11 Weeks Pregnant: Big Developments Are Happening!
Lucy Woodbridge
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Eleven Weeks Pregnant
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby is now officially referred to as a foetus, and is roughly the size of a fig – measuring around 41mm in length and weighing approximately 7 grams.
11 Weeks Pregnant: When Are You Due?
Due dates are only an estimate. Statistically, 96% are incorrect. If you are currently 11 weeks pregnant then you are due in approximatley 29 weeks or 200 days. Due dates are calculated on 40 weeks of pregnancy but your baby might be born anytime between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. Some are born earlier and some later. Put simply, labour happens when your body and baby are ready!
Use our pregnancy calculator to work out when you might be due.
How Big is Your Baby at 11 Weeks Pregnant?
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby is now officially referred to as a foetus, and is roughly the size of a fig – measuring around 41mm in length and weighing approximately 7 grams. Here’s how your baby will look at the moment:
Top-heavy!
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby’s head makes up about half the length of their body, but this proportion will gradually balance out as they grow.
Digit definition
Their fingers and toes, which were once webbed, are now separating. Tiny fingernails and toenails are starting to form, and their ears are much more obvious.
Making moves
Although your little one is kicking and wriggling, it’s still too early for you to feel anything at 11 weeks pregnant. Most women begin to sense movements between 18 and 22 weeks, but for now, you’ll likely be able to see them on an ultrasound.
Your Body at 11 Weeks Pregnant
By this point, you’ve likely had your booking appointment, which is your first official antenatal meeting with your midwife. If not, don’t worry! It will usually be offered to you when you’re between 8 and 12 weeks pregnant. If you’re concerned that this hasn’t been arranged yet, feel free to reach out to your GP.
And if you’re due for a 10-week pregnancy scan, this will be an exciting opportunity to catch a glimpse of your baby and make everything feel a bit more real. The 10-week ultrasound will give you a clearer view of your baby’s shape and their tiny movements. You might see their heart flickering and their tiny limbs wiggling at 11 weeks pregnant.
Pregnancy Symptoms at 11 Weeks
While you’re getting closer to the second trimester and hopefully a bit of relief, many of the symptoms from earlier weeks may persist a little longer. Here’s what you might experience at 11 weeks pregnant:
Fatigue: Nothing new here, I’m afraid – tiredness is probably still a major factor in your day-to-day. The good news? You may start feeling more energetic soon as your placenta takes over from the yolk sac in nourishing your baby.
Nausea: Some women find that morning sickness starts to ease around 11 weeks, while others might still be dealing with it. I can’t stress the importance of hydration right now – even if you can’t stomach any food, make sure to keep drinking water.
Mood swings: If you’re feeling a bit tetchy right now, be sure to have lots of patience with yourself. Hormones are no joke!
Breast changes: You may notice your breasts continuing to grow as they prepare for breastfeeding, and they might be feeling quite tender. As always, comfort is the most important thing here – ditch the underwire bras and find a soft, supportive alternative.
Frequent urination: It’s another week of waking up in the night to use the loo, as your expanding uterus puts extra pressure on your bladder.
Bloating and gas: One of the less glamorous aspects of pregnancy, increasing levels of progesterone can slow down your digestion, and this can cause bloating or gas. But eating high-fibre foods and drinking peppermint tea can help alleviate this.
Spotty skin: Week 11 might feel like a throwback to puberty, with hormonal changes affecting your skin. Don’t be alarmed if you notice oily patches or breakouts – just continue with your normal routine and speak to your healthcare provider if you’re feeling particularly self-conscious. They will be able to point you in the direction of tailored skincare.
11 Week Ultrasound: What to Expect
Many women will have a dating scan between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, an important milestone that provides a clearer look at your baby’s development. During this ultrasound, you might be able to see your baby’s heartbeat, as well as the shape of their tiny body, hands, and feet. If your ultrasound hasn’t been scheduled yet, contact your midwife or GP, as this is an important part of antenatal care.
Taking Care of Yourself at 11 Weeks Pregnant
- Nutrition. Now more than ever, it’s important to focus on what you’re eating. Aim for a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Supplements like folic acid are particularly important at this stage – you can find this cheaply at most pharmacies.
- Exercise. Light exercise can be a game-changer for your mood and energy levels. I always recommend walking or prenatal yoga at this stage of pregnancy – both are gentle enough but still effective for keeping your body active. However, don’t start any new routines without checking in with your healthcare provider first. This isn’t about pushing yourself; it’s about staying connected to your body in a way that feels good.
- Rest. By 11 weeks pregnant, you’ll be no stranger to the fact that pregnancy fatigue is real! Your body is working around the clock to support your baby, so rest should be a big factor in week 11.
Mental health. Hormonal changes, anticipation, and the natural uncertainties that come with growing a baby can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’re feeling low, anxious, or simply out of sorts, please feel free to reach out for support. Trust me, there’s nothing your healthcare team won’t have heard before!
In Conclusion
Some women feel like they should be glowing by 11 weeks pregnant, but are instead dealing with anxiety, bloating, or general exhaustion. If this is you, please don’t put pressure on yourself to feel a certain way. Your body knows what it’s doing, and relief is on the horizon as you approach the second trimester.
Be sure to check out the Butterbean knowledge hub for your week by week guide to pregnancy plus lots more from birth to babe in arms. Did you know we also have courses? Check out our multi award-winning hypnobirthing and pregnancy yoga courses today!
& enjoy a free guide from us
