14 weeks pregnant: Baby’s size, bump beginnings, and self-care tips

An illustration of a uterus and a fetus the size of a lemon representing 14 weeks pregnant.
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Created with Nataliia Yermolovych, MD, Obstetrician-Gynecologist

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In a nutshell

At 14 weeks pregnant, your baby’s features are becoming more detailed, and their body is lengthening. You may feel more energetic as symptoms like nausea start to ease, and some women notice a small bump beginning to show.

Welcome to 14 weeks pregnant and the start of your second trimester! This week, your baby’s growth continues rapidly as organs develop. Let’s dive into what to expect this week, from fetal development to symptoms and self-care tips.

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14-week pregnancy symptoms

The second trimester often brings changes in symptoms, with some early discomforts easing. Here’s what you may experience at 14 weeks:

  • Increased energy: Many women feel a surge of energy as nausea subsides and hormones begin to level off.
  • Appetite boost: With nausea easing, your appetite may increase, so be mindful of nourishing meals to support your energy.
  • Round ligament pain: As your uterus expands, you may feel mild aches or twinges, often felt in the lower abdomen.
  • Skin changes: Hormonal changes can lead to dry, itchy skin, so keep moisturized to stay comfortable.
  • Nasal congestion: Known as “pregnancy rhinitis,” increased blood flow can cause mild nasal congestion.

👉Find out more: Week 13 pregnancy: Fetal development, new symptoms, and bump progress

Your body at 14 weeks pregnant

At 14 weeks, your uterus is growing, and you may start to notice a small bump as it expands above the pelvic bone. As hormones level off, you might feel relief from symptoms like morning sickness and mood swings. Increased blood flow can bring more energy, along with changes in skin and hair. Hormonal shifts may also cause changes like the darkening of the skin, including the appearance of linea nigra (a dark line on your belly) and melasma (dark spots on your face). Staying hydrated, moisturized, and prioritizing nutrient-dense foods can help you feel your best during this phase.

14-week pregnant belly

A 14-week belly may start to be noticeable for some, especially if this isn’t your first pregnancy. The uterus is growing and moving upward, creating a subtle bump, but visibility varies depending on body type, muscle tone, and other factors.

Baby development at 14 weeks pregnancy

At 14 weeks, your baby’s body is lengthening, and their face is becoming more defined. Their eyes and ears are moving into position, and small details like eyebrows and hair follicles are beginning to form. Your baby can now make facial expressions and even suck their thumb. With organs in place, they’re continuing to mature, and tiny movements are happening, although it will still be a few weeks before you feel them.

14-week baby size

The 14-week fetus size is around 3.5 inches long, roughly the size of a lemon, and weighs about 1.5 ounces. This week marks a growth spurt, as the baby’s body begins to catch up in proportion to the head.

14-week ultrasound

A 14-week ultrasound can provide a clear view of your baby’s developing features. During a 14-week ultrasound 3D scan, you may notice your baby’s head, limbs, and torso more distinctly, as well as any tiny movements like stretching or turning. Although it’s still early, some providers may attempt to determine the baby’s gender around this stage.

Real 14-week fetus

A real-life 14-week fetus is growing quickly, with tiny limbs, hands, and feet becoming more visible. Facial features are more distinct, and the baby is practicing movements like thumb-sucking and facial expressions, which will be refined over the coming weeks.

14 weeks pregnant: Tests to expect

  1. Quad screen (optional)
    The quad screen, typically done between 15–22 weeks, measures four substances in the mother’s blood to assess the risk of certain genetic conditions and neural tube defects:
  • Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): High levels can indicate neural tube defects like spina bifida, while low levels may suggest chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome.
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Abnormal levels may point to conditions like Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome.
  • Estriol: Low levels may signal potential genetic disorders.
  • Inhibin-A: Elevated levels may be associated with Down syndrome.

This non-invasive test helps identify pregnancies at higher risk for conditions like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and neural tube defects. However, it does not provide a definitive diagnosis, and further tests (such as amniocentesis or ultrasound) may be recommended if results are concerning.

  1. Urine Test
    Routine urine tests at 14 weeks are essential for detecting potential complications:
  • Protein: Elevated protein may indicate urinary tract infections (UTIs) or, later in pregnancy, preeclampsia.
  • Glucose: High levels can be an early sign of gestational diabetes, especially with risk factors like a high BMI or family history.
  • Leukocytes and nitrites: These suggest a UTI, which, if untreated, can increase the risk of preterm labor.
  • Ketones: Found in cases of severe nausea or vomiting, indicating possible dehydration or malnutrition.

Regular urine screenings help monitor complications like gestational diabetes, preterm labor, and preeclampsia, ensuring early detection and better management for both mother and baby.

👉Find out more: 

15 weeks pregnant: Baby’s growth, bump progress, and what to expect

Reaching week 16: Baby’s development, your changing belly, and health tips

Health tips and self-care at 14 weeks pregnant

  • Moisturize regularly: Hormonal changes can cause dry skin, so keep your skin hydrated with gentle, pregnancy-safe moisturizers.
  • Focus on balanced nutrition: As your appetite grows, prioritize nutrient-dense foods to support energy and baby’s development.
  • Exercise lightly: Continue with gentle activities like walking or prenatal yoga to support circulation, energy, and well-being.
  • Stay hydrated: With increased blood flow and skin changes, drinking plenty of water can help prevent dryness and promote overall health.
Stay connected to your baby

Monitor your health and your baby’s growth throughout pregnancy with Femia

Try Femia now

Questions from the Femia community

  • How to deal with dry and itchy skin?

    Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer daily, stay hydrated, and avoid hot showers, as they can further dry out your skin.

  • How often should I do pelvic floor exercises?

    Pelvic floor exercises can be done daily, with most experts recommending about 5-10 minutes of Kegels each day to strengthen muscles.

  • How can I manage round ligament pain?

    Rest, gentle stretching, and avoiding sudden movements can help ease round ligament pain. Wearing a belly band may also provide support.

The bottom line

At 14 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing quickly, with features becoming more distinct as they continue to develop. You may notice increased energy and a slight bump as your body adapts to the second trimester. Focusing on balanced nutrition, hydration, and light exercise can support your health and well-being as your pregnancy progresses.

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