Pregnancy Calendar – Week Twelve

At week twelve, the baby measures over two inches long and weighs 0.5 ounces; this is about as long as your thumb. Your baby’s face is almost fully formed, and the eyes have moved closer together. Tiny tooth buds and vocal cords have started to grow as well. The major organ systems have formed, and the intestines begin to contract to prepare for food digestion when the baby is born. The fingernails and toenails are starting to form, and the bones continue to harden. The muscles are now able to make purposeful motions, and reflexes are starting to develop.

Your first trimester is almost over, so some of your symptoms will probably get better—some may get worse. Many pregnant women report they have trouble concentrating and have periods of forgetfulness. The fact that your mind is on your pregnancy and the baby for a lot of the time can explain some of your distraction. Hormones and fatigue can play a part in memory problems as well. It may help to write things down; just don’t forget where you put your list! Also, try to cut down on the number of things you need to remember. Don’t be too hard on yourself; this forgetfulness is completely normal, and stressing about it will actually make it worse. Your memory will return to normal some time after your baby is born.

Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy and can be caused by several factors, including anxiety, less physical exercise, and the slow down of the digestive system due to hormones. Iron supplements can make constipation worse. To prevent or alleviate this problem, eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids. Try to exercise as much as possible; even a short daily walk can help. If you continue to have problems with constipation, talk to your doctor about changing your iron supplement or which medications may help you.

Hot Topic: Preparing siblings for the new baby

There are several things you can do to prepare the older sibling for the new baby. Talk to your child about your pregnancy in age-appropriate language and use words that describe the new baby from the child’s reference point (“your” new brother or sister). Involve your child with preparations for the baby, such as thinking of names or helping to choose items for the baby. Reinforce his or her role in the family and as a big brother or big sister. Also, if you are planning to use your toddler’s crib for the baby, transition him or her out of it a few months before the baby arrives so your older child doesn’t feel like the baby is displacing him or her. (For more information and tips, read: “Preparing Your Toddler for Another Baby.”)

Fast Fact: According to a University of Illinois Chicago study published last year, 42 percent of couples would not want to choose the sex of their baby before conception, even if they could.


Q&A: Sarah Maddison, MD, an experienced obstetrician in Raleigh, North Carolina, answers our readers’ questions.

Q: How much Omega 3 and Omega 6 are needed for the developing fetus? Are they well absorbed from supplements? What are some good natural sources?)

A: That’s hard to say.