Celebrating 3 month pregnant may be a quietly joyful occasion for some, while others may already have posted about it on social. Regardless of how you approach it, you're in the final stretch of the first trimester and a third of the way through your pregnancy.
Hopefully you're through the worst of your pregnancy symptoms, but there is a chance that new symptoms may crop up. Don't worry if that all-important bump is still not visible, this is perfectly normal - especially if this is your first pregnancy. Trust us, you'll be showing soon enough.
How many weeks pregnant is 3 months?
At 3 months pregnant, you're approximately 12 weeks and entering your second trimester.
3 months pregnant symptoms
Thicker and shinier hair
You may now begin to experience some of the nicer symptoms of pregnancy at three months like the increasing rush of hormones which can have a gorgeous effect on your locks. You may notice that your hair is thicker and glossier than it once was.
Skin breakouts
There’s a good chance you might be sporting the odd pimple or three this month as your skin starts to react to the surge of hormones that have taken over. Although you may feel the urge to wash your face more, only wash it once or twice a day to avoid your skin drying out. You might also want to opt for a cleanser and toner that is mild and nourishing rather than one that is strong and chemical. Avoid prescription medication as this can affect your baby's development, and ensure you consult with your midwife or Doctor before applying anything to your skin.
Skin changes
It is said pregnant women are more likely to tan easier, so pack on the extra UV protection when out and about. Also, as your hormones are changing so rapidly, the pigmentation in your skin is likely to change so your skin may look a bit darker or patchy in places.
Increased vaginal discharge
It's common to have more vaginal discharge than normal during pregnancy. As long as it's clear or milky-white and doesn't smell, it shouldn't be anything to worry about. Always ask your doctor or midwife if you're concerned it's unusual.
If your urine changes colour, looks green or yellow, you're itchy or it hurts when you pee, you may have a vaginal infection. Again, your doctor or midwife can consult with you on how to treat what might be going on.
Baby brain
Yes it exists! Also called pregnancy brain, it refers to the cognitive struggles and brain fog that some pregnant women say they experience during pregnancy and sometimes after birth. It can be anything from forgetting your keys to clumsiness so be prepared.
Nausea
Although morning sickness will have calmed down, you may still experience a bit of nausea but this should calm down by month four of pregnancy.
If the sickness seems to be continuing and you're beginning to feel quite dizzy or unable to keep any fluids down for 24 hours, you should contact your doctor or midwife. From ginger to Acupressure bracelets, there are many morning sicknessremedies that could be worth trying to see if they can help.
Changes in your breasts
At the three-month mark, many women's breasts start to change in size and shape. This is partly because your milk ducts are developing, ready for baby to feed from. As a result, your breasts will probably feel heavier and your nipples are likely to feel quite sensitive around this period.
As your breasts change, it may be a good idea to go bra shopping for one that fits you comfortably, and trade your underwired bra for one without.
Dizziness
You may feel faint or dizzy or lightheaded as your body isn’t producing enough blood to fill your expanding circulatory system. If this happens stay calm, and lie down or put your head between your knees and breathe deeply. Make sure you're getting enough iron during your pregnancy (you need 27 mg of iron per day) and a serious lack of it may cause fainting.
Food cravings and aversions
You could be gagging at the smell of something you'd normally eat or find yourself craving something you wouldn't normally eat - like meat if you're a vegetarian! These symptoms should subside in a month or so.
Baby's development at 3 months pregnant
Body
Your baby now has some distinctively human features and will be fully formed and around 7.4cm long, which is about the size of a peach. All their organs and muscles will be in place but still have some serious developing to do before birth. Bones will also be in place and start to harden. Their genitals are also fully developed inside and you'll soon be able to find out their gender.
Fingers and toes
Your little one's fingers and toes are forming and will now look like real baby parts. Fingernail and toenail beds are also beginning to develop.
Brain
Your baby's head, makes up about half their length will now become more proportional as the rest of their body rapidly grows and straightens.
Ears
Their tiny ears will start moving closer to either side of the head ready for them to start listening to you.
