11 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development, Symptoms & What to Expect

How Big Is My Baby at 11 Weeks Pregnant?

At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby measures approximately 4-5 centimeters (1.6-2 inches) from crown to rump and weighs about 7-8 grams (0.25 ounces). This is roughly the size of a lime or a large fig. The baby's head still makes up about half of the total body length, but the body is growing rapidly to catch up.

This week marks an exciting milestone in your baby's development. Your little one has officially transitioned from an embryo to a fetus, which occurred around week 10. The term "fetus" will be used from now until birth. This transition signifies that all the major structures and organ systems are now in place, though they will continue to grow, develop, and mature throughout the remainder of your pregnancy.

The proportions of your baby's body are changing rapidly. While the head is still disproportionately large compared to the rest of the body, the torso is beginning to straighten out, and the limbs are growing longer. Your baby's neck is developing, allowing the head to lift away from the chest. The ears are moving toward their final position on the sides of the head, and the eyes have moved from the sides to the front of the face.

One of the most remarkable developments at 11 weeks is the formation of your baby's facial features. The nasal passages are now open, and the lips and tiny tooth buds are forming beneath the gums. The palate (roof of the mouth) is fusing together, a critical process that continues through week 12. Your baby's unique fingerprints are also beginning to form on their tiny fingertips.

Organ Development at Week 11

By 11 weeks, all of your baby's major organs have formed and are now functioning at a basic level. The kidneys are beginning to produce urine, which is released into the amniotic fluid. The intestines, which temporarily grew outside the body into the umbilical cord, are now moving back into the abdominal cavity. This process of intestinal rotation is a crucial developmental step that occurs around this time.

The brain is developing rapidly, with neurons multiplying at an astonishing rate of about 250,000 new brain cells per minute. The diaphragm is forming, and your baby may even start practicing breathing movements, though actual breathing will not occur until after birth. The liver is hard at work producing red blood cells, a function that the bone marrow will eventually take over later in pregnancy.

Your baby's reproductive organs are developing, though it is still too early to determine the sex on an ultrasound. The ovaries or testes are forming internally, and external genitalia are beginning to differentiate, but they will not be clearly visible until around weeks 18-20.

Baby's Movements

At 11 weeks, your baby is remarkably active, though you cannot feel these movements yet. Your little one can now open and close their hands, making fist-like gestures. They can stretch, roll, and even do somersaults in the amniotic fluid. The muscles and nervous system are coordinating to produce these movements, which help with muscle development and coordination.

Some babies at this stage can be seen on ultrasound hiccupping, yawning, or making swallowing motions. These are all signs of a healthy, developing nervous system. You will likely not feel your baby's movements until somewhere between 16-22 weeks, depending on whether this is your first pregnancy and your individual sensitivity to these sensations.

What Are the Common Symptoms at 11 Weeks Pregnant?

Common symptoms at 11 weeks pregnant include fatigue, nausea and morning sickness, breast tenderness, increased urination, mood swings, food aversions, bloating, and mild headaches. Many women notice their symptoms beginning to ease slightly as they approach the second trimester, though this varies considerably between individuals.

The symptoms you experience at 11 weeks can vary widely from one woman to another. Some women continue to feel significantly affected by first-trimester symptoms, while others may notice a gradual improvement. This variation is completely normal and is influenced by factors such as hormone levels, overall health, stress levels, and genetic predisposition.

Understanding what to expect can help you manage your symptoms more effectively and know when something might warrant medical attention. Let's explore the most common symptoms in detail.

Fatigue and Exhaustion

Feeling extremely tired is one of the most common complaints during the first trimester, and it often continues into week 11. Your body is working incredibly hard to support the developing pregnancy. The placenta is still forming, and your body is producing more blood to supply oxygen and nutrients to your baby. These physiological changes require significant energy expenditure.

The hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining pregnancy, has a sedating effect that contributes to feelings of tiredness. Additionally, the metabolic demands of pregnancy mean your body is burning more calories even at rest. Many women find they need more sleep than usual and may benefit from short naps during the day if their schedule allows.

To manage fatigue, try to prioritize rest and sleep, maintain regular gentle exercise if approved by your healthcare provider, eat small frequent meals to keep energy levels stable, and delegate tasks when possible. The good news is that energy levels typically improve in the second trimester for most women.

Nausea and Morning Sickness

Despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of day. At 11 weeks, many women are still experiencing nausea, though some may notice it beginning to decrease. Research suggests that nausea and vomiting during pregnancy typically peak around weeks 9-10 and gradually improve between weeks 12-14 for most women.

The exact cause of morning sickness is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which peaks around this time and then begins to decline. Estrogen and enhanced sense of smell may also play roles in triggering nausea.

