3 Months Pregnant: Symptoms & Fetal Development

Hurray! You're almost about to complete your first trimester of pregnancy. Your uterus will grow to be the size of a grapefruit - your 3-month baby's weight will be around 28 gms and 2 to 3 inches in size, which is also similar to the size of a rice plum. To know more, keep reading.

3 Months Pregnant Symptoms

You might still be experiencing familiar symptoms of pregnancy in the third month from the first two months, like nausea, fatigue, etc. However, you might feel some new ones, too. Since every pregnancy is unique, not all expecting mothers report all of the symptoms.

• Vaginal discharge - You might experience a little more vaginal discharge than usual due to pregnancy hormones and the increased blood supply in your body. It will usually be clear or whitish and won't have a bad smell, so there's nothing to worry about. Use cotton underwear and wear clothes that are loose and breathable to prevent vaginal infections. In case of any concerns, talk to your doctor.

• Nausea - During this month, your morning sickness might begin to subside. Great news, right! If you still experience queasiness, eat bland foods like rice, toast, or bananas, and sip on some ginger tea to soothe your stomach.

• Fatigue - You may continue to feel sleepy as your body is nourishing your little one. Your sleep cycle may change, where you might keep waking up in the middle of the night. Rest as much as you can, drink enough water to stay hydrated, and exercise moderately to improve sleep. Practising prenatal yoga, walking, and swimming can also help. Make sure you speak to your doctor before practising any new exercises.

• Skin changes - As your body produces more melanin now, you may notice that the colour of your nipples is becoming darker. The production of additional melanin can also lead to brown patches called chloasma on your face. At 3 months pregnant, a dark, vertical line may appear, tracing the line from your belly button to the pubic area. Most of these discolourations are temporary and will fade away after your baby's birth. Stretch marks will also begin appearing on your belly and breasts as your skin stretches during pregnancy.

• Breast changes - As your breasts are preparing to produce milk, fat is being added to them, due to which they grow and change. It will soon be time to go up a size for bras that will help you feel more comfortable.

• Constipation - Feeling blocked up? Blame it on the pregnancy hormones that slow down your digestive system, leading to constipation. It can also happen due to the extra iron in your prenatal vitamins. Stay hydrated and eat more fibre - fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Mood swings - You may experience mood swings or even depression during this trimester, and it is totally okay. As your body grows in size, you may become more conscious of your appearance.

• Lack of libido - The first trimester is usually full of excitement and romance for most expecting women. However, fluctuation in hormone levels and changes in physical appearance can lead to a loss of sexual drive.

How Is My Baby Developing This Month?

You must be wondering what your baby looks like at three months pregnant. Although you would not feel any particular movements, a lot is happening inside. By now, the embryo will be settled within your uterus, and the baby's organs will begin growing. Here's a sneak peek into your baby's development:

• Head: Your baby's head will be slightly bigger than the body due to the development of his brain.

• Skin: Your baby's skin is formed and will be transparent for a while with the veins being visible through it. Also, his fingerprints are formed.

• Eyelids: The eyelids will cover your baby's eyes completely to protect them.

• Mouth: Your baby’s larynx and tongue begin to develop. Also, his jaws and upper lips are formed.

• Thumb: Your baby will begin sucking his thumb at this stage and also start getting hiccups.

• Heart: Your tiny one's heart is developing and now has a heartbeat that can be heard through electronic monitoring devices.

• Musculoskeletal system: Your baby's musculature system is taking shape with some bones starting to harden. However, the backbone is still soft.

• Limbs: Your little one's hands and feet are developing tiny fingers and toes. Those little fingers and toes also have the beginnings of nails this month.

• Movements: Remember we said a lot is happening within, but you won't feel it yet. Your growing baby will start kicking, stretching, twisting, and turning. As your uterus still lies over the pelvis, you may not feel these movements yet.

• Bone marrow: The bone marrow begins working on the production of white blood cells to keep your little one healthy.

• Intestine: Your baby's intestine will now begin contracting and relaxing to improve digestion.

• Pancreas: This organ begins functioning and secreting insulin.

• Kidneys: The kidneys work hard on the excretion of urine into the bladder.

• Lanugo: Ultra-fine soft hair develops on your baby's skin to protect him from substances in the amniotic fluid.

• Others: Your baby will develop neck during this month along with the hair follicles and genitals. Your baby will also be able to hear muffled sounds from the world outside and become sensitive to bright lights.

For twin foetuses, the growth during the third month of pregnancy will be the same as above.

Precautions & Tips to Follow at 3 Months Pregnancy

Here's what you should consider during the third month of pregnancy:

Advice for Partners

Hey dad-to-be! You can, too, now be a part of this beautiful journey besides mom by participating in the pregnancy care. Here are some tips:

Third Month of Pregnancy Quick List

• Share your baby news: At three months pregnant, you might feel ready to share the news with family and friends. Think about who you want to tell, and how.

• Make maternity leave plans: Start thinking about how to discuss maternity leave at your workplace. Research your options, and think about your preferences. Have a plan in place for when you talk about it with your employer.

• Pregnancy exercise: With a boost in your energy, and before your tummy becomes very big, your second trimester is a great time to get moving. Speak to your doctor about safe and gentle exercise options that are suitable for you.

• Bond with your bump: Your little one can hear muffled sounds such as the sound of your voice and your heartbeat, so start to bond with her by talking to and singing to your “bump,” or listening to your favorite music together.

• Communicate with your husband: Pregnancy is a role and an experience that can be shared by both parents. Speak to your husband about ways in which he can help. This will help the dad-to-be feel more involved, and will take some of the load off of you, the mom-to-be.

• Sign up for even more pregnancy tips.

Although the third month is crucial, it is equally an exciting phase. The bodily changes will make you conscious about a little one growing within you. Buckle up for the ride ahead!