue to grow and mature. The majority of his/her vital organs, kidneys, liver, brain, and lungs are functioning, but will continue to mature throughout the remainder of your pregnancy.
Your baby's head makes up half the length of the body, and there is a bulge in the forehead allowing for brain development. Fingernails, toenails, and hair will begin to become visible this week. The fingers are no longer webbed. The baby is actively swallowing amniotic fluid and kicking his/her legs.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is approximately 2 inches long, about the size of a lime, and weighs about a quarter of an ounce.*
What should you plan for this week?
Your second prenatal visit will occur between weeks 12 and 16. During this visit your healthcare provider may perform an ultrasound/sonogram allowing you to see your baby for the first time. Some women elect to obtain a commemorative sonogram photo. Before doing this, check the commercial sonogram safety checklist and discuss this with your health care provider. Your doctor may use a Doppler stethoscope to detect your baby's heartbeat.
Your doctor may also discuss "quickening" with you. Quickening is the first fetal movement felt by the mother. This is often described as "flutters" and might be felt as early as 13-16 weeks.
Tips for making your pregnancy better:
Even though you are pregnant, there are a wide variety of activities that you can participate in to stay in shape. Whether you were active before pregnancy or not, you need to consult with your health care provider on what kinds of activities are best suited for you. Many healthcare providers recommend walking and swimming because they are low impact exercises that can be used throughout the entire pregnancy.
Tips for mom’s partner:
Mom will be encouraged to exercise on a regular basis. Talk with her and see if there are exercises or activities that the two of you can do together.
Some activities you can do as a couple include:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Golf
The important thing is that you are spending time together while exercising.
* The information that the American Pregnancy Association provides is used as a general guide for healthy pregnancy development, although development may vary due to the mother’s health or a miscalculation of ovulation. Each woman and pregnancy is unique and may be experienced differently. Remember that babies develop at different rates, even before they are born. The purpose of this developmental information is to give you a general idea of how your baby is growing, and you must remember that your baby’s growth may vary from that which is outlined.