12 weeks of pregnancy woman's well-being. Colds. SARS, fever, flu. Can I take antibiotics? Food poisoning - what to do

The 12th week of pregnancy is a particularly long-awaited date for the expectant mother. This is the end of the first trimester, which traditionally brings a woman a lot of discomfort, associated primarily with toxicosis. Also in gynecology and obstetrics, the first 12 weeks are considered to be especially dangerous for the fetus, when the development of pathologies and the associated termination of pregnancy are most possible. Therefore, 12 weeks is the milestone that indicates the viability of the unborn child and serves as a kind of catalyst for a normal pregnancy.

Signs at 12 weeks of pregnancy

The most difficult period associated with the development of the fetus, the formation of all its vital organs, is behind us. Now the doctor can examine the child in the uterine cavity not only using the intravaginal ultrasound diagnostic method, but also in the traditional way. For a woman, with the arrival of the 12th week, a particularly pleasant period begins: toxicosis makes itself felt less and less often, the size of the abdomen still allows you to lead a normal lifestyle and move actively, and worries about the correct development of the baby cease to be so alarming for objective reasons.

What happens to the mother and what sensations does she experience at 12 weeks of pregnancy?

The woman’s well-being improves, and previously unknown sensations appear:

• • toxicosis recedes;
  • less drowsiness and irritability;

• a good appetite appears. At this time, Libra will most likely show the first noticeable weight gain;
• psychologically, the woman already realizes that she is pregnant and begins to subconsciously prepare for childbirth and a new status;
• if this is not the first pregnancy, the first movements of the fetus may make themselves felt (for the first pregnancy this date will come a little later).

Changes in the mother's body at 12 weeks of pregnancy

From now on, not only the woman herself, but also those around her can notice obvious transformations in her:

• the uterus has grown in width by about 10 cm, and now it does not fit in the hip area, but gradually occupies the abdominal cavity: you can already notice a small tummy;
• the load on the kidneys, heart and liver increases, so exacerbations of chronic diseases in these areas are likely;
• intestinal motility decreases, which causes constipation;
• amniotic fluid is renewed every day, approximately now there is already 50 ml;
• the volume of circulating blood has increased: the heart beats faster, blood pressure rises;
• a light stripe appears in the lower abdomen, which usually becomes thicker and darker by the time of childbirth, and disappears already in the first year after delivery;
• frequent urge to urinate ceases to bother the woman until the last months of pregnancy;
• pigmentation may appear;
• The chest becomes very full.

What happens to the baby at the 12th week of pregnancy. Fetus.

Gynecologists no longer call the unborn child an embryo, but a fetus. He is visually already very similar to a person, although his head is not yet proportional to the body, and he can be seen with ultrasound diagnostics.

• • Fetal development at 12 weeks of pregnancy

The length of the fetus has already grown to 6-9 cm. From now on, its growth will steadily increase, which for doctors is an important criterion for proper intrauterine development.

All vital organs and systems are already functioning and continue to develop. The fetus is actively moving. His facial expressions come to life. At this stage, it is already possible to determine gender.

By week 12, the fetus weighs about 14 grams. A woman usually does not yet feel its movements due to its light weight, but it is already actively moving in the amniotic fluid. From now on, the gynecologist will especially monitor the mother’s weight gain and the dynamics of uterine growth - factors that indicate the child’s growth and weight gain.

What's new?

• fingers and toes separated, marigolds began to appear;
• a unique imprint is formed on the fingertips;
• fluff appears on the face in the area of ​​​​the eyebrows and eyelashes;
• the child actively grimaces, opens his mouth, closes his eyes;
• the chest rises during an impromptu inhalation.

External development of the fetus

The child's head is even much larger than the body itself. The external genitalia are already clearly visible, from which an experienced diagnostician can determine the sex. The child moves his fingers and can suck his thumb. Outwardly, his figure is absolutely similar to that of an adult. The face already has pronounced features. The ears are still in their infancy, the nostrils are set wide apart. A neck appeared.

Internal development of the fetus

By the 12th week, all body systems are already established and are actively being improved:

• circulatory system: in addition to red blood cells, leukocytes begin to appear, which form the prototype of the immune system;
• digestive tract: the intestines are greatly elongated, their shape is similar to a loop; bile is already being produced; intestinal motility appears; the child makes swallowing movements;
• nervous system: reflexes are already working: the child turns away from the ultrasound device sensor, reacts to pressure on the mother’s stomach; such an important sucking reflex appears: the child clenches and unclenches his fists;
• respiratory system: improvised breathing movements appear: the child’s chest rises when inhaling. Such training during the remaining months will allow the baby to breathe independently immediately after birth.

Weight gain at 12 weeks of pregnancy

By the end of the first trimester, a woman's weight increases slightly. As a rule, the increase is 1.8-3.6 kg. The guideline for a normal pregnancy is considered to be a weekly weight gain of 400-500 grams. A deficiency may indicate that the child is not developing according to his age and does not have enough nutrients that he should receive from the mother's blood.

Excessive weight gain is also undesirable: it can affect both the general health of the expectant mother and the weight of the child itself, which will significantly complicate the birth process.

