Pregnancy Symptoms by Week
A comprehensive timeline of pregnancy symptoms from week 1 through week 40. Track what symptoms to expect during each stage of your pregnancy journey.
Remember: Every pregnancy is unique. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms. If you have concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.
🌱 First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)
The first trimester is marked by rapid hormonal changes and early pregnancy symptoms. Morning sickness, fatigue, and breast tenderness are common during this period.
Week 1
Baby size: Poppy seed
Common Symptoms:
- •You may not know you're pregnant yet as conception hasn't occurred
- •Your last menstrual period marks the start of pregnancy calculations for medical dating purposes
- •Some women experience mild cramping and spotting during menstruation
- •Energy levels are typically normal during this pre-conception phase
- •No pregnancy-specific symptoms are present at this stage
Week 2
Baby size: Poppy seed
Common Symptoms:
- •No pregnancy symptoms yet as conception has just occurred or is about to occur
- •You may notice ovulation symptoms like increased clear, stretchy cervical mucus (egg white consistency)
- •Some women experience mild pelvic pain or twinges (mittelschmerz) during ovulation
- •Slight increase in basal body temperature after ovulation occurs
- •Heightened sense of smell and increased libido are common during the fertile window
Week 3
Baby size: Sesame seed
Common Symptoms:
- •Possible light spotting or pinkish discharge from implantation bleeding (occurs in about 25% of pregnancies)
- •Mild cramping or twinges in your lower abdomen as the embryo implants
- •Early pregnancy may not be detectable yet on home pregnancy tests
- •Some women report feeling unusually tired or fatigued
- •Breast tenderness may begin as hormones start changing
- •You might experience mood swings due to rapidly increasing hormone levels
Week 4
Baby size: Poppy seed
Common Symptoms:
- •Missed period is typically the first noticeable sign of pregnancy
- •Light spotting or implantation bleeding may still occur in some women
- •Mild cramping similar to period cramps as your uterus begins expanding
- •Breast tenderness and swelling as your body produces more estrogen and progesterone
- •Fatigue and exhaustion are common as your body works hard to support the pregnancy
- •Bloating and feeling "off" as pregnancy hormones affect your digestive system
- •Frequent urination as blood flow to your pelvic area increases
Week 5
Baby size: Sesame seed
Common Symptoms:
- •Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting) may begin, though it can occur at any time of day
- •Increased urination frequency as pregnancy hormones increase blood flow to your pelvic region
- •Extreme fatigue and exhaustion as your body works overtime to support the pregnancy
- •Breast tenderness, swelling, and tingling as milk ducts begin developing
- •Strong food aversions (especially to meat, fish, or strong-smelling foods) or sudden cravings
- •Heightened sense of smell that can trigger nausea
- •Mood swings and emotional sensitivity due to rapidly fluctuating hormones
Week 6
Baby size: Lentil
Common Symptoms:
- •Morning sickness intensifies for most women, with nausea peaking around weeks 6-12
- •Frequent urination continues as your uterus grows and presses on your bladder
- •Mood swings become more pronounced as progesterone and estrogen surge
- •Bloating and gas increase due to slowed digestion from progesterone
- •Heightened sense of smell that can trigger nausea and food aversions
- •Excessive saliva production (ptyalism) in some women
- •Possible light-headedness or dizziness from changing blood pressure
Week 7
Baby size: Blueberry
Common Symptoms:
- •Morning sickness often peaks during weeks 7-12, with increased nausea and possible vomiting
- •Frequent urination continues and may intensify as blood volume increases
- •Excess saliva (ptyalism) production that can worsen nausea
- •Constipation becomes more common as progesterone slows digestive motility
- •Emotional changes including mood swings, irritability, and weepiness
- •Increased vaginal discharge as cervical mucus production increases
- •Possible food cravings or strong aversions to foods you normally enjoy
Week 8
Baby size: Kidney bean
Common Symptoms:
- •Heightened sense of smell that can trigger instant nausea
- •Strong food aversions to previously enjoyed foods, especially meat and fish
- •Noticeable breast enlargement as milk ducts expand and prepare for breastfeeding
- •Occasional mild cramping as your uterus continues expanding
