What to Expect in Each Trimester of Pregnancy – Week by Week

Pregnancy brings change, growth, and plenty of questions. Each week adds something new to your experience—and knowing what’s happening can make the journey smoother. This guide walks you through pregnancy, week by week, so you’re informed and prepared at every step.

First Trimester: Week 1 to 12

This is the foundation phase. Hormones rise, symptoms kick in, and your baby begins forming all vital systems.

Weeks 1-2: Technically not pregnant yet. Doctors start the clock from the first day of your last period.

Week 3: Fertilization occurs. A sperm meets the egg, and a tiny zygote forms.

Week 4: The embryo implants in the uterus. You might notice a missed period.

Week 5: HCG levels rise. Early symptoms like fatigue and sore breasts begin.

Week 6: Baby’s heart starts beating. Nausea and food aversions are common now.

Week 7: Mood swings and bloating may appear. The embryo is growing fast.

Week 8: Arms and legs begin forming. Nausea may peak.

Week 9: You may notice skin breakouts or heightened sense of smell.

Week 10: Baby officially becomes a fetus. Major organs are taking shape.

Week 11: Baby’s fingers and toes develop. You might feel a little more energetic.

Week 12: First trimester is wrapping up. Time for your first major scan if not done already.

Second Trimester: Week 13 to 27

Energy returns, baby bump shows, and many women start to feel more like themselves.

Week 13: Hormones start to level out. Early symptoms begin to ease.

Week 14: Skin changes like dark patches or a linea nigra can appear.

Week 15: Baby’s hearing begins to develop.

Week 16: Some women find out the baby's gender via ultrasound.

Week 17: Weight gain becomes more noticeable. Light backaches may start.

Week 18: You may feel baby’s first movements (quickening).

Week 19: Baby's skin is protected by a waxy coating called vernix.

Week 20: Halfway there. Anatomy scan checks baby’s development.

Week 21: Baby can taste the food you eat through the amniotic fluid.

Week 22: Stretch marks might begin to show. Hydration and skin care matter now more than ever.

Week 23: Practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) may start.

Week 24: Time for a glucose screening test for gestational diabetes.

Week 25: You may notice stronger kicks and shifting positions.

Week 26: Sleep may become harder as the bump grows.

Week 27: Baby starts blinking and may recognize your voice.

Third Trimester: Week 28 to 40+

The finish line is in sight. Your baby is gaining weight and strength while your body prepares for labor.

Week 28: Start tracking baby movements. You may feel more tired again.

Week 29: Backaches, heartburn, and leg cramps can become regular.

Week 30: Baby’s brain grows fast. You might feel clumsy due to your shifting center of gravity.

Week 31: Frequent urination and trouble sleeping are common.

Week 32: Baby settles into a head-down position.

Week 33: You may feel heavier and need more rest. Contractions may become more noticeable.

Week 34: Baby continues putting on fat. Hospital prep might begin.

Week 35: Time to finalize your birth plan and pack your hospital bag.

Week 36: Baby is almost fully developed. You may feel pelvic pressure.

Week 37: Full-term. Baby can arrive safely any time now.

Week 38: Nesting instincts may kick in. You may feel frequent, light contractions.

Week 39: Baby’s lungs and brain finish maturing.

Week 40: Official due date. Only a small number of babies arrive exactly on this day.

Week 41+: If baby hasn’t arrived, your doctor might discuss inducing labor.

Take Care of You, Too

Pregnancy isn’t just about what’s happening inside—it’s also about how you feel in your skin. As your belly grows, your skin stretches fast. This is where gentle, nourishing care becomes essential.

Support Your Skin Naturally

Our stretch mark removal cream is made with Ayurvedic herbs that help moisturize and soothe your growing belly. Rich in ingredients like coconut oil, manjistha, and kumkumadi, it supports skin elasticity and can reduce the appearance of stretch marks before and after birth.

Apply it daily from the second trimester to help your skin stay smooth, hydrated, and cared for—because how you feel matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start using a stretch mark cream?
You can begin as early as Week 13, when your bump starts to show. Consistency matters, so apply daily to areas like the belly, hips, and thighs.

Are symptoms the same for every woman?
No. Every pregnancy is different. Some may feel sick all trimester, others may breeze through it. Use this guide as a reference, not a rulebook.

When will I start feeling the baby move?
Most first-time moms feel movements around Week 18 to 22. If you’ve been pregnant before, it may happen earlier.

Is it safe to use Ayurvedic products during pregnancy?
Yes—if they are made with safe, pregnancy-friendly herbs and oils. All Pokonut products are formulated with care, keeping expecting mothers in mind.

What should I do if I feel something unusual?
Always trust your instincts. If anything feels off—pain, bleeding, or sudden swelling—contact your doctor right away.