Your Pregnancy: The Third Month

THE THIRD MONTH (Weeks 9-12)

Now called a fetus (at eight weeks), your baby will grow a lot this month! As a result, you are likely to feel more tired than ever.

Your Baby

By the end of the third month, your baby is about and three and a half inches long, or about the size of a plum. He or she is now officially a he or she, as the sex organs are developing but probably cannot be seen on an ultrasound quite yet. Your baby has grown fingers and toes, as well as fingernails and toenails! Bones, cartilage and teeth under the gums are forming and so are your baby’s muscles. Your baby can now move his or her arms and legs, though you won’t feel it for a couple more months. Your baby’s face has also formed and he or she may start sucking on a thumb or fist. Baby is making digestive juices and excreting urine. Although your baby is still very small, all his or her body parts and systems are in place.

Your Body

Growing a baby is hard work! In addition, your blood sugar and blood pressure have both dropped. So, don’t be surprised if you often feel tired during your third month. You may also be having some digestive issues. The hormone progesterone slows down digestion so that more nutrients can be absorbed by your body for your baby. Unfortunately, this slowed digestion can leave you feeling bloated and gassy. Headaches and dizziness are also likely during this time.

Weight gain during pregnancy is normal and you may have gained a few pounds. No need to hit the maternity stores yet, but clothes might be getting tighter. You might also notice a slight rounding in your abdomen – not surprising since your uterus is now the size of a grapefruit.

What You Need to Know

Keep taking those prenatal supplements. It can be hard to eat healthy when you are feeling morning sick and gassy, but do the best you can. Your baby is growing at a rapid rate and needs all the nutrients you can give her. If you are not taking a calcium supplement, now is a great time to start. Calcium helps your baby to develop strong bones and teeth. Remember to stay hydrated. Carrying a water bottle around can really help.

This is a good time to start looking into birth classes. The kind of class you take will depend of the kind of birth you are planning. For those planning a hospital birth, the hospital is probably the best place to check for classes. If you are planning a natural birth, check with midwives, birth centers, or with professionals who are trained in the kind of birth you would like to have.

This may be your most tiring month, so be sure to get a lot of rest. Even a catnap in the middle of the day can help. Taking time for a cup of tea can also help. Tea for Two is a delicious herbal blend made especially for pregnant moms!

Read More About the Different Months in Pregnancy:

• First Month
• Second Month
• Third Month
• Fourth Month
• Fifth Month
• Sixth Month
• Seventh Month
• Eighth Month
• Ninth Month

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