Signs and symptoms of pregnancy at 12 weeks

The most typical manifestations of pregnancy at this stage are:

• breast enlargement and its special sensitivity;
• the first discharge from the breast may appear as colostrum;
• weight gain;
• the appearance of abdominal roundness;
• manifestation of a pigment stripe in the lower abdomen;
• improved appetite and manifestation of atypical taste preferences;
• fatigue, scattered attention, difficulty concentrating;
• the first nagging pain in the back and lower back;
• brittle nails and hair;
• increased blood pressure may occur;
• swelling of the limbs, especially after walking.

What happens to the belly at 12 weeks of pregnancy?

By the 12th week, the belly of a first-time mother usually does not increase enough to cause discomfort in her usual clothes. Those who are not pregnant for the first time are characterized by earlier growth of the abdomen. A typical phenomenon is also considered the appearance of a pigment strip from the navel down. An increase in the volume of the abdomen is often accompanied by itching: this is a kind of signal for a woman that it is time to purchase products for stretch marks and start actively using them (if you do this only in the last months, the effect will be insignificant).

Uterus

By the 12th week of pregnancy, the uterus increases in width by about 10 cm. It can no longer be located in the hip part due to its size, and therefore begins to gradually enlarge the abdominal cavity. This results in a gradual growth of the abdomen and an increase in waist circumference.

The cervix should be tightly closed at this stage. If for some reason it begins to open, in the hospital the woman is given stitches that prevent premature birth.

Pain

If the course of pregnancy is favorable, by the 12th week the woman should not experience pain as such. Mild nagging pain in the lower abdomen may be felt, caused by tension in the ligaments that support the growing uterus. A change in the center of gravity due to the growth of the abdomen can also be the root cause of pain. Severe, sharp pain can be caused by a bladder infection, dilation of the cervix and other pathologies, so if it occurs, a woman should immediately seek advice and undergo treatment in a hospital.

Discharge at 12 weeks of pregnancy

Discharge at this stage of pregnancy is scanty or moderate, quite light, homogeneous, with a sour odor. The slightest blood inclusions should alert a pregnant woman. Often they can appear after examination on a chair or sexual intercourse, which is usually associated with existing cervical erosion or infection. Heavy discharge can be caused by thrush or chlamydia. Treatment of these diseases during pregnancy is carried out using a gentle method, since the infections themselves and their therapy can harm the fetus.

Necessary medical observations, tests and examinations

By the 12th week of pregnancy, a woman must be registered at a local clinic. Before this period, she usually undergoes an examination by a therapist and specialized specialists, regularly undergoes a urine test for protein, a general blood test and an HIV test.

• • Ultrasound, tests, etc.

At 12 weeks, the first planned ultrasound is performed and, at the patient’s request, screening to identify pathologies of fetal development of a genetic nature (blood test from a vein). Using an ultrasound, the doctor assesses the proportions of the child’s body, analyzes his weight, identifies reflexes, and can determine his gender. Other studies at this stage are recommended:

• smear for infection;
• blood test for TORCH;
• general blood test over time;
• measuring the mother's abdominal circumference, monitoring her weight and blood pressure.

Sex

Modern gynecologists do not consider sex as a taboo during pregnancy. By the 12th week, the woman no longer suffers from toxicosis, and the dangerous period of the first trimester for the fetus has passed, so intimacy takes place. An exception may be cases with a low-attached placenta or multiple pregnancies.

For sex, positions are chosen that do not put pressure on the woman’s stomach. During this period, a man must be especially careful about his hygiene so as not to become a carrier of infection and not infect his pregnant partner.

Nutrition

A growing body requires proper and balanced nutrition. A woman should give up heavy foods, fast food, and alcohol. You definitely need to have breakfast. At lunch, a woman needs to eat the first course to avoid constipation. If during pregnancy you have unpleasant associations with a specific product, you should avoid it. It is useful for the expectant mother to consume a lot of dairy products, as they are rich in calcium, and during pregnancy a lot of it is used for the development of the fetus. It is worth choosing seasonal items from fruits and vegetables.

What to do this week

• sign up for an ultrasound;
• study information about courses for future parents;
• start using stretch mark creams;
• start keeping a weight gain chart;
• inform your superiors about your maternity leave;
• buy a new bra size;
• start doing special gymnastics for pregnant women, sign up for a swimming pool;
• visit the dentist.

Dangers and complications

Despite the fact that the most dangerous period of pregnancy has passed, a number of dangers can still appear at this stage:

• respiratory diseases;
• risk of premature cervical dilatation;
• the likelihood of injury due to a shift in the center of gravity;
• possibility of hypothermia;
• danger when driving a car due to distracted attention;
• the likelihood of motion sickness in transport;
• the appearance of stretch marks on the chest, thighs, and abdomen;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases and allergic reactions.

1. Eat properly and nutritiously; eat plenty of dairy products.
2. Get an ultrasound. Take your baby's first photo.
3. Start preparing for the addition. Sign up for courses for future parents.
4. Watch your weight.
5. Take care of your health and minimize contact with potentially sick people.
6. Buy a stretch mark treatment.
7. Stress less and walk more.

The 12th week of pregnancy is the 3rd obstetric month. An average of 80 days have passed since conception, which means almost a third of the way to bearing a child has been completed. The body of the mother and the unborn baby gets used to each other. At the end of the first trimester, the likelihood of miscarriage is already significantly reduced. The pregnant woman’s well-being improves, and the baby continues to grow actively.

12 weeks of pregnancy: what important things happen during this period

According to medical calculations, twelve weeks of pregnancy is ten weeks of fetal life from the moment of conception. Answering the question what month is this, we can safely say that it is the third month of bearing a child.

