Weeks 9-12: Fetal Formation Period
This period is the final stage of the first trimester. The fetal organ systems are basically developed, the shape is clearer, and the risk of miscarriage is significantly reduced.
Fetal Development Characteristics
Week 9: Human-like Features
- Appearance Changes: Large head and small body, more human-like
- Facial Development: Eyes are more obvious, ears begin to form
- Limb Development: Fingers and toes are fully differentiated
- Internal Organs: Basic organs are formed and begin to work
- Body Length: About 3 cm, weight about 1 g
Week 10: Nervous System Development
- Brain Development: Brain structure differentiates rapidly
- Muscle Activity: Spontaneous muscle activity begins
- Skeletal Development: Ossification process begins
- Reproductive Organs: Gender characteristics begin to differentiate
- Body Length: About 3.5-4 cm
Week 11: Organ Function Perfection
- Digestive System: Intestines begin to work
- Urinary System: Kidneys begin to produce urine
- Respiratory System: Chest begins breathing-like movements
- Circulatory System: Heart function is perfect
- Body Length: About 5-6 cm, weight about 8-10 g
Week 12: End of First Trimester
- Appearance Features: Facial features are basically formed, fingerprints can be seen
- Motor Ability: Can kick, turn over, make a fist
- Physiological Function: Organs begin to work together
- Body Length: About 6-7 cm, weight about 14 g
Maternal Changes
Physiological Changes
- Relief of Early Pregnancy Reactions: Nausea and vomiting symptoms are reduced or disappear
- Weight Changes: May increase slightly or remain stable
- Abdominal Changes: Abdomen begins to bulge slightly
- Skin Changes: Pigmentation may occur
- Hair Changes: Hair becomes thicker and shiny
Uterine Changes
- Uterine Size: About the size of a fist
- Uterine Position: Gradually rises to the pelvic cavity
- Abdominal Palpation: The doctor can feel the fundus of the uterus in the abdomen
Medical Checkups
NT Scan (11-13+6 Weeks)
Nuchal Translucency Scan:
- Measure fetal neck skin thickness
- Assess chromosomal abnormality risk
- Early Down syndrome screening
- Combined with Down screening for risk assessment
Down Screening
- Maternal Serum Screening: Detect specific markers in blood
- Risk Assessment: Calculate Down syndrome risk
- Accuracy: About 75-80%
- Follow-up: High risk requires amniocentesis
Ultrasound Examination
- Fetal Development: Confirm if development is normal
- Heartbeat Monitoring: Check heart rate and rhythm
- Organ Check: Main organ morphology check
- Multiple Pregnancy Confirmation: Confirm single or multiple pregnancy
Nutritional Needs
Key Nutrients
- DHA: Supports brain and vision development
- Protein: Supports rapid tissue growth
- Iron: Prevent pregnancy anemia
- Calcium: Support skeletal development
- Iodine: Support thyroid function
Dietary Suggestions
- High-quality Protein: 75 g of high-quality protein per day
- Deep-sea Fish: 2-3 times a week, rich in DHA
- Green Leafy Vegetables: Supplement folic acid and iron
- Dairy Products: Supplement calcium
- Nuts and Seeds: Provide essential fatty acids
Exercise Suggestions
Suitable Exercises
- Walking: 30 minutes a day, promote blood circulation
- Prenatal Yoga: Enhance flexibility, relieve discomfort
- Swimming: Reduce joint pressure, exercise whole body
- Light Strength Training: Use light dumbbells
Precautions
- Avoid strenuous exercise and high temperature environment
- Keep fully hydrated during exercise
- Stop immediately if discomfort occurs
- Choose supportive sports shoes
Emotional Health
Psychological Changes
- More adapted and accepting of pregnancy
- Enhanced protection and maternity towards the fetus
- Both expectation and anxiety about future delivery
- Hormonal changes affect emotional stability
Regulation Methods
- Active Communication: Share feelings with partner
- Knowledge Learning: Learn pregnancy knowledge to reduce anxiety
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing and meditation
- Social Activities: Meet with friends, maintain social interaction
Life Adjustment
Clothing Choice
- Choose loose and comfortable maternity clothes
- Wear supportive maternity underwear
- Choose flat and comfortable shoes
- Avoid tight belts
Work Arrangement
- Avoid standing or sitting for a long time
- Get up and move regularly to promote blood circulation
- Reduce overtime, ensure adequate rest
- Avoid contact with harmful substances
Partner Role
Emotional Support
- Understand and accept pregnant woman's mood swings
- Actively take on more housework responsibilities
- Accompany prenatal checkups, participate in the pregnancy process
- Plan and discuss future parenting arrangements
Caring Care
- Prepare nutritionally balanced meals
- Arrange a comfortable resting environment
- Remind to take medicine and supplements on time
- Pay attention to the daily needs of pregnant women
Preparing for Second Trimester
First Trimester Summary
- Fetus is basically formed, organs are developed
- Miscarriage risk is significantly reduced
- Early pregnancy reactions gradually subside
- Can appropriately resume normal activities
Second Trimester Outlook
- Fetus enters rapid growth period
- Fetal movement can be felt
- Pregnant woman is more energetic
- More prenatal checkup items are needed
Common Questions
Q: When can I feel fetal movement? A: Primiparas usually feel fetal movement at 18-20 weeks, multiparas may be earlier.
Q: Can I continue sexual life during pregnancy? A: If there are no high-risk factors, it can be carried out after the first trimester, but choose a comfortable position.
Q: When to start wearing maternity clothes? A: Generally needed starting from 12-16 weeks, adjust according to personal body shape changes.
Friendly Reminder: Although the first trimester is over, continuous attention to health changes is needed throughout pregnancy, and on-time prenatal checkups are very important.