If you are still struggling with morning sickness, try eating small, frequent meals to avoid an empty stomach. Ginger in various forms (tea, candies, or supplements) has been shown in studies to help reduce nausea. Staying hydrated is crucial, so try sipping fluids throughout the day. Vitamin B6 supplements may help some women and are considered safe during pregnancy.

Breast Changes

Your breasts continue to change at 11 weeks as they prepare for breastfeeding. Many women notice their breasts feel fuller, heavier, and more tender than before pregnancy. The areolas (the darker area around the nipples) may appear larger and darker, and you might notice small bumps called Montgomery tubercles appearing on the areolas.

These changes are caused by increased blood flow and hormonal changes, particularly the rise in estrogen and progesterone. Your milk ducts are beginning to develop, and your breasts may have already increased by one or two cup sizes. A well-fitting, supportive bra can help manage discomfort.

Increased Urination

Frequent trips to the bathroom are common at 11 weeks. Your blood volume has increased significantly, which means your kidneys are filtering more fluid. Additionally, your growing uterus is still putting pressure on your bladder. While this symptom may ease temporarily in the second trimester as your uterus rises above the pelvic brim, it typically returns later in pregnancy as the baby grows larger.

Mood Changes

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can affect your emotional state. You might find yourself feeling more emotional than usual, experiencing mood swings, or feeling anxious about the pregnancy and upcoming parenthood. These feelings are normal and are experienced by many pregnant women.

If you are experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety that interfere with your daily life, speak with your healthcare provider. Prenatal depression and anxiety are real conditions that can be treated, and seeking help is an important step in caring for yourself and your baby.

Other Common Symptoms

Other symptoms you might experience at 11 weeks include bloating and gas, mild headaches, food aversions or cravings, increased vaginal discharge (which should be clear or white and odorless), constipation, and occasional dizziness. Some women also notice skin changes, such as the beginning of a "pregnancy glow" due to increased blood circulation, or alternatively, acne breakouts due to hormonal changes.

What Changes Are Happening to Your Body at 11 Weeks?

At 11 weeks pregnant, your uterus has grown to approximately the size of a grapefruit and is beginning to rise out of the pelvis. While most women do not have a visible baby bump yet, you may notice your clothes fitting more snugly around the waist. Your blood volume has increased by 40-50%, and your heart is working harder to circulate blood throughout your body.

The changes happening inside your body at 11 weeks are remarkable, even if they are not yet visible to others. Your cardiovascular system is undergoing significant adaptations to support the growing pregnancy, and your uterus is expanding rapidly to accommodate your developing baby.

Your uterus, which was about the size of a small pear before pregnancy, has now grown to approximately the size of a grapefruit. It is beginning to rise above the pelvic bone, which is why you might feel less pressure on your bladder temporarily, though this relief is often short-lived. Your healthcare provider may be able to feel the top of your uterus (called the fundus) during an abdominal examination.

The increase in blood volume is one of the most significant changes occurring in your body. By the end of pregnancy, your blood volume will have increased by approximately 50%. This extra blood is needed to supply oxygen and nutrients to your baby through the placenta. Your heart is already pumping more blood per minute to accommodate this increased volume, which is why some women experience palpitations or feel their heart beating more strongly.

When Will You Start Showing?

Most first-time mothers do not have a visible baby bump at 11 weeks, though you might notice your waistline expanding slightly. The timing of "showing" varies considerably based on several factors, including your body type, muscle tone, whether you have been pregnant before, and whether you are carrying multiples.

Women who have been pregnant before often show earlier because their abdominal muscles have already stretched. Most first-time mothers begin showing between 12-16 weeks, while second-time or subsequent mothers might notice a bump a few weeks earlier. If you are carrying twins or multiples, you may show sooner as well.

Weight Gain

By 11 weeks, you may have gained between 1-4 pounds, though some women have not gained any weight yet, and others may have even lost weight due to morning sickness. All of these scenarios can be normal. Weight gain typically accelerates in the second and third trimesters.

Current guidelines recommend a total weight gain during pregnancy of 25-35 pounds for women starting at a healthy weight (BMI 18.5-24.9). Women who are underweight may be advised to gain more, while those who are overweight or obese may be advised to gain less. Your healthcare provider can give you personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances.

What Prenatal Tests Are Done Around 11 Weeks?

Between 11-13 weeks, several important prenatal tests may be offered, including the nuchal translucency (NT) scan, combined first-trimester screening with blood tests, and optional NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing). These tests screen for chromosomal abnormalities and certain genetic conditions. Your healthcare provider will discuss which tests are appropriate for your situation.

The period between 11-13 weeks is an important window for certain prenatal screening tests. These tests are optional but can provide valuable information about your baby's health. Understanding what tests are available and what they involve can help you make informed decisions about your prenatal care.

Nuchal Translucency Scan

The nuchal translucency (NT) scan is an ultrasound measurement performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days. During this scan, the sonographer measures the thickness of fluid at the back of your baby's neck. All babies have some fluid in this area, but increased amounts can be associated with chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13), as well as certain heart defects.

