Week 12: All Systems Go

Your baby's now the size of a plum — all the necessary systems are developed and it's now time to grow and mature

By Dr Michelle LIM, Associate Consultant and Associate Professor Tan Thiam Chye, Visiting Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital

What's Happening to Your Baby?

Your baby is now the size of a small plum, with all the necessary systems developed. It's time now for the organs to move into place and start functioning. Your baby's kidneys will begin to excrete urine, while the digestive system is practising contraction movements. Fingers are curling and eyelids are fluttering as your little one's reflexes kick into gear. Your baby's brain is furiously developing as nerve cells multiply and synapses are formed. You should now be able to hear your baby's heartbeat through an ultrasound during your week 12 scan.

What's Happening to You?

Around this time your nausea might disappear as quickly as it came and you might find yourself hungrier than you could've ever imagined. Another piece of good news: your womb is now the size of a large grapefruit and it's migrating down towards your pelvis, which might lessen your urge to urinate. You might want to invest in a maternity bra for comfort and support as your tender breasts start to expand. Finally, you could consider revealing your exciting pregnancy news to friends and family if you haven't already.

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This article was last reviewed on 28 Jun 2021