On a note! When it’s week 12, expectant mothers often wonder how many months it is in order to roughly calculate the due date of the upcoming birth. But it is worth remembering that childbirth does not always occur at 40 weeks, so even obstetric calculations can be considered only conditional.

Large-scale changes occur in the mother's body:

• the level of sex hormones stabilizes;
• the placenta begins to function and provides the child with everything necessary for its intrauterine development;
• a restructuring occurs in metabolism, nutrients stay longer in the mother’s blood to reach the baby;
• A woman’s physical and psychological feelings (including sensations in her stomach) become more and more profound, and the realization gradually comes that a small life is growing inside her.

Important! We found out that the third month is underway, but the question arises which trimester the expectant mother is entering with the new week. At twelve weeks the first trimester ends and the second begins. Along with the first period, the symptoms of toxicosis, fears of losing your child in the early stages, as well as thoughts about terminating the pregnancy go away - the deadline for this medical intervention has also come to an end.

Fetal development at 12 weeks of pregnancy

The embryonic period of the child’s development ends, and the next one begins - the fetal period, which will last until childbirth. The future baby has turned from one cell into a tiny person measuring 53-61 mm.

Fruit size:

All its systems and organs are actively functioning, with the exception of the respiratory system. Sexual differentiation has come to an end, and at the next ultrasound, parents will be able to find out the gender and get a photo of the fetus.

What does the fetus look like at 12 weeks

During an ultrasound, parents can already clearly see what their unborn child looks like.

Even without any decoding of the study and explanations from the uzist, you can easily distinguish the contours of the baby’s body.

• The baby's torso and tummy are slightly larger than his head, and the legs and arms are still short and still barely distinguishable.
• A doctor will be able to recognize the sex of a child only by using modern equipment and provided that the baby’s genitals are clearly visible.
• When examining a pregnant woman’s belly, a video of the baby can be recorded onto a medium already at this stage and saved for the family archive.

Note! Z It is still very early to ask the question about the correct positioning of the baby in the uterine cavity. The fetus at week 12 literally moves and tumbles like a little acrobat, now upside down, now downwards. He can be in any position and change it at will. This happens for the reason that there is currently more than enough space in the uterus for all movements of the fetus.

What happens to the baby at this stage of pregnancy?

The following points can be noted in the development of the baby in the womb:

• The main organs and systems are formed by 12 weeks. Some of them perform their direct functions, for example, the heart beats and pumps blood. The remaining organs continue to improve, such as the intestines;
• a light fluff appears at the location of future eyelashes and eyebrows;
• a unique pattern is formed on the baby’s tiny fingertips;
• the fetal facial expressions are actively developing: in a couple of weeks on an ultrasound you will be able to observe the baby’s funny grimaces;
• the membranes between the fingers finally disappear, small thin nail plates appear;
• the outer ears are still underdeveloped, but continue to mature and lobes are already forming on them;
• future regulators of immunity - leukocytes - are formed in the fetal blood;
• the first reflexes work: the fetus clenches/unclenches its fists, imitates breathing and swallowing movements;
• contraction of the intestinal muscles occurs;
• there is daily and consistent strengthening of bone tissue in the fetal body.

Changes in the body of the expectant mother at 12 weeks

By the end of the 12th week, the state of health of a pregnant woman who suffered from toxicosis usually improves. Drowsiness and chronic fatigue caused by the action of progesterone are replaced by a good mood and a surge of energy.

What does the belly look like at 12 weeks pregnant?

This week, the expectant mother can already feel how her tummy is gradually beginning to grow. During the first pregnancy, the belly begins to grow a little later than during repeated ones. At week 12, the waist is only slightly rounded, and the expectant mother feels quite comfortable; she can still wear regular everyday clothes.

Photos of bellies:

If the pregnancy is second and subsequent, the belly increases earlier, forcing the woman to look for more spacious clothes by the end of the first trimester.

Sometimes the growth of the abdomen is accompanied by mild itching. This may be the first “bell” of the formation of stretch marks, and their appearance is possible not only on the stomach - the chest and thighs are also susceptible to stretch marks. Also, by the 12th week of pregnancy, age spots and a dark stripe running from the navel down may appear. Obstetricians-gynecologists reassure: these are temporary phenomena and are not a cause for concern.

What happens in a woman’s body at this stage of pregnancy?

• the uterus no longer fits in the pelvic space and begins to occupy the abdominal cavity;
• toxicosis most often completely stops at this stage of pregnancy, very rarely it lasts up to 13-14 weeks;
• the emotional state is already more stable, but irritability, tearfulness and sensitivity may persist;
• feelings of drowsiness and fatigue disappear;
• it can be difficult to concentrate, the body spends a lot of energy maintaining the well-being of mother and baby;
• blood volume increases slightly;
• The breasts have grown noticeably and colostrum may begin to leak from the nipples.

12 weeks of pregnancy: what happens to the body, what sensations (mother’s experience - video):

What may worry the expectant mother at the end of the first trimester?

• swelling of the legs and arms;
• the hair becomes dry and brittle, the same problem occurs with the nail plates;
• the skin of the abdomen stretches;
• a little tugging in the stomach or lower back;
• food “fads” still persist, despite the end of toxicosis.

