Introduction
Congratulations! You’re reaching the end of the first trimester – a major pregnancy milestone! By the third month, nausea may start easing up, and your baby is looking more human-like every day. This guide, inspired by What to Expect When You’re Expecting, will cover what’s happening with your baby, your changing body, and what’s next as you prepare for the second trimester.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
By week 12, your baby has graduated from an embryo to a fetus and is about the size of a plum!
✅ Organs Are Functioning: The kidneys, intestines, brain, and liver are working.
✅ Bones & Muscles Are Forming: Your baby’s arms and legs can now move!
✅ Facial Features Are Defined: Eyes have moved into place, and tiny ears are forming.
✅ Fingernails & Toenails Appear: Your little one is growing nails!
✅ Sex Organs Start Developing: Though it’s still too early for a gender reveal.
Your Changing Body – What to Expect in Month 3
Your body is working hard to support your growing baby. Here are common third-month pregnancy symptoms:
🔹 Decreasing Nausea: Morning sickness may ease up by the end of this month.
🔹 Increased Energy: Many moms-to-be feel less exhausted than in previous weeks.
🔹 Visible Baby Bump: You might notice a slight bump as your uterus expands.
🔹 Frequent Urination: The uterus is still pressing on your bladder.
🔹 Mood Swings & Emotional Changes: Hormones are still fluctuating, making you feel up and down.
Important To-Dos in the Third Month
✅ Start Sharing the News! Many parents wait until after the first trimester to announce their pregnancy.
✅ Book Your First Ultrasound. Around 12 weeks, many doctors perform a nuchal translucency (NT) scan to check for genetic abnormalities.
✅ Switch to Maternity Clothes. Your belly is growing, and comfortable clothing is a must!
✅ Keep Up With Your Prenatal Vitamins. Folic acid, iron, and DHA are essential.
✅ Plan for the Second Trimester. This is often called the “honeymoon phase” because energy levels improve!
Myths About the Third Month of Pregnancy
🚫 Myth: You Can Tell the Baby’s Gender Now. → Reality: Most ultrasounds can detect gender between weeks 16-20.
🚫 Myth: You Can’t Exercise. → Reality: Moderate exercise, like walking and prenatal yoga, is great for you!
🚫 Myth: A Small Bump Means a Small Baby. → Reality: Every belly grows at a different pace—bump size doesn’t predict baby size.
Final Thoughts
The third month of pregnancy is an exciting transition as your body adjusts and your baby grows rapidly. The second trimester is just around the corner, bringing more energy and exciting milestones. Stay informed, stay healthy, and enjoy the journey!