Your body at 3 months pregnant
Although a very early baby bump might appear for some around the 3-month mark, it's also perfectly normal if you don't see one yet so just appreciate those strong core muscles for now! You may also feel bloated thanks to progesterone. This pregnancy hormones slows does digestion so that nutrients from food can be passed to your baby. This may feel uncomfortable so it could be worth investing in some loose fitting maternity clothes because in a few weeks, you may no longer fit into your skinny jeans.
Your breasts may feel large and tender and you may find that your stomach is grumbling more and more with hunger pangs - a welcome relief from the morning sickness we hope!
Looking after yourself at 3 months pregnant
• Start sharing the news
There’s a good chance you’ve already let it slip to your nearest and dearest, but how will you spill the beans to everyone else? Pregnancy announcements are a big deal these days and coming up with an original idea is akin to getting a question right on University Challenge. Will you post a picture of your 12-week scan on social or is that a big fat no in your book? A not so cryptic ‘and then there were 3’ status update maybe or just a simple text? Whatever it is, make sure you're comfortable with it.
• Boost your folic acid levels
Now is the perfect time to start taking folic acid as it can help prevent defects in your baby's development. You can take it through supplements or naturally through food such as nuts and breakfast cereal high in folic acid. Look for one with at least 400 micrograms to take daily.
• Eat well
The idea that you're eating for two is a bit misleading as women don't need to increase their calorie intake drastically. While you do need to eat well and ensure you're getting enough nutrients, you're in fact only eating for one plus a little extra. And don't deny yourself some treats.
• Exercise
You can safely continue with exercise during pregnancy if you were actively doing it before. The NHS recommends exercising throughout pregnancy to help you adapt to your changing shape and pregnancy weight gain. The NHS advise that "as a general rule, you should be able to hold a conversation as you exercise. If you become breathless as you talk, then you're probably exercising too strenuously." Staying active during pregnancy will also help your body prepare for labour and recovery after birth. If you weren't exercising before, now is not the time to suddenly decide to hit the gym and start any classes, you can try gentle options like swimming, walking, pre-natal yoga or pilates.
What to do at 3 months pregnant?
• Look into your maternity rights: Now is a good time to ask your employer for information on your maternity rights including your maternity pay. Your partner should do the same thing with their employer to find out what paternity leave they are entitled to.
• Start bonding with your little one: It won't be long until your baby can hear your voice and what is happening around you so it's a great time to start getting use to talking to your baby and playing them music in preparation for them listening to you.
• Look after your mental health: Although pregnancy is a very happy experience, it can also be a very stressful time and it's important to prioritise your mental health throughout the pregnancy. If you ever find yourself feeling a little anxious, worried or sad, it's important to talk to your partner and those around you in order to start feeling more positive.
• Incorporate pelvic floor exercises into your daily routine: Start preparing your body for labour and delivery by doing pelvic floor exercises daily. They're easy to do and can easily fit into your routine when you're sitting at your work desk or even on your commute.
Scans and appointments
• You'll be offered an ultrasound between 8 and 11 weeks pregnant: this is to officially calculate your estimated due date and is known as your 12-week-scan. It can be very exciting because at this point, you've probably seen the doctor once and then the midwife to collect your pregnancy folder. This first scan really cements the reality that you're pregnant.
Conclusions
Stay active and start thinking about how you want to share the news. It's also a good time to start considering swapping your skinny jeans for some looser alternatives with an elastic waist.
FAQs 3 month pregnancy
Can you feel the baby at 3 months?
Not really - it's likely you'll feel those first flutters by around week 15-16. It varies for each person and there's no difference in the health of a baby whose movements are felt sooner rather than later.
When do you find out the gender?
You can find out your baby's gender through an ultrasound scan, usually between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy. So you'll have to wait for a few more weeks.
About the author
Maria Martin is Digital Group Editor for Yours.co.uk and Motherandbaby.com. She is a mum-of-two with a passion for helping women from all walks of life – from supporting breastfeeding mothers with expert advice to encouraging conversations about mental health.