Pregnancy
Week by Week

No. The fruit and vegetable comparisons on this page are visual references designed to help users understand the approximate size range of a baby during different weeks of pregnancy. They are not ultrasound measurements and cannot be used to determine whether a baby is developing normally. 

Fruit naturally varies in size, and babies at the same gestational age can also show normal individual differences. A baby’s actual size and growth pattern must be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional using ultrasound measurements, previous examination results and appropriate fetal-growth reference standards.

Fetal development is a continuous process; a developmental change does not suddenly begin or end when a new week starts. In general, the first trimester involves the formation of the embryo and the early development of major body structures. During the second trimester, the baby enters a period of rapid growth and development. In the third trimester, the baby continues to gain weight while multiple organ systems mature further. 

Every baby develops at a slightly different pace. Actual growth and development should be assessed through prenatal examinations, ultrasound evaluations and the professional judgment of your doctor or midwife.

First trimester: Nausea, tiredness and breast tenderness may occur. Eating small, frequent meals, staying hydrated and getting enough rest may help.

Second trimester: Back discomfort, heartburn or leg cramps may become more noticeable. Gentle activity, posture adjustments and supportive products may improve comfort.

Third trimester: Difficulty sleeping, frequent urination and swelling of the feet or ankles may occur. Side-sleeping support, elevating the legs and avoiding prolonged standing may help.

Pregnancy products can only provide support and improve comfort. If symptoms are severe, continue to worsen or are accompanied by warning signs such as bleeding or severe abdominal pain, contact your doctor or midwife promptly.

According to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, or RCOG, nausea and vomiting in pregnancy usually begin early in pregnancy, most commonly between weeks 4 and 7. For most people, symptoms improve before 20 weeks, although they can last longer. Despite the name, morning sickness can occur at any time of day. 

If you are vomiting repeatedly, cannot keep food or fluids down, show signs of dehydration or find that the symptoms are seriously affecting your daily life, contact a qualified healthcare professional promptly.

Most women first notice their baby moving at 18 to 20 weeks. In a first pregnancy, this may happen after 20 weeks; if you have been pregnant before, you may feel movement as early as 16 weeks. If you have not felt any movement by 24 weeks, contact your midwife or maternity unit so your baby’s heartbeat can be checked. Once movements begin, get to know your baby’s usual pattern and seek help immediately if movements decrease, stop, or change noticeably. (www-preview.rcog.org.uk)

Between 28 and 32 weeks, you can start discussing the place of birth, birth partner arrangements, pain relief, and feeding preferences with your doctor or midwife. Aim to have your hospital bag ready by 36–37 weeks. If you are at risk of preterm birth, expecting multiples, or advised by your doctor to prepare earlier, start sooner. A hospital bag commonly includes:

• Documents: ID, medical records, insurance information, and birth plan.

• For mum: loose clothing, nursing bra, maternity pads, toiletries, regular medicines, water bottle, snacks, and phone charger.

• For baby: onesies, nappies, blanket, hat and socks, and going-home clothes.

• For discharge: an infant car seat that complies with local regulations.

Before packing, ask the hospital what it provides to avoid bringing duplicate items.

As the bump grows, many expectant mothers find side-sleeping more comfortable than lying on their back, especially in the second and third trimesters. Sleeping with knees slightly bent and using a pregnancy pillow or ordinary pillows for support — between the knees, under the bump, or behind the back — can help distribute pressure and reduce discomfort when turning. U-shaped, C-shaped, and long pregnancy pillows have no single best option; choose based on where you feel discomfort and your sleep habits.

For expectant mothers who have no exercise restrictions or pregnancy complications, suitable options often include walking, swimming or water exercise, stationary cycling, modified prenatal yoga or Pilates, and moderate strength training and pelvic floor exercises. The World Health Organization recommends that pregnant women without contraindications get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity over the course of a week, along with muscle-strengthening activities that suit them. The total can be spread across different days of the week.

During pregnancy, you can prepare for breastfeeding by:

• taking a prenatal breastfeeding class or speaking with a professional;

• learning about colostrum, correct latch, breastfeeding positions, and your baby’s hunger cues;

• discussing skin-to-skin contact and plans for early breastfeeding with your medical team;

• finding out about local lactation consultants, midwives, and postpartum support resources;

• talking with your partner and family about rest, food, and sharing care after birth;

• learning about breast pumps and milk storage containers if you plan to return to work, be separated from your baby, or express milk.