Your Baby at 12 Weeks

A Closer Look at Week 12

Week 12 is often considered the end of the 'danger zone' of early pregnancy, and many parents choose this milestone to share their news with family and friends. Your baby is now the size of a plum and has developed a set of reflexes that are both functional and adorable. They can open and close their fingers, curl their toes, and even make sucking movements with their mouth — all in preparation for life outside the womb.

A major anatomical development is happening this week: the intestines, which had been developing inside the base of the umbilical cord because there wasn't enough room in the abdomen, are now migrating into the abdominal cavity as it expands. The kidneys are beginning to excrete urine into the amniotic fluid, and the bone marrow is starting to produce white blood cells to support the developing immune system.

Many women experience dizziness or lightheadedness around this time, caused by hormonal changes that lower blood pressure and increase blood flow. Standing up too quickly, skipping meals, or overheating can all trigger episodes. If you feel dizzy, sit down immediately, sip water, and take slow, deep breaths. Headaches are also common and can be managed with rest, hydration, and — if approved by your doctor — a paracetamol (acetaminophen).

This is an excellent time to start pelvic floor exercises if you haven't already. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel, helping to prevent urinary incontinence during and after pregnancy. To perform a Kegel, squeeze the muscles you would use to stop the flow of urine, hold for five seconds, then release. Aim for three sets of 10 repetitions per day. These exercises are invisible to everyone around you, so you can do them anywhere — at your desk, in traffic, or while watching television.