Your Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide (Weeks 1–42)

Pregnancy is a journey like no other. From the very first signs to feeling those first kicks, from hormonal changes to the final countdown before birth—each week brings something new.

This week-by-week pregnancy guide walks you through every stage of pregnancy, covering:

✔ How your baby is developing each week.

✔ Symptoms & changes happening in your body.

✔ What to expect at each stage, from early pregnancy to labour.

✔ Tips for self-care, nutrition, and emotional well-being.

Whether you're newly pregnant or counting down the final days, this guide is your ultimate resource to track your pregnancy and feel prepared for what’s next.

Every pregnancy is different, this is a guide for educational purposes only - always consult with your health care professional.

First Trimester (Weeks 1–13): Early Pregnancy Changes

Weeks 1–4: Conception & Early Pregnancy Symptoms

• Your pregnancy officially starts on the first day of your last period.

• Around week 2, ovulation happens, and fertilization occurs.

• By week 3, the fertilized egg implants into your uterus.

• In week 4, many mums start noticing early pregnancy symptoms like nausea, sore breasts, and fatigue.

  
  

💡 What to do now:

• Take a home pregnancy test (if you’ve missed your period).

• Start taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid.

• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and any pregnancy-risk foods.

  
  

Weeks 5–8: Hormonal Shifts & Morning Sickness

• Your baby is now the size of a grain of rice and growing rapidly.

• Morning sickness, heightened sense of smell, and food aversions kick in for many mums.

• Your baby's heartbeat begins beating around week 6.

• The placenta starts forming, supplying nutrients to your baby.

  
  

💡 How to manage nausea & fatigue:

• Eat small, frequent meals to prevent nausea.

• Stay hydrated with ginger tea, lemon water, or electrolyte drinks.

• Rest when needed—your body is working hard.

  
  

Weeks 9–13: Baby’s First Movements & First Scan

• Your baby has fingers, toes, and a tiny face developing.

• Around week 12, the first ultrasound scan happens, confirming your due date.

• By week 13, your risk of miscarriage drops significantly.

  
  

💡 What to do now:

• Book your first antenatal appointment.

• Start planning your pregnancy announcement (if you want to share the news).

• Listen to your body—early pregnancy is exhausting.

  
  

Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27): The Glow Phase

Weeks 14–17: Baby Bump Begins to Show

• Your energy levels start returning as morning sickness fades.

• You may feel the first fluttery baby movements by week 16.

• Your baby can hear your voice—time to start talking or playing music.

  
  

💡 Self-care tips:

• Stay active with gentle walks, yoga, or swimming.

• Start moisturizing your belly to prevent stretch marks if you wish.

• Get supportive maternity clothes for growing comfort.

  
  

Weeks 18–22: The 20-Week Anatomy Scan

• Your baby's nervous system is developing rapidly.

• You’ll likely have a 20-week anatomy scan to check baby’s growth.

• Many mums start feeling proper kicks and movements around week 20.

  
  

💡 What to prepare for:

• Consider finding out your baby’s gender (if you want to).

• Start planning nursery and baby essentials.

• Eat iron-rich foods to keep your energy up.

  
  

Weeks 23–27: Third Trimester Prep Begins

• Your baby can now open their eyes and respond to sounds.

• Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions) may start.

• Your belly is noticeably bigger, and back pain may begin.

  
  

💡 How to prepare:

• Book antenatal classes for birth preparation.

• Start thinking about your birth plan and hospital preferences.

• Listen to your body—rest as much as possible.

  
  

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–42): The Final Countdown

Weeks 28–32: Baby’s Rapid Growth & Nesting Mode

• Your baby is now packing on fat and practicing breathing.

• Heartburn, swollen feet, and sleep struggles may start.

• Many mums enter "nesting mode"—preparing the home for baby’s arrival.

  
  

💡 What to do now:

• Pack your hospital bag (just in case).

• Rest whenever possible—your body is working hard.

• Keep meals light and avoid spicy foods to manage heartburn.

  
  

Weeks 33–37: Baby Drops & Labour Signs Begin

• Baby moves into a head-down position in preparation for birth.

• You may experience lightning crotch, pelvic pressure, and stronger Braxton Hicks contractions.

• Mucus plug loss, nesting, or diarrhea can be early signs of labour approaching.

  
  

💡 Final preparations:

• Wash and organize baby clothes, nappies, and essentials.

• Discuss birth plans and potential pain relief options with your midwife.

• Sleep when you can—the final stretch can be tiring.

Weeks 38–42: The Final Countdown to Birth

• By week 40, your baby is officially full-term.

• Labour can start anytime now—watch for contractions, water breaking, or a bloody show.

• If you go past week 41, you may be offered a membrane sweep or induction.

  
  

💡 Stay calm and prepared:

• Have your birth partner on standby.

• Keep your hospital bag by the door.

• Relax—your baby will arrive when ready.

Every Pregnancy is Unique

Pregnancy is a journey filled with changes, milestones, and emotions. Whether you’re in the exciting first trimester, the glowing second trimester, or the final countdown, every week brings you closer to meeting your baby.

Need more week-by-week pregnancy updates, expert advice, and a supportive community?

📲 Download Carol App today for FREE on IOS and Android to track your pregnancy, get real-time advice, and connect with other mums.