Lifestyle of an expectant mother at 12 weeks

What you need to pay attention to and how to build a daily routine during this period.

Daily regime

If a woman’s well-being is at the same level, then she can lead her usual lifestyle. Of course, she should take care of a sufficient amount of sleep - at least 8 hours a day, three meals a day, sufficient movement during the day and the opportunity to go to bed on time to rest.

At 12 weeks of pregnancy, you should not abuse physical activity. Remember that your baby is just settling into his stomach and there is no need to disturb him again. And the woman has not yet studied the capabilities of her body, being in an interesting position - sudden dizziness during a habitual jog can play a cruel joke.

Now, in the third month of pregnancy, the expectant mother is laying the foundations for the health of her child - this is a very important job that no one except the mother herself can do.

Hygiene procedures

At this stage of pregnancy, there is still no confidence that bearing the child will proceed normally and without complications. Many doctors are of the opinion that taking a bath can cause infection from the water to enter the birth canal. Also, excessively hot water (above 38-39 degrees) increases blood pressure and can cause miscarriage. And although when a woman’s body is immersed in water, the water does not penetrate above the lower third of the vagina, at week 12 it is better to do without a bath, limiting yourself to a shower.

Spending time at the computer/TV

When working on a computer or watching TV during pregnancy, it is not the notorious “radiation” that is scary, but prolonged immobility. Every half hour or hour after sitting in one place, you need to take breaks, during which you can move or walk. Expectant mothers should beware of poor monitors that flicker and can cause eye strain. Also, choose comfortable chairs and armchairs for sedentary work - uncomfortable surfaces put too much stress on the spine, which is useless in an interesting position.

Intimate relationships

There is only one rule here - if the doctor observing your pregnancy finds no contraindications for intimate contacts, and the expectant mother is in good health, then you should not deprive yourself of the pleasure of spending time with your spouse. But if a pregnant woman has concerns (pain, nausea, weakness) or lacks desire, she will have to endure certain deprivations in this area. Remember that many families go through this ordeal, and changing hormonal levels are often to blame.

Contraindications to intimate relationships at 12 weeks are:

1. increased uterine tone;
2. low location of the placenta;
3. difficult pregnancy;
4. vaginal herpes;
5. pregnancy with more than one fetus (carrying twins, triplets, etc.).

Medical examinations at 3 months of pregnancy

This point is worth paying special attention to.

Doctor visits

At the 12th week of pregnancy, a woman is given a bypass sheet, which indicates the specialists whose consultation is necessary at this stage. Visits to the following doctors are required:

Analyzes

At the end of the first trimester, a woman is prescribed a wide range of tests. Their results will allow the doctor to objectively assess the development of pregnancy. Tests at the 12th week of pregnancy will necessarily include:

1. blood test for syphilis;
2. blood test for HIV infection;
3. analysis for antibodies to hepatitis B and C virus;
4. analysis to determine blood group and Rh factor;
5. clinical blood test;
6. blood chemistry;
7. a smear from the vagina and cervical canal for sexually transmitted infections;
8. study of blood clotting factors;
9. general urine analysis.

Prenatal screening and ultrasound

By the end of the first trimester, the expectant mother should not only register for pregnancy, but also undergo the first screening at 12 weeks of pregnancy for fetal malformations. It includes an ultrasound of the fetus and a blood test for the hormones human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and plasma protein (PAPP). A change in the level of their content is a marker of the presence of certain abnormalities in the child.

Ultrasound prenatal screening at 12 weeks (video):

The gender of the baby is not yet visible on an ultrasound at 12 weeks. But in the photo that will be provided to the parents, it is already clearly visible that the fetus looks like a miniature man - you can see the head, tiny arms and legs.

On a note! Go through all the tests that your obstetrician-gynecologist prescribes for you. This is not only a precautionary measure - without the necessary examinations, a woman risks ending up in the infectious diseases department of the maternity hospital. Remember that with the results of your tests in hand, it is easier for the doctor to draw up a rough plan for managing your pregnancy.

Complications and risks during pregnancy at 12 weeks

Any pain during the current week of pregnancy should be listened to with special attention. If there are sharp pains in the lower abdomen that are prolonged or cramping in nature, a pregnant woman should immediately go to bed and call an ambulance.

Bleeding

Minor bleeding that occurs without pain can sometimes accompany the process of placenta implantation. A small amount of blood discharge is possible after active sex or after a routine examination by a gynecologist. Bleeding can also be considered a sign that a woman has cervical erosion.

Discharge

Any discharge with an unpleasant odor and unusual consistency indicates a threat of miscarriage. These also include bloody ones. If they appear simultaneously with nagging pain in the lower abdomen, then the expectant mother needs immediate medical attention. The first signs of miscarriage in the early stages are accompanied by brown or red discharge; they should alert the woman, as should any manifestations of pain or pain in the back and abdomen.

What to do to maintain pregnancy if there is a threat of miscarriage at 12 weeks?

To maintain pregnancy, it is very important that the expectant mother manages to recognize the threat in time and seek qualified medical help (on the first day). In the future, when carrying a child, a woman should exercise extreme caution, be attentive to her feelings and health in general, and strictly follow all the recommendations of the doctor observing this pregnancy.

