In week nine of pregnancy there are hundreds of small changes going on inside your womb. Only time will tell what’s ahead but it’s exciting to think that your tiny foetus is already becoming its own little person.
Your baby’s development
This week your baby is the size of a… grape.
This week your baby will start to make very small movements, although you still won’t feel anything for a few more weeks. Your baby’s features are becoming more defined and the specific areas starting to develop are:
- Eye colour
- All elements of the mouth (including teeth forming under the gums)
- Genitalia (although this would not yet distinguishable on a scan yet)
- Hair follicles
- Nipples
- Pancreas
- Gall bladder
Your physical pregnancy changes
You won’t be showing any signs of a bump yet, but you may have noticed your nipples have darkened and that you’re producing more vaginal discharge than before.
Some women will occasionally feel stomach cramps similar to period pain. This is generally nothing to worry about, however if they are persistent or if there is any vaginal bleeding then be sure to get it checked out with your doctor or midwife.
With the noticeable changes in your breast size, it’s quite common for lumps and bumps to appear. The majority of the time this is down to hormonal changes as your breasts prepare themselves for producing milk. The Australian Breastfeeding Association has more information on breast conditions during and after pregnancy, however, if you have any concerns do not hesitate to get checked out by your doctor.
This week you may also feel:
- A little guilty about not having many ‘maternal feelings’ yet. Don’t worry, this will soon change!
- A little bit down – a combination of morning sickness, tiredness and raging hormones will be causing this. It’s completely normal and should pass over the next couple of weeks.
Your health and fitness during pregnancy
If your fitness routine usually includes kickboxing or rock climbing then it’s time to switch to some less strenuous pregnancy-friendly exercise such as swimming or yoga. Just advise your instructor you’re pregnant before starting any new activity. Not feeling up to it? Try keeping active whenever you can, even if it’s just going for a stroll around the block.
Your week 9 pregnancy checklist
- Start a baby journal – these early stages will soon be a distant memory and you’ll be glad you wrote everything down in the months and years to come!
- Check yourself in for a prenatal scan – at this point you’ll be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat, which makes it all the more real.
- Talk to your health care provider about your hospital booking appointment; this is often arranged for after your 12-week scan.
- As the end of the first trimester approaches, think about how and when you’re going to share your exciting news with the world.
- Plan to do something nice together with your partner. It’ll make you feel better and help you bond with your partner during the initial stages of your pregnancy.