Quick guide:

• What’s happening with the baby at 10 weeks pregnant?

• How big is your baby at 10 weeks pregnant?

• How is your belly at 10 weeks pregnant?

• Common symptoms and how to manage them?

• Frequently asked questions at 10 weeks pregnant

What’s happening with the baby at 10 weeks pregnant?

Eye development:

The key parts of the eye, including the cornea, iris, pupil, lens, and retina, are fully formed. These structures are essential for vision development, though your baby’s eyelids will stay closed until around 27 weeks of pregnancy.

Teeth formation:

Your baby’s teeth are beginning to harden and connect to the jawbone. Although you won’t see a tooth until later, this process is a crucial early step in their dental development. While some babies may be born with a tooth, most will not have their first teeth until 6 to 10 months after birth.

Brain development:

The baby’s brain is growing rapidly at this stage. The forehead temporarily bulges due to the development of the brain, which is growing quickly. The baby’s head is disproportionately large compared to the rest of the body, reflecting how much brain growth is occurring.

Movement and coordination:

Synapses are forming in your baby’s spinal cord, enabling them to move their limbs and fingers. These movements are still very tiny, but they’re an early sign of growing strength and motor development. Your baby is already practicing basic movements, although you won’t feel them yet.

Size and proportions:

Your baby is about the size of a kumquat, measuring 1.22 inches long (head to bottom) and weighing around 1.23 ounces. At this stage, the baby’s head accounts for nearly half of their overall body length, as the brain continues to develop and grow.

Facial features becoming more defined:

At 10 weeks, you can make out more distinct features on your baby’s face. The ears, nostrils, and tiny mouth are becoming more prominent. While the eyelids are still fused, the rest of the facial features are taking shape and moving closer to their final positions.

Organ development:

Your baby’s organs continue to mature. The liver, kidneys, and intestines are all functioning, although they're still developing. The baby’s heart is fully formed and beating, circulating blood through the circulatory system.

Skin and fingerprints:

While your baby’s skin is still very thin and translucent, fingerprints are starting to form. These tiny details are part of your baby’s identity, which will be unique to them.

How big is your baby at 10 weeks pregnant?

Your baby is about the size of a kumquat, measuring approximately 3.1 cm from head to bottom and weighing around 35 grams. At this stage, your baby’s head accounts for nearly half of their body length, reflecting the intense brain development taking place.

How is your belly at 10 weeks pregnant?

Your midsection might be starting to change, and you could notice a slight thickening due to bloating and weight gain. If this is your second or subsequent pregnancy, you might show earlier than first-time moms. However, it’s equally normal if your belly isn’t showing at all yet. Many women at this stage start transitioning to pants or skirts with stretchy waistbands for comfort. The average weight gain in the first trimester is 1-5 pounds, though it can vary greatly between individuals.

Common symptoms and how to manage them?

1) Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)

Morning sickness is primarily caused by rising hormone levels, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, which are essential for maintaining pregnancy. It usually peaks around the 9th to 10th week of pregnancy.

How to manage it:

• Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to keep your stomach from being empty.

• Try eating bland foods like crackers or toast, especially in the morning.

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, but avoid drinking too much at once to prevent nausea.

• Avoid strong odors or foods that trigger nausea.

• Ginger or lemon-based teas can sometimes help settle your stomach.

• If nausea becomes severe, consult your doctor for safe medications.

2) Excess saliva (ptyalism)

Increased saliva production is linked to hormonal changes, particularly high levels of estrogen. This symptom is more common during the first trimester and can be aggravated by nausea.

How to manage it:

• Drink water regularly to help wash away excess saliva.

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on hard candies to help swallow more easily.

• Carry tissues or a small container if spitting is necessary.

• Avoid acidic or spicy foods that might exacerbate the condition.

3) Fatigue

The body is working hard to support the growing baby, leading to increased energy demands. Hormonal shifts (especially progesterone) can also make you feel tired.

How to manage it:

• Take short naps during the day if possible.

• Get at least 7-9 hours of sleep at night.

• Eat nutritious meals and avoid sugary snacks, which can lead to energy crashes.

• Light exercise, like walking, can help improve energy levels.

4) Bloating and gas

Rising levels of progesterone slow down digestion and relax the muscles of the digestive tract, which can cause bloating, gas, and constipation.

How to manage it:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming your digestive system.

• Avoid carbonated drinks and foods that can produce gas, such as beans, cabbage, or fried foods.

• Drink plenty of water and engage in regular physical activity to promote digestion.

• Try a prenatal yoga class or light stretching to relieve discomfort.

5) Frequent urination

As your uterus grows, it starts to put pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom. Increased blood flow to your kidneys also contributes to more urine production.

How to manage it:

• Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to avoid pressure on your bladder.

• Stay hydrated, but try to reduce fluid intake in the evening to avoid waking up at night to urinate.

• Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen bladder control.

Frequently asked questions at 10 weeks pregnant

Can I hear my baby’s heartbeat yet?

Yes! You may hear your baby’s heartbeat using a fetal Doppler at your next prenatal visit. The sound is often described as galloping horses. Consider recording it for a special keepsake.

What is the NIPT test, and should I take it?

The NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test) is a blood test that screens for conditions like Down syndrome. It can also reveal your baby’s sex. Discuss this option with your provider and let them know if you’d rather not learn your baby’s sex.

Will I have an ultrasound at this stage?

Some doctors perform first-trimester ultrasounds between 6-10 weeks, particularly if there is a history of pregnancy complications like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Early ultrasounds are typically transvaginal for better clarity.

Is it normal to feel bloated at this stage?

Yes, bloating and a slightly rounder midsection are common due to hormonal changes and slight weight gain. Stretchy waistbands and comfortable clothing can help.

How should I manage morning sickness?

Eating smaller, more frequent meals, focusing on cold or bland foods, and avoiding strong smells can help. If symptoms worsen, consult your provider for medication options.