It is important to understand that the NT scan is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. An increased NT measurement does not mean your baby definitely has a chromosomal condition; rather, it indicates an increased probability that may warrant further testing. Similarly, a normal NT measurement does not guarantee that there are no chromosomal abnormalities.

Combined First-Trimester Screening

The combined first-trimester screening combines the results of the NT scan with blood tests that measure two hormones: free beta-hCG and PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A). These values, along with your age, are used to calculate your individual risk for chromosomal abnormalities.

This combined screening has a detection rate of approximately 85% for Down syndrome, with a false positive rate of about 5%. This means that about 85 out of 100 affected pregnancies will be identified, but about 5 out of 100 unaffected pregnancies will receive a higher-risk result and may be offered further testing.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

NIPT, also known as cell-free DNA screening, is a blood test that can be performed from about 10 weeks of pregnancy. This test analyzes fragments of your baby's DNA that are circulating in your bloodstream. NIPT has a higher detection rate for Down syndrome (over 99%) and lower false positive rates compared to combined first-trimester screening.

NIPT can also screen for other chromosomal conditions and, in some cases, can determine the baby's sex. While NIPT is highly accurate, it is still a screening test, not a diagnostic test. A high-risk result should be confirmed with diagnostic testing such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.

What Should You Eat at 11 Weeks Pregnant?

At 11 weeks pregnant, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy. Key nutrients include folic acid (600 mcg daily), iron (27 mg daily), calcium (1000 mg daily), and omega-3 fatty acids. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins and stay well-hydrated with at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.

Good nutrition during pregnancy is essential for your health and your baby's development. At 11 weeks, your baby's organs are forming and growing rapidly, making it particularly important to ensure you are getting adequate nutrients. Even if morning sickness is making eating challenging, try to eat small, nutritious meals throughout the day.

Your caloric needs have not increased significantly yet during the first trimester. Most women do not need additional calories until the second trimester, when an extra 300-340 calories per day is typically recommended. Rather than eating more, focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that provide maximum nutritional benefit.

Essential Nutrients for Week 11

Folic acid continues to be crucial at 11 weeks as your baby's neural tube has closed, but folate remains important for cell division and DNA synthesis. Aim for 600 micrograms daily from food sources and supplements. Good sources include leafy green vegetables, fortified cereals, legumes, and citrus fruits.

Iron needs increase significantly during pregnancy to support the expanded blood volume and your baby's growth. Aim for 27 milligrams daily. Iron-rich foods include lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources enhances absorption.

Calcium is essential for your baby's developing bones and teeth. If you do not get enough calcium from your diet, your body will take it from your bones to supply your baby's needs. Aim for 1000 milligrams daily from dairy products, fortified plant milks, calcium-set tofu, and leafy greens.

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are important for your baby's brain and eye development. Good sources include fatty fish (choose low-mercury options like salmon, sardines, and anchovies), walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. If you do not eat fish regularly, consider a DHA supplement.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods carry risks during pregnancy and should be avoided. These include raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and eggs; unpasteurized dairy products and juices; raw fish and high-mercury fish (shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish); deli meats and hot dogs unless heated until steaming; raw sprouts; and unwashed fruits and vegetables.

Limit caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day (approximately one 12-ounce cup of coffee). Avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy, as there is no known safe amount during pregnancy.

Is It Safe to Exercise at 11 Weeks Pregnant?

Yes, exercise is generally safe and beneficial at 11 weeks pregnant for women with uncomplicated pregnancies. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Safe activities include walking, swimming, stationary cycling, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise program.

Regular physical activity during pregnancy offers numerous benefits, including improved mood, better sleep, reduced risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, easier labor and delivery, and faster postpartum recovery. If you were physically active before pregnancy, you can generally continue your activities with some modifications. If you were not active before, pregnancy is a great time to start a gentle exercise program with your healthcare provider's approval.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity spread throughout the week. Moderate intensity means you are working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break a sweat, but you should still be able to carry on a conversation.

Safe Exercises During First Trimester

Walking is one of the best exercises during pregnancy. It is low-impact, requires no special equipment, and can be done anywhere. Start with a comfortable pace and duration, and gradually increase as you feel able.

Swimming and water aerobics are excellent choices because the water supports your weight and reduces stress on your joints. The cool water can also help if you are experiencing pregnancy-related overheating.

Prenatal yoga can improve flexibility, reduce stress, and help prepare your body for labor. Look for classes specifically designed for pregnant women, as they will avoid poses that are not safe during pregnancy.

Stationary cycling is safer than outdoor cycling during pregnancy as it eliminates the risk of falls. Keep the resistance moderate and avoid overheating.

Exercises to Avoid

Some activities are not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of falls, abdominal trauma, or other complications. These include contact sports, activities with a high risk of falling (skiing, horseback riding, gymnastics), hot yoga or hot Pilates, scuba diving, and any exercise that involves lying flat on your back after the first trimester.

How Can You Support Your Emotional Health at 11 Weeks?

Supporting your emotional health at 11 weeks involves acknowledging the normal range of emotions that come with pregnancy, seeking support from partners, family, and friends, managing stress through relaxation techniques, getting adequate rest, and speaking with your healthcare provider if you experience persistent anxiety or depression.

Pregnancy is an emotional journey, and it is completely normal to experience a wide range of feelings. At 11 weeks, you may be feeling excited about reaching the end of the first trimester, anxious about upcoming tests or the health of your baby, overwhelmed by the physical symptoms you are experiencing, or a mix of all these emotions and more.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can intensify emotions and contribute to mood swings. The changes happening in your life, whether planned or unexpected, also naturally bring up complex feelings. It is important to give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions arise without judgment.

Building Your Support Network

Having a strong support network can make a significant difference in how you experience pregnancy. Share your feelings with your partner, family members, or close friends who can provide emotional support. Consider joining a prenatal class or pregnancy support group where you can connect with other expectant parents who understand what you are going through.

If you are a single parent or do not have a strong support network nearby, look for online communities or local resources for pregnant women. Many hospitals and community centers offer programs for expectant mothers.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

Some level of worry during pregnancy is normal, but excessive stress can affect both your health and your baby's development. Techniques that can help manage stress include deep breathing exercises, meditation and mindfulness practices, gentle prenatal yoga, regular moderate exercise, getting enough sleep, limiting exposure to stressful news or situations when possible, and taking time for activities you enjoy.

If you are experiencing persistent anxiety, panic attacks, or symptoms of depression such as persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, or thoughts of harming yourself, please speak with your healthcare provider. Prenatal mental health conditions are common and treatable, and getting help is an important part of taking care of yourself and your baby.

How Can Partners Be Supportive at 11 Weeks?

Partners can support the pregnant person at 11 weeks by understanding and accommodating pregnancy symptoms, helping with household tasks, attending prenatal appointments together, learning about fetal development and pregnancy, providing emotional support, and discussing plans and concerns openly.

The first trimester can be particularly challenging for the pregnant person, and having an understanding, supportive partner makes a significant difference. Even if the pregnancy is not yet visible to the outside world, the physical and emotional changes happening are very real and can be overwhelming.

Partners can help by taking on more household responsibilities, especially tasks that might trigger nausea (like cooking certain foods or handling strong-smelling cleaning products), being patient with mood swings and emotional changes, encouraging rest when needed, and being flexible with plans as the pregnant person's energy levels fluctuate.

Attending prenatal appointments together, when possible, helps partners feel involved and informed about the pregnancy. This is also an opportunity to ask questions and learn about what to expect in the coming weeks. Many partners find it helpful to read pregnancy books or apps to better understand the changes happening and how they can be supportive.

Open communication is essential. Discuss your hopes, fears, and expectations about parenthood. Talk about how you want to handle announcements, work and parental leave, and other practical matters. These conversations help you feel like a team and prepare you for the journey ahead.

When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Provider?

Contact your healthcare provider at 11 weeks if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain or cramping, high fever, signs of dehydration from severe vomiting, painful urination, or if you have concerns about your pregnancy. Trust your instincts and do not hesitate to seek medical advice when something does not feel right.

While many symptoms during pregnancy are normal, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention. Knowing when to seek care can help ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.

You should also contact your healthcare provider for non-emergency concerns such as light spotting (which can be normal but should be evaluated), persistent headaches, vision changes, excessive swelling, or any symptom that is concerning to you. It is always better to check with your provider and get reassurance than to worry unnecessarily.

What Happens in the Coming Weeks?

In the coming weeks, you will enter the second trimester at week 13, when many women experience relief from first-trimester symptoms. Your energy levels may increase, morning sickness typically improves, and you may start to show a baby bump. Exciting milestones ahead include feeling your baby's first movements and finding out the sex if you choose.

As you approach the end of the first trimester, there is much to look forward to. Week 12 will likely bring your first-trimester screening results if you opted for testing. Many women choose to announce their pregnancy around this time, as the risk of miscarriage has decreased significantly.

The second trimester, often called the "honeymoon period" of pregnancy, typically brings increased energy, decreased nausea, and a general sense of well-being for many women. Your baby bump will become more visible, and you may start to feel your baby's movements, usually between 16-22 weeks.

Looking ahead, the anatomy scan (detailed ultrasound) is typically performed between 18-22 weeks and can reveal the baby's sex if you wish to know. This scan also checks your baby's organs, limbs, and growth in detail. Each week brings new developments in your baby's growth and exciting changes in your pregnancy experience.