Baby development at 14 weeks
Making faces
Thanks to brain impulses, your baby’s facial muscles are getting a workout. Those tiny features can squint, frown, and grimace. Your baby is also making sucking and chewing movements.
Growing hair
Soft baby hair is coming: Hair follicles have started to form deep in your baby’s skin. Around 20 weeks, fine downy hair will sprout from these follicles on your baby’s eyebrows, upper lip, and chin.
Your active baby
Though you can’t feel those tiny punches and kicks yet, your baby is quite active and has flexible hands and feet.
They grow so fast!
You may wonder why this week’s fetal length measurement (below) is so much bigger than last week’s. Your baby hasn’t doubled in length in a week – there’s just a change in how they’re measured at 14 weeks (from head to bottom to head to toe).
Your baby is about the size of a lemon
Pregnancy symptoms during week 14
Is morning sickness no longer bothering you? Your energy may be returning, and any queasiness might have subsided. If not, hang in there – chances are high that morning sickness will soon be a thing of the past, if it isn’t already. Although rare, some expectant mothers may still experience nausea in the coming months. If you’re still dealing with nausea or vomiting, make sure to inform your healthcare provider during your next appointment.
The beginning of a noticeable change
The upper part of your uterus is now slightly above your pubic bone, possibly causing a subtle protrusion of your abdomen. Witnessing the start of your baby bump can be an exciting moment, providing visible proof for you and your partner of the impending arrival. For a glimpse of how other women look at 14 weeks pregnant, explore our gallery of pregnant bellies photos.
Dealing with bleeding gums
Approximately half of pregnant women experience swollen, red, and tender gums that bleed during flossing or brushing. This gum inflammation, known as pregnancy gingivitis, is partly attributed to hormonal shifts that heighten gum sensitivity to plaque bacteria. Ensure you brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly.
Navigating round ligament pain
On each side of your uterus, two ligaments stretch and thicken to accommodate your expanding belly, potentially causing round ligament pain. This discomfort may manifest as a brief, stabbing pain with movement or a dull ache after an active day. If you experience round ligament pain, consider resting, paying attention to your posture, changing positions, gentle massage, or a warm bath. Some women find relief by wearing a maternity belt for additional support.
Managing increased appetite
Pregnancy hunger often begins and peaks in the second trimester. Your body is diligently working to support your baby, requiring additional energy. Your meals play a crucial role in fueling the changes associated with pregnancy, such as increased blood volume, growing breasts and uterus, and heightened fat stores. Aim for an extra 300 to 350 calories per day in the second trimester. If you’re curious about how to plan healthy pregnancy meals, explore more about the topic.
Pregnancy checklist at 14 weeks pregnant
Maintain Oral Health: Schedule a Dental Check-Up
Ensure your teeth are in top shape by scheduling a dental check-up for a thorough cleaning. Visiting the dentist during pregnancy is not only safe but highly recommended. Inform your dental team about your pregnancy before the cleaning to address any specific considerations.
Stay Active: Join a Prenatal Exercise Class
Take advantage of renewed energy by enrolling in a prenatal exercise class. Physical activity during pregnancy offers numerous benefits, including mood improvement, better sleep, reduced complications, and preparation for childbirth. Consider classes like prenatal yoga or water exercise to connect with other expecting moms.
Name Your Baby: Begin the Naming Journey
Start contemplating baby names, exploring meanings, history, and popularity. Utilize the Baby Names Finder and peruse inspiration lists spanning from 1880 to the present. Whether you’ve had a name in mind for years or are just starting to think about it, now is the time to explore options.
Enhance Sleep Quality: Adopt Healthy Sleeping Habits
Improve sleep quality during pregnancy by reducing caffeine intake, practicing relaxation techniques, and trying suitable pregnancy pillows. Establish a bedtime routine, and consider a warm milk and light snack before bed. Consult your healthcare provider for safe sleep medications, avoiding herbal and hormonal remedies that may not be suitable during pregnancy.
Nourish Your Skin: Invest in Quality Moisturizers
Alleviate itchiness with a quality moisturizer, recognizing that it may not prevent stretch marks. Explore options for managing stretch marks and itchy skin during pregnancy to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
Workplace Support: Navigate Pregnancy in the Workplace
Seek support at work, especially if your job presents challenges during pregnancy. Understand your rights, considering modifications or leave if necessary. Legal protections against discrimination due to pregnancy exist, and you may be eligible for disability benefits. If your job involves physical strain, consult your healthcare provider and discuss potential adjustments with your supervisor.
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