Quick guide:

• What’s happening with the baby at 14 weeks pregnant?

• How big is your baby at 14 weeks pregnant?

• How is your belly at 14 weeks pregnant?

• Common symptoms and how to manage them?

• Frequently asked questions at 14 weeks pregnant

What’s happening with the baby at 14 weeks pregnant?

Your baby's facial expressions at 14 weeks

At 14 weeks, your baby is starting to develop some facial features that you’ll recognize once they’re born. Their facial muscles are growing, which means they can now make small expressions like squinting, frowning, and even grimacing. These movements are a sign that their brain is becoming more active and is sending signals to the muscles in their face. While it’s still too early for you to see these expressions, they’re practicing important movements that will help them when they start feeding after birth.

Hair begins to grow

Your baby is starting to grow tiny hairs! At this stage, the hair follicles — the tiny pockets in the skin where hair grows from — are forming deep inside your baby’s skin. In about 6 weeks, you'll see the first signs of soft, fine baby hair called lanugo. It might start on their eyebrows, upper lip, and chin. This soft hair will help keep your baby warm inside the womb until they start to develop more hair after birth.

Your baby is active inside you

Even though you can't feel it yet, your baby is already moving around a lot! They’re stretching and flexing their arms and legs, moving their hands and feet, and practicing how to make tiny movements. These movements are part of your baby’s muscle development and coordination. You may not feel the little kicks and punches just yet, but soon enough, you'll start to feel them. Right now, though, they are busy practicing all these moves in the comfort of your womb.

Rapid growth and new measurements

Your baby is growing quickly and getting bigger each day! At 14 weeks, the way we measure your baby changes. Before now, the measurement was from the top of their head to the bottom (called crown to rump). But now, doctors measure from head to toe. This gives a larger number, but it doesn’t mean your baby has doubled in size overnight. It’s just the way we now measure their growth. As your baby grows, they’ll continue to get bigger and stronger, preparing for the months ahead.

How big is your baby at 14 weeks pregnant?

At 14 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a lemon. They are roughly 9 centimeters long and weigh around 40 grams. While still small, they’re growing quickly and starting to look more like a tiny human with developing features. The growth at this stage is rapid, but they still have plenty of room to grow over the next few months.

How is your belly at 14 weeks pregnant?

At 14 weeks pregnant, your belly may start to show a slight bump, especially if it's your second or later pregnancy. The uterus is growing and moving up out of your pelvic area, which means you might start to notice some changes in your shape. For first-time moms, the bump might be subtle or not visible yet. Your belly may feel firmer as the muscles and ligaments stretch to accommodate the growing baby. You might also experience some mild cramping or pressure as your body adjusts.

Common symptoms and how to manage them?

1) Increased energy

Many women notice a boost in energy during the second trimester. This is a welcome change after the fatigue of the first trimester! Take advantage of this energy by staying active, but don't overdo it. Light exercises, like walking or stretching, can help maintain your energy levels throughout the day.

2) Morning sickness (or nausea)

For some, nausea can linger into the second trimester. While it may not be as intense as it was earlier on, it can still be a nuisance. To manage nausea, try eating small, frequent meals throughout the day instead of large ones. Avoiding foods with strong smells and keeping crackers or dry toast on hand for when you first wake up can also help.

3) Growing belly and mild abdominal discomfort

As your baby grows, your uterus is expanding, which may cause some mild cramping or a stretching sensation in your abdomen. This is perfectly normal, but if you experience severe pain or spotting, it’s important to contact your doctor. To ease discomfort, try wearing loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid standing for long periods. Gentle stretching or a warm bath can help relieve the sensation as well.

4) Increased vaginal discharge

You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge as your body adjusts to pregnancy. This is usually normal and helps prevent infections. However, if the discharge has a foul odor, is green or yellow, or is accompanied by itching or burning, talk to your doctor. Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight clothing can help prevent irritation.

5) Skin changes

At 14 weeks, some women notice changes in their skin, such as darker nipples, a dark line running down the belly (linea nigra), or the “pregnancy glow.” If you experience acne or increased oiliness, try using gentle skincare products and stay hydrated to keep your skin balanced.

6) Frequent urination

Your growing uterus may be putting pressure on your bladder, causing you to need to pee more often. While this is a common symptom, it can become a bit uncomfortable. Try to drink plenty of water throughout the day, but reduce your intake before bedtime to avoid frequent trips to the bathroom at night.

7) Headaches

Some women experience headaches during pregnancy, often due to hormonal changes, dehydration, or stress. To manage headaches, make sure you’re drinking enough water, eating regular meals, and getting enough rest. If the headaches are severe or persistent, it’s best to consult your doctor.

8) Leg cramps

Leg cramps, especially at night, are common in pregnancy. To prevent them, make sure you’re stretching your legs before bed and staying active throughout the day. Some women find relief by elevating their legs during the day or using a pillow to support their legs at night.

9) Heartburn and indigestion

As your baby grows, your stomach may become compressed, which can lead to heartburn or indigestion. To manage this, try eating smaller meals more frequently, avoid spicy or greasy foods, and don't lie down right after eating. If heartburn persists, talk to your doctor about safe treatments.

Frequently asked questions at 14 weeks pregnant

When will I start feeling my baby move?

Most women start feeling their baby move between 16 and 25 weeks. At 14 weeks, your baby is active inside you, but their movements are still too tiny for you to feel. As your baby grows and their movements get stronger, you'll begin to feel those first little kicks and jabs.

Can I take maternity photos at 14 weeks?

Yes! Many women choose to take maternity photos in the second trimester, especially around 14 weeks, when the baby bump starts to show but isn't too big yet. It’s a great time for photos because you’re likely to feel better and have more energy. For the best results, consider soft natural lighting, wearing comfortable clothing that flatters your growing bump, and capturing intimate moments that show off your pregnancy glow.

How much weight should I have gained by 14 weeks?

Weight gain during pregnancy varies based on your pre-pregnancy weight and whether you're carrying one child or twins. Generally, you can expect to gain about 0.5–2.3 kilograms by the end of your first trimester. Your doctor can provide a personalized target weight gain chart to help you stay on track with healthy weight gain for the rest of your pregnancy.

Why is my baby's size measurement different this week?

At 14 weeks, baby measurements change from "crown to rump" (head to bottom) to "head to toe." This change in measurement method can make your baby appear to grow faster than the previous week, even though their rate of growth hasn’t actually doubled.