11 Weeks Pregnant: What to Do — Complete Guide

At eleven weeks pregnant, you are nearly through your first trimester. Your baby is about the size of a fig and is growing rapidly. The end of the first trimester is in sight, which often brings a sense of relief as the risk of miscarriage significantly decreases after week 12.

What is happening with your baby

During week eleven, your baby is growing quickly. The fingers and toes are no longer webbed. Your baby is starting to move, though you will not feel these movements for some time. The ears are moving to their final position on the sides of the head, and tooth buds are forming. The reproductive organs are developing, and your baby's heart is pumping efficiently.

What to do this week

Attend your dating scan

If your scan is scheduled this week, make sure you attend. The dating scan is an NHS ultrasound offered between weeks 11 and 14. The sonographer will:

• Measure your baby to confirm your due date
• Check your baby's heartbeat and development
• Offer the nuchal translucency measurement as part of the combined test for screening
• Check for any obvious issues with your uterus or ovaries

You may need a full bladder for the scan, so follow the instructions you receive.

Have your combined screening blood test

If you are having screening for Down's syndrome, Edward's syndrome, and Patau's syndrome, your blood test is usually taken at the same time as your dating scan. The results combine with the nuchal translucency measurement to give a risk assessment.

Continue your supplements

Keep taking 400 micrograms of folic acid and 10 micrograms of vitamin D. If your blood tests show low iron levels, your midwife may recommend an iron supplement too.

Begin thinking about sharing your news

Many women and couples choose to announce their pregnancy after the first scan. If your scan shows all is well, you might feel ready to tell wider family, friends, and colleagues. Think about how you want to share the news and who you want to tell first.

Managing symptoms at eleven weeks

Easing nausea

Morning sickness often begins to improve around this time. If you are still struggling, keep using the strategies that have helped so far. If symptoms are severe, contact your GP, as treatments are available.

Growing bump

Your bump may be becoming more noticeable. Your uterus is rising out of your pelvis, which can make your clothes feel tight. Now might be the time to invest in some maternity wear or comfortable, stretchy clothing.

Energy levels

As you approach the second trimester, you may find your energy returning. Enjoy it if you do, but do not push yourself too hard. Gentle exercise and fresh air can help you feel your best.

Linea nigra

You might notice a dark line appearing down the centre of your belly. This is called the linea nigra and is caused by pregnancy hormones. It is completely normal and usually fades after birth.

Nutrition this week

Your appetite may be returning, but continue to make healthy choices. Focus on:

• Lean protein such as cooked chicken, fish, tofu, and eggs
• Calcium from pasteurised dairy or fortified alternatives
• Iron from red meat, lentils, and spinach
• Fibre from wholegrains, fruit, and vegetables
• Omega-3 from cooked oily fish, walnuts, and chia seeds

Exercise and wellbeing

Gentle exercise is beneficial. Good options include:

• Walking and hiking on flat terrain
• Swimming
• Prenatal yoga or Pilates
• Low-impact aerobics

Avoid contact sports, heavy lifting, and activities with a high risk of falling. If you attend fitness classes, let your instructor know you are pregnant so they can adapt exercises for you.

What to avoid

• All alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs
• Raw and undercooked meat, fish, and eggs
• Unpasteurised dairy and soft cheeses
• Blue-veined cheeses unless cooked thoroughly
• High-mercury fish such as shark, swordfish, and marlin
• Caffeine above 200mg daily
• Cat litter trays

Emotional wellbeing

Approaching the end of the first trimester can be an emotional time. You might feel excited, relieved, or still a little anxious. If you have had a difficult first trimester, acknowledge what you have been through. Speak to your midwife if you need additional support.

When to seek help

Seek urgent medical attention for heavy bleeding, severe pain, shoulder pain, fever, or signs of infection. For less urgent concerns, contact your midwife.

Summary

Week eleven is a pivotal week, often marked by your first scan. Keep up your healthy habits, attend your appointments, and look forward to the second trimester.