- •Increased clear or white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) due to increased estrogen
- •Possible weight loss if morning sickness is severe
- •Visible veins on your breasts and abdomen due to increased blood flow
Week 9
Baby size: Grape
Common Symptoms:
- •Nausea and morning sickness often peak during week 9, affecting up to 80% of pregnant women
- •Severe fatigue continues as your body produces more blood and supports fetal development
- •Breast tenderness and fullness increase as breast tissue prepares for milk production
- •Frequent urination persists due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume
- •Mood swings can be intense due to fluctuating hormones and physical discomfort
- •Possible headaches from hormonal changes and increased blood circulation
- •Visible weight changes - either slight weight loss from nausea or small weight gain
Week 10
Baby size: Kumquat
Common Symptoms:
- •Visible blue veins on your chest, breasts, and abdomen due to 40-50% increase in blood volume
- •Thicker, fuller hair as pregnancy hormones slow down normal hair shedding
- •Round ligament pain - sharp pains in lower abdomen as ligaments stretch to support growing uterus
- •Heartburn or acid reflux may begin as progesterone relaxes the valve between stomach and esophagus
- •Increased vaginal discharge continues as estrogen levels rise
- •Possible emotional ups and downs as first trimester nausea starts improving
- •Occasional dizzy spells from blood pressure changes
Week 11
Baby size: Fig
Common Symptoms:
- •Nausea typically starts to ease as you approach the end of the first trimester
- •Increased energy levels in many women as the exhaustion of early pregnancy lifts
- •Skin changes may appear including darkening of nipples, linea nigra (dark line on belly), or melasma (pregnancy mask)
- •Increased appetite as morning sickness subsides
- •Continued breast growth and tenderness
- •Occasional headaches from hormonal changes
- •Possible breakouts or acne due to hormone fluctuations
Week 12
Baby size: Lime
Common Symptoms:
- •Reduced nausea and morning sickness for most women (about 70% see improvement)
- •Increased energy levels returning as you approach the second trimester
- •Visible baby bump may appear, especially if this isn't your first pregnancy
- •Darkening of nipples and areolas due to increased pigmentation
- •Less frequent urination as uterus rises out of pelvis
- •Possible spotting after sex or pelvic exams due to increased blood flow to cervix
- •Emotional changes as you process that pregnancy is becoming more "real"
Week 13
Baby size: Peapod
Common Symptoms:
- •Energy levels increase significantly as you enter the second trimester
- •Morning sickness usually subsides or disappears completely for most women
- •Baby bump becomes more visible and noticeable to others
- •Round ligament pain may increase as ligaments stretch rapidly
- •Sex drive may return as energy improves and nausea fades
- •Continued breast growth and possible leaking of colostrum
- •Improved emotional well-being as first trimester challenges ease
🛍️ Relief Picks for First-Trimester Nausea & Fatigue
Comfort and preparation products other expecting parents find helpful at this stage. These are convenience picks, not medical advice — always follow your provider's guidance.
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Prenatal Vitamins (with Folate & DHA)
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Daily folate, iron and DHA support that doctors recommend before and throughout pregnancy.
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Ginger Chews & Anti-Nausea Drops
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A gentle, drug-free favorite many moms keep on hand for queasy mornings.
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Sea-Bands Acupressure Wristbands
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Reusable wrist bands many expecting moms use for everyday queasiness and travel.
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What to Expect When You're Expecting
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The classic week-by-week guide trusted by millions of expecting parents.
Check Price on Amazon →Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. These recommendations are editorially chosen comfort and preparation products and are not medical advice.
🌸 Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27)
Often called the "golden trimester," symptoms typically improve. You'll start feeling baby movements and experience a visible baby bump. Energy levels usually increase during this period.
Week 14
Baby size: Lemon
Common Symptoms:
- •Increased energy levels - welcome to the "honeymoon trimester"!