• observe bed rest at home and, if possible, eliminate any physical activity (in some cases it becomes necessary to go to the hospital for preservation);
• get rid of negative experiences, constant stressful situations, avoid worries;
• take hormonal medications or immunomodulators (as prescribed by a doctor);
• undergo intensive antiviral therapy, as well as antifungal and antibacterial therapy as prescribed by the attending obstetrician;
• The last resort if there is a risk of miscarriage at 12 weeks is surgery. For example, if the diagnosis is isthmic-cervical insufficiency, the doctor will put sutures on the cervix, which will be removed only before childbirth. Thanks to this intervention, the fetus growing in the uterine cavity will be able to stay there. There is also surgical correction for pathological or abnormal structures of the uterus, although such correction is not indicated in all cases.

Breathing exercises at 12 weeks: useful exercises for pregnant women

Throughout the first trimester, the expectant mother’s body adapts to its new state. This process is often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms - bloating, toxicosis, drowsiness and irritability. For this reason, obstetricians-gynecologists recommend reducing sports activity, but at the same time urge not to completely abandon physical education.

On a note! At 12 weeks it’s time to start doing breathing practices. With their help, a woman expecting a baby will learn to relax three important diaphragms, as well as relieve emotional stress.

A set of exercises for training the depth of breathing can be used for independent training; it is also actively practiced by physical therapy instructors in “schools for expectant mothers.”

1. To begin, sit upright without pinching the groin folds. If your back finds it difficult to withstand such a load, find a place with rigid support.
2. First of all, let's do abdominal breathing training. It relaxes the pelvic diaphragm and teaches you to intelligently control it during the birth process. Place your palms on your stomach and begin to inhale and exhale at a calm pace. Watch your hands rise and fall.
3. After 3 minutes, place your palms on the lower ribs and begin to breathe, focusing on the abdominal diaphragm. When breathing, your arms should move to the sides. This breathing process improves lung function and helps cope with nausea during toxicosis.
4. After 5 minutes, the palms move to the collarbones. Place your hands on your collarbones, parallel to your thighs. Inhale smoothly, calmly, while trying to slightly move your collarbones apart with your palms to the sides. This exercise relaxes the upper diaphragm and regulates blood flow in the head and neck.
5. At the end of the breathing exercises, try to use all the diaphragms at once - inhale “bottom-up”, gradually including the stomach, ribs and collarbones. Then exhale slowly, mentally retracing your steps.

Important! Try not to overdo the depth of breathing in the exercises. Excessive amounts of oxygen when inhaled can cause dizziness. If such a symptom appears during a lesson, then gymnastics should be stopped until the next time, and subsequently, with complex breathing, act less actively.

5 tips for an expectant mother to ensure a smooth pregnancy

Pregnancy is, in fact, a real test for the female body. To carry a child safely, it is important to adjust your lifestyle. Below are several recommendations that you should follow even if you have no risks or threat of miscarriage.

Do not be nervous

One of the main conditions for a favorable pregnancy is to reduce stress in life and avoid stressful situations. Of course, you are not able to change the reality around you, but changing your attitude towards external stimuli is a completely feasible task. First of all, think about the health of your baby!

Get rid of bad habits

It's good if this point bypasses you. But if not, first of all you need to quit smoking. Quitting cigarettes should happen as quickly as possible; such a step will certainly have a beneficial effect on the course of pregnancy. Remember that any bad habit has a detrimental effect on the condition of the body as a whole, and even more so during pregnancy.

Eat a balanced diet

The fetus at 12 weeks of gestation must be provided with vitamins, minerals and nutrients for its proper and healthy development. If it is not possible to obtain the necessary elements from food, vitamin complexes for pregnant women will help cope with the situation (after consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist). It is very important to take folic acid and vitamin E - they prevent the development of defects of the nervous system in a child.

Avoid hot baths/saunas

Such procedures at a period of 11-12 weeks help to increase the tone of the uterus. The pressure in the main female organ increases, which is a pathological condition and can lead to the threat of miscarriage. During pregnancy, limit yourself to taking a shower at a comfortable temperature - unlike a bath, it relaxes the uterine muscles.

Don't stimulate your bowels

The intestine is located in close proximity to the uterus, and with its active perilstatics, a mechanical increase in uterine tone occurs. This suggests that pregnant women should absolutely not use medications for constipation in the first and second trimesters. If you have problems with bowel movements, eat more foods rich in fiber. Introduce fermented milk products and bran into your diet - these products will help improve intestinal flora.

There is one important event in the twelfth week of pregnancy: you can now definitely find out the sex of the baby using an ultrasound. Also, your mood continues to improve, because toxicosis has already passed this week.

Feelings of the expectant mother

The end of the first trimester brings joy to the expectant mother. So, what happens during this period. She is no longer tormented by toxicosis and there are no mood swings.

The new sensation that appears is desire feel the baby move. Many women say that already during this week they feel movement and it looks like a rumbling in the stomach. In fact, it won't be until around the fifteenth week of pregnancy that you'll feel your baby moving.

Your body has already rebuilt itself, calmly metabolism normalized. During this period, your heart rate increases slightly, and the amount of blood in your body continues to increase.

The uterus, under the pressure of the placenta, continues to grow and increase in volume, because of this the tummy is slowly growing. During this period, the stomach may itch, this is a sign of the beginning of the appearance of stretch marks. If your stomach itches, be sure to moisturize it with creams.

The size of the tummy is not yet very noticeable, of course, as it has grown, you have noticed it, but this moment is not yet noticeable to others. You have already begun to wear things that are not too tight and do not put pressure on the waist.

