Everything you need to know about week 9 of pregnancy

Week 9 of pregnancy – Welcome to the third month of pregnancy

In the 9th week of pregnancy (week 9), your baby is no longer an embryo but a foetus. You are now in the first week of the third month, and from now on your baby will be less vulnerable and will grow rapidly. The body size is now measured in centimetres.

Your baby is beginning to make its first movements with its arms and legs. The hands and feet are developing, and fingers and toes are already visible – even though there are still fine webs between them. Although you cannot yet feel these movements, your baby is very active in the 9th week of pregnancy. The nerves are now connected to the muscles, enabling the first reflexes. Eyes and facial features continue to form, and the internal organs such as the heart, kidneys and liver are starting to function.

As your baby develops rapidly, your body may begin to show the first changes. Symptoms such as tiredness, frequent urination or sensitivity to smells are typical. Allow yourself plenty of rest this week – your body is performing at its best.

Week 9 of pregnancy at a glance

Your baby

• Size: approx. 2 cm – about as big as a cherry, weight around 2 grams.
• Finger and toe buds visible, eyelids and tip of the nose are forming.
• Heartbeat: approx. 170 beats per minute.
• Movements of arms and legs – still unnoticed by you.
  
  

Your body

• Possibly less severe, but still present pregnancy symptoms.
• The hormone progesterone relaxes muscles – this can lead to increased urge to urinate.
• Breasts become more sensitive and increase in size.
  
  

Interesting facts about foetus and mum

• Sufficient folic acid and iron are especially important now.
• Small, regular meals help against discomfort.
• Drink plenty – even if frequent urination is bothersome.

The pram you've always wanted.

Development of the baby in the 9th week of pregnancy

At around 2 cm in size and weighing 2 grams, your baby is now officially a foetus. It is already making small movements in the amniotic sac. Nerves and muscles are working together, and the first reflexes are developing. The neck separates the large head from the body, and all essential organs are in place and beginning to function.

The face continues to develop – eyelids, nose, and mouth become more recognisable. The beginnings of fingers and toes form, and the webbing gradually disappears.

Your body in week 9 of pregnancy

The uterus is about the size of a tennis ball. Smells are perceived more intensely – sometimes even favourite scents can seem unpleasant. Mood swings are common. Breaks, plenty of fluids and gentle exercise such as yoga or walks help you to feel comfortable.

Tips for the 9th week of pregnancy

• Plan rest periods: Enough sleep and breaks help with regeneration.
• Adjust nutrition: Light, easily digestible food; avoid raw animal products.
• Gentle exercise: Swimming, yoga or walking support circulation and well-being.
  
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions about the 9th Week of Pregnancy

9th week of pregnancy: When does the nausea subside?

Usually from the 12th week, for some earlier.

Is it normal that my belly isn’t showing yet?

Yes – your baby is still very small, a visible bump often doesn’t appear until later.

What can be done against tiredness?

Sufficient sleep, short breaks and a balanced diet help.

Are frequent trips to the toilet normal?

Yes – the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder.

Which preventive check-ups are due?

Usually another ultrasound to monitor heartbeat and growth, plus blood and urine tests.

The dream buggy you always wanted.

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