During this time, high chances are; you might be feeling better since most of the early symptoms you experienced during the first trimester are starting to fade away! It’s a big step since you’re currently three months along! Your baby also looks like a real baby since its vital organs have fully formed.
Lastly, your uterus is also growing out of the pelvis meaning your belly is getting bigger and bigger! If you are feeling unsure about this week and you need more information, continue reading.
What is happening to your baby?
At week 12, your baby’s growth is crucial. The baby is typically 2.5 inches long; the size of a passion fruit. It looks more human because all its physical parts are in place.
The baby’s skin is see-through and fragile, its bones are hardening, the liver is forming red blood cells, the vocal cords are developing, fingernails are visible.
You can book an appointment with us at Jacaranda Maternity hospital to track your baby’s development. Antenatal clinics offered at Umoja branch (Wallet Centre, opposite Shujaa Mall) and Kahawa West branch (Kamiti road, Kiamumbi, Chief’s stage) from Mon-Sun 8am to 5pm.
During your visit, your history will be taken, vitals and physical examination, new ANC laboratory tests, dating ultrasound (it’s the best way to confirm your date of delivery), nutrition supplements like folic and iron supplements will be given to boost your blood levels and prevent some congenital abnormalities to the baby. The midwife will take you through the danger signs and birth plan. Urine test is done during every visit. HIV test is also done, and in case turns positive, counselling is offered and treatment began.
Symptoms
During this time, you’ll realize that the symptoms you experienced during the first trimester are lessening since the pregnancy hormones are becoming more stable. This is because your body is getting used to the changes that are occurring.
1. Less Nausea
Since the pregnancy hormones are stabilizing, you will experience less nausea during this time. Regardless, this symptom doesn’t happen to every woman.
2. Bigger Uterus
To cater to the growing baby, your uterus expands to fill your pelvis. Due to this, you might also develop a protruding abdomen.
3. Frequent visits to the toilet will reduce
As your uterus expands, it takes the weight off the bladder, allowing you to relax most of the time without having to rush to the restroom occasionally.
Nutrition
Since the symptoms during the first trimester are fading off, you’ll feel hungrier. You can choose to eat healthy snacks that you enjoy.