- •Significantly less nausea or complete relief from morning sickness
- •Noticeably growing belly that's starting to "pop"
- •Possible nasal congestion and nosebleeds from increased blood flow (rhinitis of pregnancy)
- •Increased appetite as nausea subsides
- •Glowing skin from increased blood flow and oil production
- •Possible constipation as progesterone continues slowing digestion
Week 15
Baby size: Apple
Common Symptoms:
- •Significant second trimester energy boost - many women feel their best now
- •Possible nosebleeds due to increased blood volume and expanded blood vessels
- •Swollen, tender gums (pregnancy gingivitis) that may bleed when brushing
- •Baby bump is clearly showing and growing rapidly
- •Skin may have a healthy "pregnancy glow" from increased blood flow
- •Possible stuffy nose and congestion
- •Weight gain becomes more noticeable (1/2 to 1 pound per week is normal)
Week 16
Baby size: Avocado
Common Symptoms:
- •You may feel first flutters or "quickening" - the first fetal movements (more common in second pregnancies)
- •Backaches may begin as your center of gravity shifts forward
- •Increased clear or white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea)
- •Dry, itchy eyes from hormonal changes
- •Growing belly and possible "popped" appearance
- •Possible round ligament pain with sudden movements
- •Increased appetite and cravings
Week 17
Baby size: Turnip
Common Symptoms:
- •Increased appetite as your body needs more calories for baby's rapid growth
- •Baby movements become more noticeable and frequent throughout the day
- •Possible heartburn and acid reflux as uterus pushes on stomach
- •Vivid, strange dreams due to hormonal changes and pregnancy anxieties
- •Increased sweating due to hormonal changes
- •Possible nasal congestion and stuffiness
- •Growing belly that may affect your balance
Week 18
Baby size: Bell pepper
Common Symptoms:
- •Increased energy levels continue through second trimester
- •Occasional dizziness from blood pressure changes when standing quickly
- •Possible leg cramps, especially at night
- •Rapidly growing belly that's noticeably larger
- •Backaches from shifting center of gravity and loosening ligaments
- •Stronger, more frequent fetal movements
- •Possible abdominal achiness as uterus stretches
Week 19
Baby size: Mango
Common Symptoms:
- •Sharp round ligament pain with sudden movements, laughing, or coughing
- •Occasional dizziness, especially when standing up quickly (orthostatic hypotension)
- •Abdominal pain and achiness as uterus expands rapidly
- •Lower back pain and sciatica as baby puts pressure on sciatic nerve
- •Baby movements feel stronger and more like pokes and jabs
- •Increased appetite and specific food cravings
- •Possible skin changes like darkening linea nigra or melasma
Week 20
Baby size: Banana
Common Symptoms:
- •Halfway through pregnancy - a major milestone to celebrate!
- •Visible baby movements that may be seen moving across your belly
- •Increased white or clear vaginal discharge (leukorrhea)
- •Possible varicose veins in legs due to increased blood volume and pressure
- •Shortness of breath as uterus pushes up on diaphragm
- •Increased sweating and body temperature
- •Possible swelling in feet and ankles
Week 21
Baby size: Carrot
Common Symptoms:
- •Significantly increased appetite as baby grows rapidly
- •Possible varicose veins in legs from increased blood volume and uterine pressure
- •Stretch marks may appear on belly, breasts, hips, or thighs as skin stretches
- •Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions) may start - they feel like tightening
- •Increased vaginal discharge
- •Possible leg cramps at night
- •Continued backaches and pelvic pressure
Week 22
Baby size: Papaya
Common Symptoms:
- •Increased libido for many women as energy improves and discomfort is minimal
- •Possible leg cramps, especially at night, from calcium-magnesium imbalance
- •Constipation continues as progesterone slows digestion
- •Increased clear or white vaginal discharge
- •Skin changes including darkening linea nigra, melasma, or skin tags
- •Possible swelling in hands and feet
- •Heightened emotional connection to baby as movements become stronger
Week 23
Baby size: Grapefruit
Common Symptoms:
- •Swelling (edema) in feet, ankles, and hands from fluid retention
- •Linea nigra - dark vertical line from belly button to pubic bone - may appear or darken
- •More frequent Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
- •Increased forgetfulness and "pregnancy brain" from hormonal changes
- •Possible backaches and sciatica from baby's position
- •Feeling warmer than usual due to increased metabolism
- •Possible bleeding gums when brushing
Week 24
Baby size: Cantaloupe
Common Symptoms:
- •Glucose screening test (1-hour glucose challenge) typically done this week
- •Rapidly growing belly that may cause balance issues
