12 weeks pregnant
Length: 4.8 cmWeight: 14 g
Baby development
Yawn... That's right, I can yawn now! I can also suck and swallow.
Little hair follicles have begun sprouting up to protect my skin, and nails have begun to feature on my fingers and toes. My facial features are a lot more prominent and I can furrow my brow and make cute little faces. What a sight! The heart pumps blood into my fully functional organs, including the umbilical cord which transports blood and oxygen via the placenta. All my nutrition goes through the placenta now, so my mum mustn’t forget to think about what she eats and drinks.
Fingers and toes are now separated and I have got my fingerprints! The genitals are beginning to take shape and now slowly reveal my gender. I think I am a … no, I don’t know. However, the pituitary gland that is in the brain is now starting to produce hormones.
Mothers development
You’ll soon be able to let go of any lingering fears of a miscarriage. By the end of the week, the risk will have dropped significantly.
If you haven’t shared the news with friends and family, now might be the time to do so, or you could choose to wait a while longer. The choice is yours. You are likely starting to overcome the feelings of moodiness you previously felt and are now a lot more upbeat.
If you have previously considered prenatal testing to uncover any genetic anomalies, this might be the time to follow through with that. Prenatal testing involves some blood tests and an ultrasound and it is conducted to investigate the likelihood of a possible chromosomal aberration in the fetus. As far as prenatal testing is concerned, it is important that you carefully consider why you want to do this and what the likely consequences would be depending on its outcome. Discuss it with your potential partner and care provider before making any decisions.
Co-parent
Things are starting to look up with your partner slowly reverting to her usual self.
The pangs of nausea are on the wane, energy is slowly returning and there is a possibility you might get to see life outside the confines of your sofa, bed, and home. Maybe it’s time to go on a date? Invite some friends over for dinner? Or maybe your libido has returned? Whatever it is, take advantage of it! Have sex and enjoy each other again. Many might initially find it strange with a baby in there, but simply try to keep such thoughts at bay and enjoy one another…if you both have the desire.
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