How Your Baby's
Growing
Did
you know that at 11 weeks pregnant your baby can stretch, sigh, and suck his
thumb?
At
about 1 ½ inches long, your baby is about the size of a fig. From now till week
20 of your pregnancy, he will grow 30 folds in weight and will triple in
height. Now your baby is looking more like a human and nearly all his organs
and structures are formed and have begun functioning. The genitals are
beginning to take on either male or female form
He's
already kicking and stretching inside your belly. But don’t worry; his tiny movements
are so effortless, they look like water bullets- you will start to feel his
acrobatics in another month or two as his body becomes more developed and
functional. His diaphragm is also forming, and a few weeks from now, you will
start to notice the hiccups as it forms.
How Your Life's
Changing
If
this is your first pregnancy, then it's likely you are still not showing at
this stage, but your boobs are starting to look too big for your shirt! You
should consider buying a new set of bra’s now, preferably nursing bra’s as
these are fit for breastfeeding (if you intend breastfeeding)and they are made
to keep up with your increasing breast size.
You
may also be experiencing bloating and heartburn now, but the great news is you
will start feeling more energetic soon, and the nausea is gradually fading.
Your appetite will also return this week, and you'll start gaining about a
pound a week.
Tips And To-Do’s This
Week
Your Nutrition
The
next 2 months will be a period of rapid development for you and the baby. You
will feel thirsty often because your body is producing more blood, oil, sweat,
and amniotic fluid. So it’s a good idea to carry water or a beverage with you
wherever you go. Drink lots of water and milk, but steer clear from carbonated
beverages.
Conduct an Ultrasound
It is
important to consult with your doctor to determine if genetic testing and
prenatal screening are right for you. Certain prenatal screening tests can
begin when you are 11 weeks pregnant.
The NT
(nuchal translucency) is a combination of a special ultrasound test. During the
11 weeks pregnant ultrasound, your doctor or scientist will measure the
translucent space in the tissue behind your baby’s neck; an abnormal
measurement could be a sign of a chromosomal abnormality. A blood test will
also screen for low or high hormone levels, and the results will determine if
your baby is at risk of having a chromosomal condition or Down syndrome.
Plan a Vacation
Start
planning a babymoon! A romantic outing with your partner is highly recommended
now because you feel more energized in this second trimester, and you really
won’t feel like doing a lot of traveling when you hit the third trimester. So while
you can, pack your bags and go have fun!
As always, if you need more information, I recommend: http://www.manyweekspregnant.com/11-weeks-pregnant/