Week 12 of Pregnancy
By Week 12, your baby is growing rapidly, now the size of a plum, with developing facial features and maturing organs. Many people start feeling more energized as the first trimester symptoms subside, and you may begin noticing a small baby bump as your body adjusts to pregnancy.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a lime.
Baby’s Development at 12 weeks
Facial features take shape
Eyes and ears are moving into their correct positions, and the baby’s profile is becoming more defined.
Reflexes begin
Your baby can now make small movements like opening and closing fingers and curling toes.
Organs continue to mature
Kidneys start producing urine and the intestines are developing rapidly.
Nervous system is progressing
Nerve cells are multiplying, and synapses are forming in the brain.
Pregnancy symptoms during Week 12
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It's normal to feel some stress during pregnancy. Many moms-to-be (and partners) worry about their baby's health, finances, and how they'll handle the changes ahead. But if stress becomes constant or overwhelming, talk to your doctor or midwife. Chronic stress isn't good for you, and it can spiral into pregnancy depression or anxiety.
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Headaches are a common pregnancy symptom at 12 weeks. You may be able to avoid them by eating small meals frequently, drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, exercising, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga, and getting a prenatal massage. If you're suffering from a headache, apply heat or cold to your forehead or the base of your skull, take a shower, and consider acupuncture. Healthcare providers consider acetaminophen (Tylenol) the safest over-the-counter pain reliever during pregnancy, but talk to your doctor or midwife before taking any medication during pregnancy.
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Pregnancy hormones and a heightened sense of smell are likely behind any food aversions you're experiencing. About 60 percent of pregnant women have aversions, often to meat, eggs, dairy products, spicy foods, foods with strong smells, and coffee. The odds are good that food aversions will fade as you enter your second trimester. Until then, try eating bland or cold foods, which can be easier to stomach. If food smells make you sick, see if your partner or a loved one can do the cooking for now.
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Dizziness in pregnancy happens because your cardiovascular system undergoes dramatic changes: Your heart rate goes up, your heart pumps more blood per minute, and the amount of blood in your body increases by 30 to 50 percent. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, lie down on your side to maximize blood flow to your body and brain. If you can't lie down, sit down and put your head between your knees.
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If you feel like you can't catch a full breath, you're not imagining it. Being short of breath during pregnancy isn't uncommon. You need more oxygen when you're expecting, and an increase in progesterone actually expands your lung capacity so you can take deeper breaths. However, if you have a respiratory issue like asthma, it may worsen during pregnancy. And while some shortness of breath is normal, if you have symptoms like chest pain, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, or severe or sudden shortness of breath, call your provider immediately.
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Still exhausted? Studies show that 95 percent of pregnant women experience fatigue during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Most likely, you can look forward to having more energy in the second trimester. Many expecting moms start to feel tired again in the third trimester, when they're carrying more weight and having more sleep disturbances. Though it may seem counterintuitive, gentle exercise is one of the best ways to keep your energy up during pregnancy. And though it's normal, pregnancy fatigue can be a symptom of iron-deficiency anemia or depression, so talk to your provider if it's not letting up.
Pregnancy checklist at 12 weeks pregnant
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Sit down with your partner to discuss how you'll handle baby expenses – baby clothes, diapers, toys, feeding supplies, and baby gear add up fast. If you'll pay for childcare, it can take a huge bite out of your monthly budget. Brainstorm where you can trim your spending to save money for your baby. This may feel like a chore, but the resulting peace of mind can be worth it.
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Exercise helps you develop the strength and endurance you'll need to manage the extra weight you'll be carrying; prepare for childbirth; and prevent some of the aches and pains of pregnancy. It's a great stress reducer and mood booster, too. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 20 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most or all days of the week (to equal 2.5 hours per week). If you haven't been exercising during your pregnancy, check in with your healthcare provider before you start and make sure to take it easy, listen to your body, and follow these guidelines for safe pregnancy exercise.
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Drinking enough water can help prevent common problems in pregnancy such as constipation, hemorrhoids, and urinary tract and bladder infections. It's recommended that pregnant women drink about ten 8-ounce cups of water or other beverages each day, although this target isn't an exact science. Your needs may vary based on your activity levels, your size, and the weather. For example, you're likely to need more fluid than usual when it's hot outside or if you're exercising. The best way to tell if you're getting enough water: Your urine should look pale yellow or colorless, and you should feel thirsty only occasionally.
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Pregnancy journaling is a powerful way to record and reflect on all the changes you're going through. And keeping a journal can actually be good for you: Research shows that writing in a journal (also called expressive writing) can improve your emotional well-being, mental clarity, and even physical health. Your pregnancy journal is also a keepsake you'll enjoy looking back on – and maybe sharing with your child.
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Kegels are exercises that strengthen the muscles of your pelvic floor. Do them consistently and you may have an easier time healing post-birth. Kegels also help prevent urinary incontinence, and can make sex after birth more enjoyable. You can do Kegels anytime – while brushing your teeth, sitting at a red light, or waiting in line at the coffee shop. Squeeze and hold your pelvic floor muscles, starting with a quick squeeze repeated 10 to 20 times.
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The flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine are safe and recommended for all pregnant women. Both shots significantly lower your chances of getting a severe infection and being hospitalized. There's also an important benefit to your baby: Antibodies that you develop during pregnancy in response to the flu shot and COVID vaccine are passed to your baby and provide protection after birth. Learn more about which vaccines are safe for pregnancy and which ones to avoid.
12 weeks Pregnant Belly
Is it time to start shopping for maternity clothes? It depends. For now, you may be comfy wearing roomier items from your existing wardrobe, such as leggings, maxi dresses, and oversized sweaters. There are also many tried-and-true pregnancy clothing hacks you can use, such as threading a hair tie around your pants button to leave more room for your growing belly, or making your own belly band to wear on top of unzipped pants.
But once you start showing and your belly pops, maternity clothes are often most comfortable. When shopping, know that maternity sizes work the same as regular clothing sizes, so you can stick with your pre-pregnancy size. Sizing remains true for plus-size maternity clothes, too.
Tips & Resources
Start planning ahead for your third trimester and delivery. Our Third Trimester Pregnancy Tip Sheet gives you a helpful preview of what’s to come, so you can start making informed decisions early.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what’s normal, check out our Relaxation Techniques for Labour Guide to begin practicing calming habits that can support you through pregnancy and beyond.
Wondering how to get your partner more involved? The Partner Support Guide is full of practical ways they can connect with you now and support your journey as a team.
Ready to feel more confident? Join our 7-Week Prenatal Group Series to get expert insights, ask your questions, and feel supported every step of the way. Prefer a personalized touch? Our Private 1-on-1 Prenatal Class is available at your convenience.