Congratulations on reaching the 10th week of your pregnancy! By now, you may have already shared your amazing news with friends and family, or you might be waiting until the end of the first trimester.

Either way, a lot is happening inside and outside your womb at this stage. Let’s dive in and discover what’s going on during the 10-week mark of your pregnancy.

1. Your Baby’s Development

At this point, your baby is approximately 1.2 to 1.6 inches long and weighs around 0.14 ounces. To put that into perspective, it’s roughly the size of a prune! Within your little one’s body, tiny organs are starting to develop rapidly.

The vital systems of the body, including the heart, kidney, liver, and brain, are taking form.

2. Fingers and Toes

Although still webbed, your baby’s fingers and toes are beginning to separate. These little extremities will continue to grow and develop throughout your pregnancy, gradually becoming more defined.

3. Rapid Head Growth

During week 10, the head of your baby is growing at an incredible pace! It’s currently about half the size of the whole body. The brain is also developing rapidly, with billions of neurons being generated and synapses forming between them.

4. Facial Features

Delicate facial features are starting to emerge as your baby’s eyes, nose, and mouth develop. Although the eyelids are fused shut, the retinas are forming behind them.

Your little one’s ears are also progressing, and by now, the inner ear, responsible for hearing, is well on its way to development.

5. The Placenta at Work

By the 10th week, the placenta has taken over hormone production from the corpus luteum. It now produces progesterone and estrogen, crucial for the maintenance of your pregnancy.

The placenta also acts as a barrier, preventing harmful substances from reaching your baby.

6. Nausea and Morning Sickness

At this stage, many expectant mothers experience one of the most common pregnancy symptoms: nausea and morning sickness. Although the name suggests it only happens in the morning, these unpleasant feelings can occur at any time of day.

Remember, every woman’s experience is different, with some experiencing it more intensely than others.

7. Heightened Sense of Smell

Your hormones are in full swing during week 10, leading to sensory changes. It’s common for pregnant women to develop a heightened sense of smell. This newfound ability may result in certain scents becoming overpowering and even triggering nausea.

8. Emotional Rollercoaster

Pregnancy hormones can also have a significant impact on your emotional state. You might find yourself feeling more emotional than usual, experiencing rapid shifts in mood or being more sensitive to certain situations.

Remember to give yourself extra love and care during this time as you navigate these changes.

9. Important First Trimester Prenatal Visit

During the 10th week of pregnancy, it’s common for expectant mothers to have their first prenatal visit.

This appointment is an opportunity for your healthcare provider to assess your overall health, confirm your due date, and check on your baby’s development using ultrasound technology. It’s an exciting milestone in your pregnancy journey!.

10. Taking Care of Yourself

As you progress through your pregnancy, it’s essential to prioritize self-care.

Adequate rest, a balanced diet, regular exercise (if approved by your healthcare provider), and staying hydrated are crucial for your well-being and the healthy development of your baby. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team if you have any concerns or questions along the way.

Conclusion

Week 10 of pregnancy marks a significant milestone on your journey to motherhood. Your baby is rapidly developing in size and complexity, with vital organs starting to form.

While you may be experiencing common pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness and emotional changes, remember to take care of yourself and enjoy this special time. Cherish the new life growing inside you and look forward to the next stage of your incredible pregnancy.