What does my baby look like at week 11?
If you could see your baby’s hand, you’d notice they have teeny, delicate fingernails. Their fingers and toes are starting to separate.
Your baby’s eyes have completely closed and won’t open again until week 26.
Their kidneys are making wee and their stomach is producing gastric juice. Your baby no longer needs their nutrient-rich yolk sac, because other organs have taken over.
Get weekly updates on your baby's development from our expert midwives straight to your inbox.
Your symptoms - what's happening
Stomach pain
Some stomach pain or discomfort is normal in pregnancy, as your stomach muscles and ligaments stretch to accommodate your growing womb.
However, if you are having ongoing abdominal/stomach pain, you should get it checked out by a doctor or midwife straight away. Read more about stomach pain and pregnancy.
You may also notice a dark vertical line going up your belly. This is called a linea nigra. It's nothing to worry about and will disappear some time after the birth.
Feeling hotter than normal
Your metabolic rate (all the work your body does to keep you alive) has increased and your body is working extra hard to support the new life inside it. This, hormones and the extra blood your body’s pumping can leave you feeling hotter than you would normally feel. Drink plenty of water and wear layers that you can remove if you’re feeling too hot.
Are you suffering from swollen feet or constipation? Perhaps you’re feeling dizzy? See our guide to 10 common pregnancy complaints (and how to avoid them).
“I got chatting online and shared everything with people going through the same thing - it was such a relief to get it all out and be honest!” Rebecca, mum of two
Your bump may begin to show
You might notice that your clothes feel tighter now, as your waist starts to thicken. Try wearing loose-fitting items for comfort.
You may even notice a baby bump starting to show, especially if this is not your first pregnancy. This varies a lot from woman to woman, though, so don't worry if your bump is not showing yet – it will come!
What to do in week 11
Snack attack
Having a handful of sunflower seeds will take the edge off hunger pangs and give you a hit of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, great for the development of your baby’s brain and eyesight.
These super seeds also offer vitamins B, D, E and K, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium and zinc.
Looking for more nutrition inspiration? Discover 10 brilliant food swaps for a healthy pregnancy.
Get fitted for a new bra
Your breasts may be getting bigger, so now might be a good time to invest in a good support bra, preferably non-wired. Visit your nearest department store for a fitting.
