9 weeks pregnant

Baby's Growth and Development at 9 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 9 weeks pregnant, your baby's body parts and proportions continue to develop and change quickly:

• During the 9th week of your pregnancy, your baby grows to about one inch, or about the length of an olive.
• By your 9th week of pregnancy, your baby's skeleton begins to harden. Hardening of the bones (ossification) begins with the formation of cartilage.
• Her fingers, toes, knees, and elbows develop.
• Nipples and hair follicles form.
• Her intestinal system — pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder, and anus — forms. Her intestines elongate.
• Your baby's reproductive organs begin to develop internally when you're 9 weeks pregnant.
• Muscles develop and your baby may start to move — you may feel her movements in several more weeks.

Your Changing Body at 9 Weeks Pregnant

Welcome to the last month of your 1st trimester. At 9 weeks pregnant, your body continues to change to protect and nourish your developing baby. That means that pregnancy symptoms still might be in full force. Take a look at some of the changes happening during your 9th week of pregnancy:

• Hormone production increases around the 9th week of pregnancy, but a shift occurs by the 12th week of pregnancy, signaling the relief of many 1st-trimester pregnancy symptoms. Until then, continue to seek relief from symptoms that bother you.
• Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, breast soreness, increased urination, insomnia, and vivid dreaming.
• Your heart pumps harder and faster, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and headaches.
• Increased estrogen and progesterone stimulate the growth of your breasts and milk glands. The skin around your nipples may enlarge and darken. Breast soreness and fullness is normal. Consider shopping for a supportive and comfortable bra to accommodate your changing breasts.
• Your body shape begins to change, which also can cause you to change how you feel about your body. Remember that body changes and healthy weight gain are important but temporary aspects of pregnancy. Take the steps you need to maintain a positive body image by exercising and eating well. Wear comfortable clothes that make you feel and look good. Don't worry if you are not showing just yet — it might take a few more weeks.