Feelings of fatigue, tension and drowsiness disappear. You become curious about your pregnancy, you often examine your tummy in the mirror, trying to notice even the slightest changes. A camera can help you with this. Take a full-length photograph of yourself every week with your belly exposed, and you will notice in the photographs how your belly is growing. At the same time, these photos will remain with your child; he will be very curious to see what he was like in his mother’s tummy.

Also these days, the fear of losing a child goes away, because he has already strengthened and gone through all the stages of organ development. During this period, many women inform their relatives, colleagues, and friends about their pregnancy.

Emotional changes in the future dad

It was very difficult for the future dad to emotionally perceive the mood swings of his pregnant wife. So for him, the 12th week of pregnancy became a long-awaited one. After all, now his other half calmly reacts to the world around him, does not cry spontaneously and begins to smile more often. All these weeks he supported you as best he could.

During this period, the future father comes to the realization that he will become a father. That his beloved woman is carrying his child. Now he is one of those who sees how your tummy has grown, he sees these changes. And he begins to understand that you are pregnant.

The future dad will become more affectionate and caring. His instinct awakens to protect you and his baby.

Fetal development

The most important event in the development of the fetus for the expectant mother is that the child’s genital organs are fully formed. Now the expectant mother goes for an ultrasound and will know who she will have. Affectionate words and conversations with your baby will appear, maybe this week you will already come up with a name for him or her.

Fetal size at 12 weeks: about 7 cm long, weighing about 14 grams. During this period, it continues to actively develop and all organs are formed.

At this stage, the child’s brain has actively developed; now it is fully formed, like that of an adult, only its size is still small. The brain produces a large number of hormones.

The intestines have reached the final stage of development. Now it is fully formed and is located in the abdominal cavity. The kidneys and liver are already fully functioning. The heart fully performs its functions. Bodies responsible for the child’s immune system began to form in the blood.

The skeleton has already acquired its shape, and now your child’s bones are becoming stronger every day.

The head is not yet proportional to the body. But the child, with the help of his neck, actively moves it. The eyes are no longer positioned like those of an alien. They took their place, closer to the bridge of the nose. The sponges have formed, the ears and pinna are in the stage of final formation.

This week your baby has developed taste; when he opens his mouth and swallows amniotic fluid, he feels its taste. Hearing also begins to develop. The child already reacts to strong noises around you, reflexively covering his ears with his hands.

The baby's arms and legs have fully developed. He leads an active lifestyle, swimming in amniotic fluid. He often puts his finger in his mouth, a new reflex will soon appear, he will start sucking his finger. The fingers are already formed and have no membranes. The skin on the fingers and palms is given shape, and the future unique imprint of the hands and fingers is laid.

Nutrition

By the twelfth week of pregnancy, you have already begun to lead a healthy lifestyle. Your diet should also be complete, enriched with vitamins and fresh fruits, vegetables and animal proteins.

You have already given up alcohol and harmful drinks such as carbonated water, coffee. Your diet does not include fast food and fatty, high-calorie foods.

As in all weeks before, the expectant mother can eat what her heart desires. If you even want something that is very harmful, eat it, just watch the quantity, don’t eat in large quantities.

This means that in order for your body to be enriched with iodine during this period of pregnancy, eat more seafood. Vitamin E comes from citrus fruits (lemons, oranges), but when consuming them, watch their quantity so as not to cause diabetes in your baby. And vitamin C is found in greater quantities in walnuts, hazelnuts and soybean oil.

Due to the fact that your body now requires certain vitamins, just slightly adjust your diet.

Weight control

If you have already registered, then every time you visit a gynecologist, he weighs you, thereby monitoring your weight and if you gain excess weight, he will definitely tell you about it and recommend a certain diet.

To control your weight at home, you need to weigh yourself daily and record your readings. Expect that a pregnant woman will gain about 10-12 kg throughout her pregnancy. Of this weight, about 27 percent is the child's weight.

Every 7 days you should gain approximately no more than 400 grams. Of course, this figure will change either up or down, since everything depends on the stage of development of the baby.

What should you do at week 12?

If you haven’t done the obligatory things that you should have done before the twelfth week of pregnancy, now you simply have to fix everything.

• First of all, you should have already registered with the antenatal clinic. When you arrive for your first appointment, be sure to remember when your last menstrual period was. The doctor will interview you and begin monitoring your pregnancy.
• Get tested. You should have been tested before week 12. If not, then when you first come to the antenatal clinic, the gynecologist will prescribe blood and urine tests for you to identify viral diseases. The tests will also make it clear that the body can withstand the stress of pregnancy.
• During this period, it's time to go for an ultrasound. After all, the child is already fully formed and has all his organs. The doctor prescribes an ultrasound at this time to check that all the child’s organs have developed correctly and there is no pathology. Also during this period, you will be able to find out the sex of the child, since his genitals have formed. The only thing is, if you have a multiple pregnancy, then the doctor may not consider the gender, but this can be done a little later.
• To maintain and help your body, it’s time to take vitamins or a special vitamin complex for pregnant women. If you are registered with a antenatal clinic, your gynecologist will recommend which vitamins you take.
• And, the main thing to do at this stage of pregnancy is to rejoice. Charge yourself with positive emotions, because your baby feels you very strongly. When you are in a good mood, he rejoices with you. And receive congratulations from your loved ones - you will soon be a mother!

