13 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week

Baby's Development at 13 Weeks

Fingerprints are forming on those tiny fingertips, unique to your baby forever. The intestines, which have been developing in the umbilical cord, have now moved into the abdominal cavity. The vocal cords are forming, though baby won't make a sound until after birth. The spleen is beginning to produce red blood cells. The placenta has taken over the production of hormones from the corpus luteum, which often coincides with nausea easing.

Your Body at 13 Weeks Pregnant

Second trimester energy boost is real — many people feel significantly better from week 13 onwards. Appetite often returns with enthusiasm. The uterus is growing up out of the pelvis and you may start to show a small bump. Skin changes continue: the linea nigra may be more visible, and some people notice melasma (darkening patches on the face). Leg cramps can begin, often at night.

Tips for Week 13

• Enjoy the second-trimester energy while it lasts — this is a great time to tackle the nursery, hospital bag, and birth plan.
• Start drinking 2–3 litres of water a day; leg cramps are often caused by dehydration and low magnesium.
• Consider a pregnancy pillow as your bump grows — a C-shaped or U-shaped pillow can transform sleep quality.
• This is a great time for a babymoon trip if you're planning one — you're past the nausea but not too large to travel comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions