What’s happening at 11 weeks pregnant: Baby size, development, and self-care
- Updated Dec 2, 2024
- Published
CRAFTED BY HUMAN
Crafted by human At Femia, we provide accurate and up-to-date information at every stage of your journey, from trying to conceive, pregnancy and postnatal support. All content is created by a real person based on in-depth research and own professional experience. Femia ensures that you will receive expert advice, strict accuracy and a personalized approach from our authors/medical experts. Learn more about our editorial policy.
FACT CHECKED
Fact checked At Femia Health, we maintain the highest standards of editorial excellence in delivering content focused on helping you conceive, guiding you through pregnancy, and supporting you postpartum. Explore our content review principles to learn how we ensure the accuracy and quality of our health and lifestyle tips for every stage of your journey.
Created with Nataliia Yermolovych, MD, Obstetrician-Gynecologist
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby’s skeleton is actively undergoing ossification, where cartilage tissue is gradually replaced by bone. This process began earlier, around 7–8 weeks, when mesenchyme—the precursor to cartilage and bone—first developed and formed the cartilage skeleton. By 9–11 weeks, primary ossification centers have appeared, especially in the clavicles and some skull bones, and the long bones of the limbs are now undergoing ossification as well. You may notice increased hunger, slight bump changes, and some easing of early pregnancy symptoms as you near the end of the first trimester.
Welcome to week 11 of pregnancy! You’re getting closer to the end of the first trimester, which means that some symptoms might begin to ease, but new ones, like hunger and fatigue, may continue. Let’s explore what’s happening with your baby’s growth, common symptoms, and essential self-care tips to help you thrive through this exciting week.
With Femia, you will get personalized insights every step of the way
11-week pregnancy symptoms
Hormonal changes and increased blood flow bring a range of symptoms during week 11. Here are the common experiences you might notice:
- Fatigue: Feeling tired is common due to increased energy demands. Listen to your body and rest as needed.
- Increased appetite: As your body’s metabolism adjusts, hunger may increase. Choose balanced, nutrient-rich snacks to satisfy cravings.
- Mild bloating and gas: Hormonal changes can slow digestion, causing occasional bloating and gas.
- Dizziness: Mild dizziness during pregnancy can have several causes, including lower blood pressure, increased blood flow to the uterus, or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). To manage this, stay hydrated, eat regular balanced meals to maintain stable blood sugar levels, and rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
- Breast sensitivity: Breasts may continue to feel fuller and more sensitive as they prepare for breastfeeding.
👉Find out more: Exploring week 9: What’s happening with your baby and what symptoms you might feel
Your body at 11 weeks pregnant
At week 11, your body is adjusting to the growth of the baby and the expansion of the uterus, which is now about the size of a grapefruit. Blood volume continues to increase, providing the fetus with oxygen and nutrients. While some early symptoms may start to ease, others, like fatigue and hunger, may persist as your body continues to support the baby’s development. Listening to your body and nourishing it with quality nutrition will help you manage these changes. At 11 weeks pregnant, it’s important to check your weight gain during pregnancy to ensure that you and your developing baby are on track for a healthy journey ahead.
11-week baby bump
Some women begin to notice a slight rounding of the lower abdomen at 11 weeks, especially if this isn’t their first pregnancy. The uterus is expanding, but it’s still within the pelvis, so the bump may not yet be prominent. Bloating can also contribute to a feeling of fullness.
Baby development at 11 weeks pregnancy
By 11 weeks, your baby is rapidly developing new features, including small bones, teeth buds, and more defined facial features. The liver, kidneys, and intestines are beginning to function, although not yet fully. For example, while the kidneys produce urine, it is released into the amniotic fluid rather than fully performing the role of excretion. Additionally, the head is becoming more proportionate to the body as growth progresses. Your baby’s movements are more frequent, although they’re still too tiny for you to feel. The skin remains thin and lacks a keratinized layer at this stage. Additionally, skin appendages such as hair and sebaceous glands have not yet begun developing. Meanwhile, the internal organs are gradually taking on their roles in preparation for life outside the womb.