Questions and answers on topics of concern

I was overcome by a cold. I am suffering from a runny nose and pulmonary fever. The doctor prescribed treatment, but I do not want to take these drugs. It's all chemicals, and I'm 12 weeks pregnant. What can be done to treat it? Are there any herbal remedies that can be taken during pregnancy?

If a non-pregnant woman’s pulmonary body temperature is considered to be about 37.2 – 37.4 ºС, then in a pregnant woman this is a normal temperature.

Therefore, tablets do not bring down the temperature to 37.8 ºС. Drinking plenty of warm drink in the form of linden tea with lemon or raspberry jam will reduce the slightly elevated temperature.

A runny nose and cough can be treated with herbal inhalations (for example, inhale the steam of a decoction of eucalyptus leaves). Also read the article on how to treat a cold. Be healthy!

Is bleeding or brown discharge always, and when there is a tugging in the lower abdomen, a sign of further death of the child? Is it possible to save the baby?

Bleeding, brown discharge and pain in the lower abdomen do not always end in miscarriage or missed pregnancy. Responsible doctors try to save pregnancy at any stage.

The first step is to stop the bleeding (if any), and then perform an ultrasound and undergo a series of tests to determine the cause of the alarming symptoms.

After receiving the test results, doctors prescribe treatment. In case of deficiency of the hormone progesterone, which is vital for the embryo, Duphaston or Utrozhestan is prescribed; in case of rejection of the fetus by the immune system of the expectant mother, Metipred and Duphaston are prescribed together. No-shpu and Papaverine are prescribed to relieve painful spasms of the uterus.

I'm 12 obstetric weeks pregnant. What is the hCG level at this time?

At the twelfth week of pregnancy, the hCG level should be between 30,000 and 120,000 mU/ml.

It’s only the 12th week of pregnancy, and my breasts have already stopped hurting and become soft. I heard that this happens during a frozen pregnancy. I’m very worried about this, I just recently had a scheduled ultrasound, everything was fine, but the next one is still a long way off. What could it be?

Usually, by the 12th obstetric week of pregnancy, pain in the chest disappears or becomes less obvious, and colostrum may be released from the nipples. During the day, a pregnant woman's breasts may either fill up or become soft and subside.

A blood test for hCG levels and an ultrasound of the uterus will accurately show a frozen pregnancy.

At home, you can measure your basal temperature (in the morning, without getting out of bed). It should be no less than 37 ºС and no higher than 37.9 ºС.

And also analyze the general condition of your body: is there any brown discharge or bleeding, is there a nagging pain in the lower abdomen.

If the only symptoms are the disappearance of toxicosis and chest pain, then there is no need to worry.

Is screening dangerous for the health of the child and the expectant mother?

The harm of ultrasound examination has not been proven. But scientists unanimously claim that if ultrasound is performed as planned, that is, three times during pregnancy, then there will be no harm to either the child or his mother. A planned ultrasound or, as modern doctors say, screening is carried out at 10-14 weeks, then at 20-24 weeks and at 32-34 obstetric weeks of pregnancy.

If screening is prescribed more often than expected, it means that this is necessary to clarify the health of the embryo and the course of pregnancy as a whole. You should not refuse the examination, because it can save your pregnancy or prevent deviations in the development of the embryo.

Video (our permanent video guide)

Photo ultrasound

12 weeks of pregnancy symbolize the end of the first anxious trimester. You can congratulate yourself and your baby, because the first third of the journey has been successfully completed, the risk of complications and miscarriage has been significantly reduced, which means you can relax and reveal your secret to relatives and friends.

Perinatal screening In the diet
phase corpuscles
changes how much

By 12 weeks, the baby’s body length is 60-100 mm, its weight is 15-20 g. The size of the fetus at week 12 is the size of a lemon.

Detailed fetal development

What happens to the fetus at this stage?

1. The inner part of the ear is being formed.
2. Eyes are recognized.
3. The face becomes more and more distinct. The face is still very small, but the forehead is large.
4. Nails begin to grow on the fingers and toes.
5. Grasping and sucking reflexes have already been developed. If it were possible to touch the child’s palm with a finger, he grabbed it in his fist.
6. The baby began to swallow amniotic fluid, which then came out in the form of urine. This indicates the beginning of kidney function.
7. At the 12th week, the fetus is actively moving, turning over in the womb, and its movements have acquired coordination, since the signals are sent not to the brain, but to the spinal cord.
8. The endocrine gland, the pituitary gland, continues to develop. Its hormones help the baby grow, develop, ensure metabolic processes and reproductive function.
9. The baby is already sensitive, reacts to touches and sounds.
10. The thymus has formed - the thymus gland, responsible for the synthesis of lymphocytes and the development of immunity.
11. The baby's heart beats 110-160 beats per minute. Its knocking can already be heard not only on ultrasound, but with the help of Doppler (a special tube device).
12. The liver produces bile necessary for complete digestion.
13. The small intestine is already capable of peristalsis. The digestive system can digest glucose.
14. In the skeleton, predominantly consisting of cartilage, the process of formation of bone substance begins.
15. By the 12th week of pregnancy, the chest muscles begin to contract rhythmically. These movements are a kind of preparation of the baby for breathing after birth.
16. The genital organs have already developed sufficiently, so during an ultrasound, you can distinguish the sex of the baby if he lies in a comfortable position.
17. From 12 weeks the baby begins to feel pain.

Week 12 – the date of the first perinatal screening. At this time or a little earlier, a pregnant woman registers with the antenatal clinic. Subsequently, she visits the doctor once every 3-4 weeks.

The first perinatal screening is carried out during this period

Examinations during this period

During screening, a woman undergoes the necessary tests:

• blood chemistry;
• tests for hepatitis, syphilis, AIDS;
• studies to measure blood sugar levels;
• undergoes an ultrasound examination if it was not performed at 10 or 11 weeks.

If necessary, the doctor can also prescribe a test at 12 weeks of pregnancy to identify urogenital infections and determine hormone levels. At 12 weeks, it is important to undergo all studies recommended by a specialist, since with their help you can obtain information about the current condition of the mother and possible complications during pregnancy.

An ultrasound at the 12th week of pregnancy allows you to determine the weight, height of the fetus, the presence/absence of abnormalities during pregnancy or fetal development, the condition of the uterus, the presence of tone, if the position of the baby allows, determine the sex of the baby. The doctor can also tell you the expected date of birth. But you shouldn’t put too much faith in the research results. The baby may be born earlier or later than the scheduled date.

Also find out whether you need to do it and which one.

When conducting screening, the doctor receives the most valuable information about the mother and child; based on the interpretation of the ultrasound, he can study the risks of chromosomal abnormalities and developmental pathologies. Therefore, the importance of ultrasound cannot be overestimated. When chromosomal abnormalities are detected that doctors have not yet learned how to treat, parents are faced with a difficult task: to give birth to a child or to terminate a pregnancy.

During an ultrasound, you can take photos and videos of the 12th week of pregnancy, in which parents see what the baby looks like, watch how he funny moves his lips, opens his mouth, makes grimaces, unclenches and clenches his fists.

What happens to the expectant mother?

The period of 12 weeks for a woman is “golden”. The following changes occur in the body of a pregnant woman.

1. All signs of toxicosis have passed by this time. You can forget about nausea and vomiting.
2. By the 12th week, hormonal levels are normalized, which has a beneficial effect on the emotional state - expectant mothers become calm and peaceful. Although it is too early to talk about complete emotional stability, hormones continue to control a woman’s mood.
3. The hormone progesterone is no longer produced in large quantities, completely transferring the reins of maintaining the vital functions of the fetus to the placenta. As a result, the woman experiences increased fatigue, drowsiness, and weakness.
4. There is no belly yet at the 12th week of pregnancy, however, from this moment it will begin to grow rapidly. The uterus is already cramped in the pelvic area (its size is about 10 cm), it rises into the abdominal cavity.
5. The woman begins to worry about a rapid heartbeat. The culprit for this phenomenon is the increased volume of circulating blood. You should check your pulse and blood pressure regularly.
6. In approximately 60% of cases, frequent urination ceases to bother a pregnant woman.
7. Under the influence of hormones, many pregnant women's complexion improves at 12 weeks, their hair becomes soft, shiny, and silky.
8. All the same hormones lead to the fact that a woman suffers from heartburn. Moreover, it is very difficult to get rid of it. Fried and spicy foods should be excluded from the diet.

Here's a belly

Despite the fact that the changes that have occurred to the woman are not yet noticeable to others, the expectant mother is already noticing them, observing herself in the mirror. Often, it is at the 12th week that a woman stops wearing skirts with zippers and trousers with buttons, preferring loose-fitting clothes made from elastic fabrics. This is caused by the fact that a pregnant woman has a feeling of “tightness” in the abdominal area, even if the clothes do not fit tightly to the body.

By the 12th week, the breasts fill out even more, increase in size, and the skin begins to itch from rapid stretching. It would be a good idea to change your bra and start using stretch mark creams.

Week 12 is the time to change your wardrobe, select natural remedies for the prevention of stretch marks, and enjoy your amazing condition. All a woman’s sensations during this period are very pleasant, uplifting, and bring joy. You can improve your health and take care of the normal course of pregnancy by using the following tips.

A pregnant woman's diet should contain more vegetables, fruits and berries

Discharge and abdominal pain

In a healthy woman, discharge at the 12th week of pregnancy should be moderate, uniform in consistency, light milky in color, and odorless. The appearance of pus and mucus in the discharge may indicate infection. If the discharge has a curd-like consistency and a sour smell, this indicates infection with a fungus of the genus Candida, in other words, thrush.

Candidiasis is the most common disease in pregnant women. Its symptoms:

• burning in the perineal area;
• worse after urination;
• curdled discharge.

The disease itself does not pose a danger to the woman and child during pregnancy. However, it is necessary to undergo a course of treatment, since the child can become infected with the fungus while passing through the birth canal.

Often thrush is disguised as other infectious diseases - trichomoniasis, chlamydia. 12 weeks is the right time to undergo treatment. The fetus is already formed, and the placenta will provide it with reliable protection from the effects of antibacterial drugs.

If a woman notices bloody vaginal discharge, even the slightest, this is an alarming sign. Especially if they are accompanied by abdominal pain. This indicates a threat of miscarriage, so the woman should immediately consult a doctor.

Sometimes spotting in pregnant women occurs after sexual intercourse or a gynecological examination. This may indicate the presence of cervical erosion or fibroids, which is also a reason to conduct additional examination.