11 weeks pregnant: baby's development, feeling hot and your rights at work
Your baby’s development this week
If you could see your baby’s hand, you’d notice they have teeny, delicate fingernails. Their fingers and toes are starting to separate.
Your baby’s eyes are completely closed and won’t open again for a few months. The ear buds developing on the sides of your baby's head look more like ears as they grow.
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Your pregnancy symptoms in week 11
Feeling hotter than normal
Your hormones and the extra blood your body’s pumping can leave you feeling hotter than you would normally feel. Drink plenty of water and wear layers that you can remove if you’re feeling too hot.
Some women also feel colder than usual in pregnancy.
Are you suffering from swollen feet, constipation, or feeling dizzy? See our guide to 10 common pregnancy complaints and how to avoid them.
“I got chatting online and shared everything with people going through the same thing – it was such a relief to get it all out and be honest!”
Rebecca
Worrying symptoms
It’s important to tell your midwife or doctor if there is anything that you're worried about. Do not worry if you've talked about it before and don't be concerned about whether you're wasting anyone's time. This is your pregnancy and it's important to trust your own instincts.
What to do in week 11
Pregnancy and work
If you haven’t already, it may be time to start thinking about pregnancy and work. See our information about working safely during pregnancy, telling your boss, and understanding your rights at work when you’re pregnant.
Eating well
Trying to be mindful about what you eat all the time can be overwhelming. Take a look at our easy food swaps to help you and your baby get the nutrients you need.
Limit your caffeine intake
It is best to limit your caffeine intake as much as possible during pregnancy, as high levels have been linked to pregnancy complications. Find out your daily caffeine intake with our caffeine calculator.
Get fitted for a new bra
Your breasts may be getting bigger, so now might be a good time to invest in a new bra. It’s a good idea to go for support and comfort.
Skin changes
You may have also noticed that your nipples and areola becoming darker during pregnancy. This is because of hormonal changes.
This can cause your skin colour to darken a little, in patches or all over. You may also develop a dark line down the middle of your stomach.
This is called the linea nigra and is nothing to worry about.
Skin pigmentation is more common in darker skin types.
1. NHS. You and your baby at 11 weeks pregnant. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/week-by-week/1-to-12/11-weeks/ (Page last reviewed: 12 October 2021 Next review due 2024)
2. NHS. Common health problems in pregnancy. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/common-health-problems/ (Page last reviewed: 8 March 2021. Next review due: 8 March 2024) Accessed: September 2021
3. Clinical Knowledge Summaries (June 2021) Antenatal care - uncomplicated pregnancy. https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/antenatal-care-uncomplicated-pregnancy/management/antenatal-care-uncomplicated-pregnancy/
4. Patient Info (2021) Melasma. https://patient.info/doctor/melasma-chloasma-pro
Review dates
Find out what happens next
-
Week 12
It’s been a busy few weeks: Everything is now in place - the organs, limbs, bones, muscles and sex organs are complete. -
10 common health problems in pregnancy
Most people know pregnancy (morning) sickness is a common symptom in pregnancy. Here are some others that you may not be aware of. -
10 healthy snacks for added energy in pregnancy
Try to choose pregnancy snacks that give you energy and nutrients. It is best to avoid snacks that are high in fat, salt and sugar and save these for a treat. -
Is it serious? Pregnancy symptom checker
In many cases the symptoms in this section can be treated easily and will not lead to a serious pregnancy complication. But sometimes they are serious.