Welcome to Week 11 of your remarkable pregnancy journey in the UK! As your baby continues to grow and develop, and you embark on this transformative experience, let’s delve into the specifics of this week. In this guide crafted for our UK moms-to-be, we’ll explore the size of your blossoming baby, outline common symptoms, and provide essential tips to keep you well-informed and engaged during this pivotal time.
Baby’s size and development at Week 11
At Week 11, your baby is making significant strides and is now approximately the size of a lime, measuring around 1.6 inches (40 mm) and weighing around 7 g. The tiny human inside you is transitioning from the embryonic stage to the fetal stage. Critical structures are in place, and your baby’s facial features are becoming more distinct. It’s a captivating phase as your little one’s journey toward becoming a fully formed individual progresses.
Symptoms you might experience during Week 11
- Morning sickness: While some women find relief from morning sickness around this time, others may still experience nausea and occasional vomiting. Continue with strategies like eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated to manage this common pregnancy symptom.
- Fatigue: Your body is working diligently to support your baby’s growth, which can lead to increased fatigue. Ensure you’re getting enough rest, and consider incorporating short naps into your daily routine if needed.
- Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations may contribute to mood swings. Acknowledge these emotions as a normal part of the journey, and communicate openly with your support system about your feelings.
- Breast changes: Your breasts may continue to change, becoming more tender and increasing in size. Invest in a comfortable and supportive bra to alleviate any discomfort.
- Increased appetite: you may now feel a little hungrier than in the past weeks.
- Bleeding gums: are very common in pregnancy due to increased blood flow, so it’s important to see the dentist and take care of your oral hygiene during pregnancy.
Tips to make your life easier at 11 weeks pregnant
- Balanced diet: Prioritize a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Foods high in iron, such as leafy greens and red meat, support your increased blood volume.
- Hydration and snacking: Stay well-hydrated throughout the day, aiming for at least eight glasses of water. Choose healthy snacks like nuts, yoghurt, or fruits to keep energy levels stable and combat nausea.
- Screening test for Down’s, Edwards’ and Patau’s syndrome: This is offered between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy (not in Northern Ireland). Ask your GP.
- See your dentist: Take care of your mouth health and take advantage of this service being free during pregnancy and 1 year after.
- Gentle exercise: Engage in moderate exercises like walking or swimming to promote physical and mental well-being. Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure your exercise routine aligns with your pregnancy.
- Emotional well-being: Take time for self-care and relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, practising mindfulness, or enjoying a warm bath, nurturing your emotional well-being is crucial during this transformative time.
Looking ahead
Welcome to Week 11, a significant milestone in your extraordinary pregnancy journey in the UK! As you embark on the second trimester, let’s explore this week’s developments. In this guide tailored for our UK moms-to-be, we’ll delve into the size of your blossoming baby, outline common symptoms, and provide essential tips to keep you well-informed and engaged during this reassuring stage.
