How big is your baby?
Your baby has now reached the grand total size of around 3.5 cms (1 and ¼ inches) in length. He’s tiny still, think prune sized, but he will almost certainly double in size over the next few weeks to just over 7.5cms (3 inches).
He weighs about 4g That’s some rapid growing he’s doing there – no wonder you’re tired!
How big is your baby?
Your baby has now reached the grand total size of around 3.5 cms (1 and ¼ inches) in length. He’s tiny still, think prune sized, but he will almost certainly double in size over the next few weeks to just over 7.5cms (3 inches). He weighs about 4g That’s some rapid growing he’s doing there – no wonder you’re tired!
What does your baby look like?
Your baby’s appearance at week 10 is characterised by a large head and broad face. The eyes are still quite far apart and his ears are low down on the sides of his head. However, his extraordinary rate of growth means that he will very soon look like a recognisable baby.
Changes in your body this week
You’re approaching the end of your first trimester and by now you have probably missed your second period. For many women this makes the pregnancy feel more ‘real’. Your breasts will almost certainly have enlarged and it’s time to invest in new bras to fit your new shape.
Expectant mothers might want to purchase soft, non-wired bras to ensure that there’s no damage caused to milk ducts in the breast. However, Breast Cancer Care (UK charity) says there is no evidence to support advice that underwired bras must not be worn during pregnancy. They say that as long the bra fits well, supports your breasts and is not digging in to your body in any way, then underwired bras can be worn.
However, soft bras are useful to have for sleeping in and on days when the breasts are tender.
How your baby is developing
His internal organs are all continuing to develop nicely, but this week it’s all about the ears. Outside, they are starting to take shape on his head, and inside, his ear canals are forming.
Later in your pregnancy your baby will be able to hear noises outside the womb and he will learn to recognise the sound of your voice.
How your baby is developing
His internal organs are all continuing to develop nicely, but this week it’s all about the ears. Outside, they are starting to take shape on his head, and inside, his ear canals are forming. Later in your pregnancy your baby will be able to hear noises outside the womb and he will learn to recognise the sound of your voice.
Health concerns
Pregnancy can change your body in all sorts of weird and wonderful (and unexpected) ways. You may notice your vision becomes blurry due to the cornea (outer layer of the eye) becoming thicker. This is mainly due to fluid retention. Your skin may be drier and have more blemishes; drinking a lot of water will help to combat both of these issues.
Are there any symptoms you should be looking out for?
Headaches. It’s normal to suffer more in pregnancy, especially if you have previously had migraines. Rest is the usual cure, but if your headaches are very bad then a trip to the GP may be necessary.
Likewise with tiredness. Fatigue is absolutely normal in pregnancy because of your raised metabolic rate due to increased blood volume. It’s perfectly usual to be mind-numbingly exhausting, but it can also occasionally be a sign of something else, such as having an underactive thyroid gland, or other medical issues. So if your exhaustion becomes crippling then do see your doctor.
Safety first
It’s a sad fact of pregnancy that there are some foods which you are simply advised to cut out from your diet for the nine month duration. This includes, but is not restricted to, things like blue, or any unpasteurised, cheeses, pate, raw meat or seafood of any kind (so sushi and steak tartare are definitely out). Expectant mothers are also warned off pre-made supermarket sandwiches and to be very careful with salads. And of course alcohol is a no-no. There is often lively debate around this issue with many people claiming small amounts of alcohol in pregnancy are fine, but it’s safest to stick to a no alcohol policy.
Read our First Trimester Pregnancy Nutrition guide for more information on the best diet for you and your baby.
Important issues this week
If you haven’t already decided then now is definitely the time to start thinking about where and how you want to give birth. It may seem like a long way in advance, but deciding now gives you plenty of time to iron out the final details as you progress through pregnancy. For example, how long it takes to get to the hospital if you’re in a rush, or if you’re a high risk mum-to-be due to previous deliveries, age or a complicated pregnancy, then you are unlikely to be able to have a homebirth.
Keeping fit, staying healthy
You’re not quite through the first trimester yet so chances are you are still feeling tired and sick. If you can’t stomach the thought of a prescribed exercise routine, then simple fresh air is beneficial. Try and stay moderately active if you can through gentle walks or a relaxing swim.
Looking forward; planning ahead
Newsflash: babies cost money. It’s a good idea to start thinking now about having a rough savings plan to ensure that you can meet all of your financial needs, e.g. baby equipment and covering your maternity leave (if applicable). From 10 weeks you can also claim dental care on the NHS and free prescriptions. Depending on your household income you may also be entitled to Healthy Start vouchers.
