Early pregnancy can be miserable. The sudden rush of hormones that starts in those first weeks causes mood swings, morning sickness and fatigue. These symptoms get old quick. Then week 13 comes, and things get better (for most). The body adjusts to the raging hormones and everything starts to mellow out. The second trimester is, for most women, comfortable and symptom-free. Week 13 also marks the point where the risk of miscarriage drops dramatically. Reaching this point in pregnancy can bring peace of mind to go with the physical comfort.
Baby at Week 13
A baby weighs just under an ounce and is about three inches long at 13 weeks. She has formed finger prints and can suck her thumb. All her vital organs and veins are visible through her skin, which is still very thin and fragile. All in all, the baby looks more like a baby at this point and less like a bug. Doctors might even be able to tell the baby's gender with a 3D ultrasound at this point. Don't be too disappointed if they can't; most doctors can tell for sure at about 20 weeks. Some might be able to feel tjheir baby move in the next week or two, but it is more common to feel the first movements at about week 16.
The Pregnant Body at Week 13
Since the baby is so tiny, some women might not be really showing yet. Most will have some waistline expansion by now, but it might be hard for other people to notice a pregnancy. Don't worry, the baby bump will be showing soon. Some might not be able to wear their pre-pregnancy jeans right now without a little help. One inexpensive choice is rigging pants up with string or elastic, but there are products available to help keep them on if the lady just is not ready for maternity clothes.
Symptoms at Week 13
Early pregnancy symptoms should start to taper off at this point. Most women will begin to get some energy back, and even some of their libido. Morning sickness usually peaks at about week 12 and then tapers off in week 13 through 16. Some women may begin to feel pressure in their pelvis. This is caused by the expansion of the uterus. Don't worry about this unless it is accompanied by sharp pain or bleeding.
What To Expect Next
Week 13 is the last week of the first trimester, so there are a lot of positives ahead in the pregnancy. The rate of miscarriage drops drastically at week 13, so many people will announce their pregnancies at this point. In the coming weeks, pregnant women will be able to watch their bellies grow and still be able to walk comfortably, for the most part. Most will experience fewer symptoms in the second trimester than any other part of the pregnancy. This is because the body has adjusted to the new hormone levels and the baby is still small enough to not cause discomfort. Enjoy this part of pregnancy as much as possible.
Things to Look Out For
If pregnant women experience any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, they should notify a doctor. This may not mean they are having a miscarriage, but there could be other complications that they should be aware of. Pregnant women should monitor their symptoms and report changes to their doctor so they can watch out for any potential red flags. Pregnant women should never use drugs or alcohol. These things can lead to severe birth defects.
Sources:
Baby Center: Your Pregnancy at 13 Weeks
Women's Healthcare Topics: 13 Weeks Pregnant
Parents Connect: 3D Pregnancy, 13 Weeks
Pregnancy Week By Week: Week 13
WebMD Baby Guide: Pregnancy Week By Week, Week 13
Elizabeth Beckwith - My name is Liz Beckwith, and I am a freelance writer. I am a certified paralegal, but I currently stay home with my 2 young kids. I have ...
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