- •Possible carpal tunnel syndrome from fluid retention compressing nerves
- •Significantly increased appetite requiring 300-500 extra calories daily
- •Possible vision changes from fluid retention affecting eye shape
- •More frequent and noticeable baby movements
- •Possible stretch marks appearing or intensifying
Week 25
Baby size: Cauliflower
Common Symptoms:
- •Possible hemorrhoids from increased blood flow and pressure on rectal veins
- •Trouble sleeping due to difficulty finding comfortable positions
- •Restless leg syndrome - uncomfortable sensations in legs with urge to move them
- •Increased appetite continuing
- •Possible heartburn and indigestion
- •Frequent urination as baby grows
- •Increased discharge and possible minor leaking of colostrum
Week 26
Baby size: Lettuce
Common Symptoms:
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more frequent (belly tightening without pain)
- •Possible pelvic pain and pressure as baby grows heavier
- •Shortness of breath as uterus pushes up on diaphragm
- •Rapidly growing belly
- •Possible rib pain as baby kicks upward
- •Increased urination frequency
- •Possible swelling and water retention
Week 27
Baby size: Cauliflower
Common Symptoms:
- •Preparing physically and mentally for third trimester
- •Possible sciatic nerve pain shooting down legs from baby's position
- •Increased Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Possible swelling in hands, feet, and face
- •Trouble sleeping and frequent nighttime urination
- •Possible anxiety about upcoming labor and delivery
- •Growing belly causing balance and coordination changes
🛍️ Comfort Picks for Second-Trimester Aches & Skin Changes
Comfort and preparation products other expecting parents find helpful at this stage. These are convenience picks, not medical advice — always follow your provider's guidance.
🧴
Belly Butter / Stretch-Mark Cream
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Rich cocoa-butter moisturizer to keep a growing belly comfortable and hydrated.
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Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow
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U-shaped support for side-sleeping that helps take pressure off hips and back.
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Maternity Leggings & Tops
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Stretchy over-the-bump basics that grow with you for everyday comfort.
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Motivational Water Bottle
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Staying hydrated eases many pregnancy aches; a time-marked bottle makes it easy.
Check Price on Amazon →Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. These recommendations are editorially chosen comfort and preparation products and are not medical advice.
🌺 Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)
The home stretch! Symptoms intensify as baby grows larger. You may experience discomfort, frequent urination, and Braxton Hicks contractions as your body prepares for labor.
Week 28
Baby size: Eggplant
Common Symptoms:
- •Shortness of breath as uterus pushes up on diaphragm
- •Trouble sleeping due to size, discomfort, and frequent bathroom trips
- •Possible sciatic pain shooting down legs and buttocks
- •Frequent urination returns as baby drops lower into pelvis
- •More frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands
- •Possible back pain and pelvic pressure
Week 29
Baby size: Butternut squash
Common Symptoms:
- •Severe heartburn and acid reflux as stomach is compressed
- •Hemorrhoids from increased pressure and constipation
- •Varicose veins in legs from blood volume and pressure
- •Fatigue returns as carrying extra weight becomes exhausting
- •Significant pelvic pressure and heaviness
- •Trouble sleeping and finding comfortable positions
- •Possible carpal tunnel symptoms in hands and wrists
Week 30
Baby size: Cabbage
Common Symptoms:
- •Noticeable swelling (edema) in hands, feet, ankles, and possibly face
- •Intensifying backaches from carrying extra weight and shifted center of gravity
- •Leaking colostrum (early breast milk) from nipples
- •Mood swings and emotional changes as you approach motherhood
- •Strong nesting instinct urging you to clean and organize
- •Increased Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath
Week 31
Baby size: Coconut
Common Symptoms:
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more frequent and intense
- •Pelvic pain and pressure (SPD - symphysis pubis dysfunction) from loosening joints
- •Increased clear or white vaginal discharge
- •Continued shortness of breath
- •Possible numbness or tingling in hands and fingers
- •Difficulty sleeping more than a few hours at a time
- •Frequent urination, especially at night
Week 32
Baby size: Jicama