11-week baby size
At 11 weeks, your baby is about 1.6 inches long, roughly the size of a fig, and weighs between 0.25 and 0.35 ounces. Although still tiny, they’re making big strides in development, with the early stages of bones and muscles beginning to strengthen.
11-week ultrasound
An 11-week ultrasound can reveal significant details of the fetus, including the shape of the head, limbs, and a more proportionate body. With 11-week ultrasound 3D imaging, you may see early facial features and defined limbs. The heart rate is now steady, usually beating at around 140-160 beats per minute, and some providers may be able to let you hear it for the first time.
Real-life 11-week fetus
A real-life 11-week fetus is taking on a human-like appearance with visible arms, legs, fingers, and toes. Bones are beginning to harden, and tiny nails are starting to form on the fingers and toes. The baby’s liver is now producing red blood cells, and their digestive system is continuing to develop.
11 weeks pregnant: Screening options
First-trimester screening assesses the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. It includes:
- Blood test:
- PAPP-A: Low levels may indicate chromosomal risks.
- Free Beta-hCG: Elevated levels may suggest Down syndrome; low levels could indicate Edwards syndrome.
- Nuchal Translucency (NT) ultrasound: Performed between 11–13+6 weeks, it measures the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck. Increased thickness may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal or structural abnormalities.
👉Find out more:
Entering week 12: Baby development, belly changes, and pregnancy care tips
Week 13 pregnancy: Fetal development, new symptoms, and bump progress
Health tips and self-care at 11 weeks pregnant
- Focus on “super foods”: Nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, berries, eggs, and whole grains are great options to nourish both you and your growing baby.
- Hydrate well: Staying hydrated is key to supporting increased blood volume, aiding digestion, and reducing fatigue.
- Eat smaller, frequent meals: With increased appetite, try eating balanced, smaller meals to keep energy levels steady and manage any remaining nausea.
- Wear comfortable clothing: As your abdomen expands, switching to loose or maternity clothing can help you feel more comfortable.
With Femia, you will get personalized insights every step of the way
Questions from the Femia community
When will I get a bump?
Many women begin to show a bump between 12 and 16 weeks, though it can vary depending on body type and if this is your first pregnancy. Using a pregnancy-tracking app can help you monitor your progress and pregnancy symptoms.
Can I fly at week 11?
Yes, air travel is generally safe at this stage, though it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before flying, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy.
When can I hear the baby’s heartbeat?
The baby’s heartbeat can usually be heard with a Doppler around 10-12 weeks, though some ultrasounds may detect it earlier.
How can I manage visible veins during pregnancy?
To help with vein visibility, stay hydrated, keep moving, and avoid sitting or standing for extended periods. Compression stockings can also be helpful if needed.
The bottom line
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing fast, with more defined features and increasing movement. Your body is also adjusting, and you may begin to notice the first signs of a baby bump. By focusing on nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and allowing yourself plenty of rest, you can support both your body and your baby during this dynamic stage.
References
- “11 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Baby Development & Tips.” BabyCenter, www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/11-weeks-pregnant.
- “Week 11 of Pregnancy: Symptoms, Baby Development & More.” What to Expect, www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-11.aspx.
- “11 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development, Symptoms & Tips.” NHS, www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/week-by-week/1-to-12/11-weeks/.
- “Pregnancy Week 11: What to Expect.” American Pregnancy Association, www.americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/11-weeks-pregnant/.
After having a baby, it’s normal your sex life changes, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Explore why it does and how to improve your breastfeeding sex.
At 32 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing and nearing full-term readiness. Explore symptoms, labor prep, and preemie survival rates.
Learn the difference between normal and abnormal baby head shapes, when to worry about flat head syndrome, and how to address it effectively.
