Pregnancy Week 14
Welcome to Week 14! You have officially entered the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy. As you settle into the second trimester, your energy is likely returning, morning sickness is (hopefully) fading, and your baby is busy practicing their very first facial expressions.
Baby Development: Your Little "Peach" is Growing Up
Baby’s Size: About 3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
Baby’s Weight: Approximately 1.5 ounces (43 grams)
Comparison: Your baby is now the size of a Peach.
Key Milestones This Week
- Facial Expressions: Thanks to developing brain impulses, your baby is squinting, frowning, and even grimacing. It’s all practice for that first smile!
- The "Lanugo" Coat: A fine, downy hair called lanugo is beginning to cover the baby’s body to keep them warm until they gain enough body fat.
- Functional Kidneys: Your baby is now swallowing amniotic fluid and passing it back out as urine. It is a vital sign of healthy development.
- Standing Taller: The neck is getting longer, and the head no longer rests directly on the chest, making the baby look more "human."
Your Body: The Second Trimester Glow
Many women refer to Week 14 as the "Turning Point." Your uterus is rising out of the pelvic cavity and into your abdomen, which might finally give you some relief from the constant urge to pee.
Physical Changes to Watch For:
- The "Bump" Emerges: Your clothes might feel snug as your "pooch" becomes a defined pregnancy bump.
- Skin Pigmentation: High hormone levels may cause Chloasma (the "mask of pregnancy") or a dark line down your belly known as the Linea Nigra.
- Increased Energy: Take advantage of this burst! It’s a great time to start a gentle prenatal exercise routine.
Common Symptoms at 14 Weeks
| Symptom | Why it happens |
|---|---|
| Round Ligament Pain | The ligaments supporting your uterus are stretching, causing sharp "stabs" when you move suddenly. |
| Increased Appetite | Now that nausea is subsiding, your body is demanding the extra calories it needs to build a human. |
| Stuffy Nose | High estrogen increases blood flow to mucous membranes, leading to "Pregnancy Rhinitis." |
Expert Tips for Week 14
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feel the baby move yet?
Most first-time moms won't feel "quickening" until weeks 18-22. However, if this is your second pregnancy, you might notice subtle "bubbles" or "flutters" this week!
Is it safe to sleep on my back?
At 14 weeks, you are likely still fine, but doctors recommend starting to practice side-sleeping to improve blood flow to the placenta.
Helpful Tools
👉 Calculate your pregnancy due date
👉 View the complete week-by-week pregnancy guide
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.