Common Symptoms:
- •Frequent urination as baby presses heavily on bladder
- •Increased breast leakage of colostrum (pre-milk)
- •Possible carpal tunnel syndrome from fluid retention
- •Vivid, intense dreams related to pregnancy and parenting
- •Significant fatigue from carrying extra weight
- •Possible pubic bone pain (SPD)
- •Shortness of breath continues
Week 33
Baby size: Pineapple
Common Symptoms:
- •More frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Noticeable forgetfulness and "pregnancy brain" from hormonal changes
- •Clumsiness and loss of balance from shifted center of gravity
- •Significant trouble sleeping and insomnia
- •Possible heartburn and indigestion
- •Swelling in extremities may worsen
- •Increased pelvic pressure and discomfort
Week 34
Baby size: Cantaloupe
Common Symptoms:
- •Possible vision changes from fluid retention affecting cornea shape
- •Increased fatigue as pregnancy becomes more physically demanding
- •Intense pelvic pressure as baby descends
- •Possible worsening constipation
- •Braxton Hicks may be uncomfortable
- •Trouble finding any comfortable position
- •Possible leaking of urine when laughing, sneezing, or coughing
Week 35
Baby size: Honeydew melon
Common Symptoms:
- •Very frequent urination as baby presses on bladder constantly
- •Intense pelvic pressure and possible lightning (baby dropping)
- •Possible significant swelling in feet, ankles, hands, and face
- •Severe shortness of breath as uterus reaches maximum height
- •Trouble sleeping and extreme discomfort
- •Possible anxiety about impending labor
- •Strong nesting urges to prepare for baby
Week 36
Baby size: Romaine lettuce
Common Symptoms:
- •Significantly increased Braxton Hicks contractions that may take your breath away
- •Pelvic pressure intensifies as baby descends into birth position
- •Possible "lightning" - sudden dropping of baby into pelvis
- •Even more frequent bathroom trips, possibly every hour
- •Difficulty walking and waddling gait
- •Possible loss of mucus plug (can regenerate)
- •Extreme fatigue and exhaustion
Week 37
Baby size: Swiss chard
Common Symptoms:
- •Mix of excitement and nervousness about meeting baby
- •Very strong nesting instinct with urges to clean and organize
- •Possible loss of mucus plug (bloody show)
- •Increased vaginal discharge
- •More frequent and intense Braxton Hicks
- •Extreme physical discomfort
- •Difficulty sleeping
Week 38
Baby size: Leek
Common Symptoms:
- •Cervix may be dilating and effacing (thinning) in preparation
- •Possible bloody show (mucus plug discharge with blood)
- •Contractions may increase in frequency and intensity
- •Water may break at any time (happens before labor in about 10% of women)
- •Extreme discomfort and difficulty moving
- •Possible diarrhea as body prepares for labor
- •Increased pelvic pressure
Week 39
Baby size: Mini watermelon
Common Symptoms:
- •Lightning crotch pains - sharp shooting pains in pelvis and vagina
- •Increased contractions that may be irregular or regular
- •Possible water breaking (spontaneous rupture of membranes)
- •Intense anticipation, anxiety, and impatience
- •Extreme physical discomfort
- •Possible burst of energy (nesting)
- •Difficulty sleeping
Week 40
Baby size: Small pumpkin
Common Symptoms:
- •Emotionally and physically ready to meet your baby
- •Possible increased contractions that may start and stop
- •Feeling anxious, impatient, or frustrated if not in labor yet
- •Labor could start at any time - today, tomorrow, or in 2 weeks
- •Extreme discomfort and difficulty with daily activities
- •Possible signs of labor beginning
- •Mix of excitement and nervousness
🛍️ Comfort & Hospital-Bag Picks for the Third Trimester
Comfort and preparation products other expecting parents find helpful at this stage. These are convenience picks, not medical advice — always follow your provider's guidance.
🛏️
Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow
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U-shaped support for side-sleeping that helps take pressure off hips and back.
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Hospital Bag Robe & Slippers
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Cozy robe, socks and slippers to make your hospital stay feel more like home.
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Nursing & Maternity Bras
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Soft, stretchy wireless bras sized for changing curves and easy feeding later.
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Newborn Diapers & Wipes
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Stock the essentials early so you are not running out in those first busy weeks.
Check Price on Amazon →Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. These recommendations are editorially chosen comfort and preparation products and are not medical advice.