Week 13 of Pregnancy
Welcome to the second trimester! Many parents notice a boost in energy and a reduction in early pregnancy symptoms, like nausea and fatigue. Your baby is growing quickly now, and their body is starting to catch up to the size of their head, making them look more like a newborn.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a plum.
Baby’s Development at 13 weeks
Your baby can pee!
Your baby has started swallowing amniotic fluid and excreting urine, recycling the full volume of fluid every few hours.
Teeth and bones
Bones are beginning to harden in your baby's skeleton, especially longer bones and the skull. Your baby's teeth and bones are becoming denser.
Making meconium
As your baby swallows amniotic fluid, they also produce meconium. This black, sticky substance accumulates in the bowels, and becomes your newborn's first poop.
Pregnancy symptoms during Week 13
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Occasional cramping during pregnancy is common. It could be caused by anything from gas and bloating to round ligament pain. Sometimes a little movement, a hot bath or shower, drinking more fluids, or lying down can do the trick to ease abdominal pain. But in some cases cramping can signal a problem. Call your doctor or midwife if your cramping doesn't go away after several minutes of rest, the cramping or pain is severe, you have pain or unusual sensitivity in your upper abdomen, or you have other symptoms such as fever or dizziness.
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If you've suffered from morning sickness and food aversions until now, you may get some welcome relief in the next few weeks as you enter the second trimester. As your appetite returns, food cravings may pop up. Some experts think that cravings for certain foods are linked to a woman's nutritional needs, but many think that pregnancy cravings can't be explained that easily.
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Are you congested lately? Nearly one-third of pregnant women get a stuffy nose due to hormones and increased blood volume. However, if you have a fever, coughing, sore throat, or swollen glands, it's probably a cold or another infection. Find out which cold medicines are safe when you're expecting, and eat foods high in vitamin C to keep your immune system strong.
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Because your body produces 30 to 50 percent more blood during pregnancy, your veins enlarge and are more visible. You may start seeing blue, prominent veins across your chest, breasts, and belly. You may also develop varicose veins in your legs and lower body as your uterus grows. Happily, these usually disappear or improve after you have your baby.
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It's totally normal to have more vaginal discharge during pregnancy: It's because of higher levels of estrogen. If your discharge is odorless or mild-smelling and milky white, there's no need for concern. But call your healthcare provider if you have discharge that's gray, yellow, or green; causes pain or itching; or seems unusual in any other way. This could be a sign of infection or another problem.
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Hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy can lead to heartburn (also called acid indigestion or acid reflux). It's an unpleasant burning sensation between your lower throat and the bottom of your breast bone. If you're having heartburn, avoid spicy and acidic foods. Try eating smaller meals, eating slowly, and chewing gum after eating to neutralize your stomach acids. If that doesn't help, ask your provider about pregnancy-safe heartburn medicines.
Pregnancy checklist at 13 weeks pregnant
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During the second trimester, you'll typically see your doctor or midwife once every four weeks.
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During pregnancy, good nutrition is more important than ever. But it can be hard to eat well when you're dealing with nausea, food aversions, heartburn, or indigestion. During pregnancy you need lots of protein and healthy fats, and more of certain vitamins and minerals (such as folic acid, iron, and calcium).
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Experts say the best pregnancy sleeping position is on your side, especially as you get closer to mid-pregnancy. Side-sleeping puts the least pressure on your veins and internal organs. This ensures the best blood flow to the uterus, which means your baby will get maximum nutrients and oxygen. Good circulation also helps you avoid swelling, varicose veins in your legs, and hemorrhoids. If side-sleeping isn't your thing, don't give up until you've tried a pregnancy pillow – the right one can make a major difference in your sleep comfort.
13 Weeks Pregnant Belly
You're one-third of the way (or more) through your pregnancy at the end of this week! Though pregnancy is different for everyone, you're probably happy to say goodbye to the first trimester and hello to the second. Now's the time when you may start getting more energy, feeling more like yourself, and looking more visibly pregnant. The top of your uterus is moving up and out of your pelvis, making your bump more noticeable to anyone who's looking closely.
Tips & Resources
With energy returning, it’s a great time to start preparing your space and organizing essentials. Our Preparing for Your New Arrival Guide offers a simple starting point to help you ease into planning mode.
Keep nurturing your connection with your partner or support person. Use our Partner Support Guide to spark conversations about shared responsibilities and emotional support.
As your appetite increases, focus on balanced meals and hydration. The Third Trimester Pregnancy Tip Sheet offers a helpful look ahead so you can understand how your current habits can support your journey later.
If you haven’t started yet, consider enrolling in our 7-Week Prenatal Group Series or booking a Private 1-on-1 Prenatal Class for trusted guidance and a sense of community.