First trimester · 9 weeks pregnant
Week 9: from embryo to baby
All the essential organs have begun to form.
The embryonic period is ending. Every major organ has started to develop, and from now on the work is mostly growth and maturing. The eyes are formed but sealed shut.
Size and weight
About the size of
a grape
Length
2.3 cm
Weight
2 g
Averages from standard growth charts. Measured crown to rump until week 20 and head to heel afterwards.
How your baby is developing
- Muscles develop and the baby moves more, though far too gently to feel.
- Eyes are fully formed but the eyelids stay fused until about 26 weeks.
- Tiny earlobes appear and the mouth, nose and nostrils are more distinct.
- The placenta is developed enough to begin taking over hormone production.
How you may feel
- Nausea and tiredness
- Headaches
- A stuffy nose from increased blood flow
- Mood swings and tearfulness
- Little or no weight gain yet, or even weight loss from nausea
It is normal to feel anxious before the first scan. Talking about it with your partner or a friend often helps.
What's next
Tests and appointments
- First polyclinic visit if not done yet.
- NIPT (cell-free DNA screening) is available privately from 10 weeks in larger cities; the free national screening is the ultrasound and blood test at 11–13 weeks.
What to do this week
- Keep up moderate exercise you already do: walking, swimming, cycling on a stationary bike, prenatal yoga.
- Treat headaches with rest, fluids and paracetamol if your doctor agrees; avoid ibuprofen.
- Plan a dental check-up; pregnancy gums bleed more easily.
Call your doctor or maternity hospital if
- Bleeding that is heavier than light spotting, or bleeding with cramps
- Severe pain on one side of your lower abdomen, or pain with dizziness or fainting
- Vomiting so often that you cannot keep fluids down for 24 hours
- A temperature of 38 °C or higher, or pain when you pass urine
If something feels wrong, trust yourself and call 103 or your maternity hospital. You will never be wasting anyone's time.
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