Your Pregnancy at Week 12

By week 12, you may notice skin changes, such as darker or more freckles. You may even notice a dark line, about a centimeter across, running vertically down your stomach. This line is called the Linea Nigra (Latin for "black line"). If you develop a linea nigra, here's a fun, old wives' tale associated with it: if the linea nigra runs to the navel, it's a girl; but if it goes all the way up to the bottom of your sternum, you will have a boy!

These changes in skin pigmentation are caused by pregnancy hormones, increasing the production of the pigment melanin. Individuals with darker pigmentation are more likely to develop the linea nigra line than those with fair skin. Among the parents who do develop this line, it reportedly disappears a few months after birth.

During week 12, many individuals begin to experience heartburn. If you experienced it before pregnancy, it may be even worse now. Again, you may blame your hormones. Increases in the progesterone hormone produced by the placenta cause the valves which separate the esophagus from the stomach to relax, allowing gastric acid to sneak back up the pipe and ultimately causing you that uncomfortable burning sensation. Another fun wives’ tale is that your baby will come out with hair if you have bad heartburn. Some tips to manage your heartburn include:

• Staying upright. Try to sit up for at least 30 minutes before bed. At bedtime, place a folded towel or extra pillow under your mattress to elevate your head above your stomach while you sleep.
• Sipping drinks slowly. Don't gulp, no matter how thirsty you are. Also, try to avoid drinking with meals, as this increases the volume of your stomach
• Avoiding big meals before bedtime. Try grazing through smaller meals during the day
• Keeping away from trigger foods, like carbonated beverages and greasy meals

If you still don't feel any pregnancy symptoms, you’ve officially made it through the entire first trimester and feel great. Congrats! If you are like most expectant moms, here are some things you're likely feeling.

Morning sickness, nausea, and/or vomiting: while morning sickness will generally begin to subside after the first trimester, some individuals will continue to experience nausea and/or vomiting. Take time to eat small, frequent meals, and be mindful of nutrition when possible to ensure that when you are able to keep things down that they will offer you and your growing baby the energy you need.

Skin darkening: hyperpigmentation is a common symptom during pregnancy. It can occur at any point, but generally appears gradually. While most skin changes are normal during pregnancy, always check with your healthcare provider to be sure there’s nothing to be concerned about. 

Increased vaginal discharge: increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy is called leukorrhea. This symptom can serve as a protection for your growing baby as it prevents infection from traveling up the vagina and into the womb. You can wear a panty liner if it makes you more comfortable, but do not use tampons or insert anything into your vagina during pregnancy.  

Headaches and/or dizziness: hormonal changes will continue to affect everything in your body during pregnancy. That, and increased blood flow, may  be responsible for headaches and/or dizziness that you may experience. Take time to be sure you are well-hydrated and getting enough rest. Talk to your healthcare provider if headaches and dizziness is frequent, especially if accompanied by additional symptoms such as blurred vision or heart palpitations. 

Heartburn and/or indigestion: increased levels of progesterone cause your digestive system to slow down so nutrients can be more easily absorbed, but this can result in digestive discomfort including heartburn and indigestion. Talk to your medical care provider about options for relief if you’re feeling too uncomfortable.

Spotting: At 12 weeks, spotting can be a concern or completely normal; so it's a good idea to call your midwife or doctor to determine which one it is.

You're reaching a milestone - the end of your first trimester - are you finally ready to share your news? For many parents, this milestone is what grants them the comfort of sharing their pregnancy with friends and loved ones. If you've been waiting to spread the news, you might decide to let people in on your little secret in a creative, fun, or dramatic way. For example, if you gather a group of family members and/or friends together, ask someone to take a photo of you and your partner. Right before the picture is taken, proudly announce, "I need a great shot of the three of us!" And then wait for it to sink in. Alternatively, turn the camera around. 

Practice putting your feet up! As the weeks continue, you will need to be patient with yourself. Keep an eye on your stress levels. If your ankles are swelling, or if you are feeling overwhelmed, sit in a comfy chair and elevate your feet for 30 minutes. Read a book, drink some warm tea, or listen to relaxing music. This is the time to be your own best friend. It's okay to feel nervous. Just be sure to listen to your mind and body when it needs some down time.