Time flies! You are already facing the 11th week of pregnancy and the end of the long-suffering first trimester (which ends at number 12) is on the horizon. In the 11th week of gestation an important change occurs: the genitals begin to be distinguished.
In this period, your baby will measure between four and six centimeters, while its weight is around eight grams. Yes, it seems very little, but its development is advancing by leaps and bounds. The mother’s symptoms also evolve and, in some cases, the tummy begins to show.
The baby’s head occupies half of his body, but his ears are beginning to define and settle into their final position. The chin and neck appear little by little. In addition, the membranes that joined the fingers disappear, the nails begin to differentiate and they can now open and close their little hands.
Another important milestone is that their external genitalia begin to be distinguished, although it is likely that they cannot be clearly seen on ultrasound. Patience, you probably have to wait a little longer to find out their sex.
The baby is already moving a lot inside the amniotic bag, even if you don’t perceive it yet. In this week his diaphragm develops, so he may start to hiccup. Don’t panic, this is completely normal.
In the eleventh week of gestation, the ultrasound transmits very important information. It will reveal if there is any serious malformation or if any limb is missing.
On the other hand, the fetal DNA detection test can now be performed in maternal blood. This blood test looks for genetic alterations in the fetus. Its results determine trisomy 13 or Patau syndrome; trisomy 18 or Edwards syndrome; or trisomy 21 or Down syndrome.
Some women will see their incipient gut this week, although it will depend on the constitution and the particular case of each one. The safest thing is that you finally say goodbye to nausea and dizziness. Although gastric discomfort such as heartburn and gas will worsen instead.
Headache, tiredness, fatigue and leg cramps will knock on the door. Regarding the weight gain, it is not very significant at the moment. Instead, due to increased blood volume, your hair and skin will look very bright and healthy.
You will also notice your breasts a little larger, an increase in vaginal discharge and it is possible that a long, dark line will begin to appear on your belly, associated with hormonal changes. And speaking of hormones, mood swings will be more recurrent.
As general recommendations for this period, try to follow a healthy and balanced diet. Eat light meals divided into several intakes throughout the day to relieve heartburn. And, of course, do not hesitate to consult with your doctor all your doubts and discomfort.
