Week 10 of Pregnancy: The End of the First Trimester and Initial Tests

Symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting
  They may still be present, although for many women they begin to decrease over the next few weeks.
• Extreme fatigue
  The increase in progesterone production continues to cause feelings of tiredness and sleepiness.
• Skin and hair changes
  Increased blood flow and hormones can make your skin look more radiant (“pregnancy glow”), but spots or acne may also appear.
• Increased vaginal discharge
  It is normal to have more clear or white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea), which helps prevent infections.
• Breast changes
  Your breasts may feel heavier, more sensitive, and have darker areolas as they prepare for breastfeeding.
• Greater emotional sensitivity
  Hormones can make you feel more sensitive, irritable, or have sudden mood swings.
• Gas and bloating
  Your digestion slows down, which can cause a feeling of heaviness, gas, and constipation.
• Increased urinary frequency
  The uterus continues to grow and put pressure on the bladder, making you go to the bathroom more often.

Embryo size

This week, your baby stops being an embryo and becomes a fetus, marking a milestone in their development. Their growth is rapid, and their main organs are already formed, although they will continue to mature over the coming weeks.

• Vital organs functioning
  The heart beats strongly (around 180 beats per minute) and already pumps blood throughout their tiny body. Their kidneys, intestines, liver, and brain continue developing and beginning to function.
• More defined face
  The eyes, which were previously on the sides of the head, begin to move toward the front. The ears continue to take shape, and the nose is now more visible.
• More developed limbs
  Their arms and legs are already formed and moving. The fingers and toes have lost the webbing that connected them and are now separated.
• Nervous system in action
  Neural connections advance rapidly, and your baby can already make reflex movements, such as bending the elbows and moving the hands.
• First signs of nails and hair
  A fine layer of hair called lanugo begins to develop, which will protect their skin. The first signs of nails also appear on the fingers.?

What should you do?

• Attend your prenatal checkup
  If you have not done so yet, schedule your first ultrasound to assess the baby’s development and hear their heartbeat.
• Take prenatal vitamins
  Folic acid, iron, calcium, and other nutrients remain essential to prevent birth defects and support the baby’s development.
• Maintain a healthy diet
  Eat foods rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids. Avoid ultra-processed foods, excess sugar, and caffeine.
• Stay well hydrated
  Drink enough water to prevent constipation and maintain good blood circulation.