Pregnancy at week 9

Your baby

Your baby is growing very quickly and their tiny muscles have developed enough for them to be able to move around. Their skin is transparent, and their arms and legs are bent so it looks like they are hugging themselves.

Your baby's shape is now more recognisable. Their head is still large and the features on the face are forming, with closed eyes, a mouth and tongue, including tiny taste buds. The inner ear is forming too, but your baby won't be able to hear until about 24 weeks.

Your body

Your 'baby bump' probably won't be visible just yet, but you may start putting on some weight. You don't need any extra calories at this stage of your pregnancy, you just need to make sure you eat the right foods, with enough nutrients for you and your baby. It's important to follow a healthy diet throughout your pregnancy.

Your skin may be producing more oil because of the pregnancy hormones. This may give you a lovely pregnancy glow – but it might also give you pimples. Some women find their skin is drier than normal. Drinking plenty of water – 6 to 8 glasses a day – will help.

You may still be feeling very nauseous, but any morning sickness should subside in a few weeks. Many women develop headaches at this time. It's OK to take paracetamol while you're pregnant but take the lowest dose for the shortest possible time. If you have migraines, talk to your doctor about what medication is safe to take.

Things to remember

Because of your pregnancy hormones, you might need to go to the toilet more often than usual. If you feel a burning or stinging sensation, or if you need to pass urine very frequently, see your doctor or midwife since this could be a sign of an infection. Urinary tract infections are more common in pregnancy.

Many women wonder whether it's OK to have sex during early pregnancy. Unless your doctor or midwife has told you otherwise, sex is perfectly fine and won't harm your baby. Some women don't feel like sex at this time while others want more sex than usual.

Resources and support

Speak to your doctor, midwife or obstetrician if you have questions about your pregnancy.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby also has more information on:

NEXT WEEK...YOUR PREGNANCY AT WEEK 10 — Learn about your pregnancy journey and what is happening to you and your baby.

Speak to a maternal child health nurse

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Last reviewed: August 2023