Month-by-Month Pregnancy & Postpartum Guide
3 Months Pregnant
Weeks 9–13 - First Trimester
You’ve made it to the last few weeks of your first trimester!
Yes, those pregnancy hormone levels are still on the rise, but they should begin to stabilize soon! This means that you may still be navigating some of those early pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, tender breasts, mood swings, leg cramps, and more. It may also mean that you might experience some relief soon!
By the end of month three of pregnancy, your baby has tiny hands, feet, fingers, and toes! At this stage of pregnancy your baby's reproductive organs are developing, however sex is still difficult to determine on ultrasound. You may learn the sex of your baby from an NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) if this is something you are planning to do. This test can take place as early as week 10 of pregnancy. All this new information may help take your mind off those symptoms!
What’s Your Body Doing at 3 Months Pregnant?
The first trimester of pregnancy is associated with a lot of hormonal changes, especially weeks 9–13. Pregnancy hormones continue to rise, and at week 9 of pregnancy hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) reaches its peak. This is why many pregnant women experience peak early pregnancy symptoms during this time. Some physical symptoms you may be experiencing include:
-
Uterus expansion (your uterus expands to roughly the size of a plum during this month)
-
Rapid hair and nail growth
-
Oily skin or acne
-
Breast changes (tenderness, increase in size, darker areolas, and nipple sensitivity)
-
Weight gain: expected weight gain by month three is around 1.5–5 lbs.
Your body is experiencing so much growth during month 3 of pregnancy to support all of that amazing fetal development! Be sure to take good care of your body physically by attending your prenatal appointments, focusing on a healthy balanced diet, and partaking in gentle daily exercises.
Tiny fingers and toes
By the end of month three, your baby has tiny hands, feet, fingers, and toes! Even baby’s fingernails are starting to form.
How You Might be Feeling at 3 Months Pregnant
Many pregnant women continue to feel the same symptoms from the previous month. Some of the symptoms you may experience during month 3 include:
-
Fatigue
-
Nausea
-
Constipation
-
Frequent urination
-
Metallic taste in the mouth
-
Breast tenderness
Remember to reach out to your healthcare provider for medical advice if you are having difficulty managing any of these symptoms. Also remind yourself that many of these symptoms may ease up as you are approaching your second trimester of pregnancy—nausea may subside and energy levels may be on the rise soon!
Things to Do in Month 3 of Pregnancy
1. Attend your second prenatal appointment
- Your provider will assess your baby’s heart rate and review your vital signs, including your weight and blood pressure.
- You may have your first ultrasound (or another chance to see your baby if you’ve already had one). Based on the measurements from the scan, your provider may also update your estimated due date, if needed.
- Discuss genetic screening options with your trusted healthcare professionals and decide on an option that’s best for you. Genetic screening options around month 3 may include NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing).
2. Research prenatal classes
- You may have access to both online and in-person classes. We offer virtual prenatal classes including nutrition-focused options like our Prenatal Nutrition class and Bump to Baby Nutrition class.
3. Understand your maternity rights
- You have rights to healthcare, both during and after pregnancy—know your rights as a childbearing woman.
4. Focus on hydration and smaller, frequent meals to help with nausea
- Pregnancy hormones can slow your digestive system, which may lead to constipation, stay hydrated and try to incorporate fiber-rich foods.
- Keep eating a balanced diet with a variety of different foods—plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein.
We created a handy, downloadable checklist that includes the key things to do or think about this month. Simply download, save it on your phone, and bring it up whenever you need a reminder!
Wrap-Up
Take it one day at a time! You may still be full of excitement from that positive pregnancy test! Or you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed with all of the symptoms that come along with hormones peaking at the end of your first trimester. However you’re feeling, know that it is a completely normal part of pregnancy.
Continue to focus on establishing good prenatal care, fueling your body with good nutrition, and rest. Start researching prenatal education resources and classes to feel prepared for the journey ahead!
FAQs
How many weeks is 3 months pregnant?
3 months pregnant is 9–13 weeks of pregnancy, part of the 1st trimester.
What are the most common symptoms at 3 months pregnant?
Common symptoms at 3 months of pregnancy include fatigue, nausea, constipation, frequent urination, metallic taste in the mouth, mood swings, and breast tenderness.
What changes can I expect in my body at 3 months pregnant?
Physical changes to expect in your body at 3 months pregnant include a growing uterus, rapid hair and nail growth, oily skin or acne, breast changes, and weight gain.
Are there any warning signs I should watch for during the third month of pregnancy?
Some warning signs to watch out for during month 3 of pregnancy are vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain or pelvic pain, extreme nausea or vomiting, persistent headaches, vision changes, dizziness/fainting, or shortness of breath. Please reach out to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Is it normal to still have morning sickness at 3 months pregnant?
Yes, morning sickness is very common to experience at month 3 of pregnancy. This can be attributed to those rising pregnancy hormones. The good news is that these hormones are reaching their peak and beginning to stabilize during weeks 9–13, which is why many pregnant women experience a decrease in some of those uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms as they approach the second trimester
What prenatal appointments or tests are usually done during the third month of pregnancy?
Some prenatal tests performed during month three of pregnancy may include a prenatal ultrasound (to check baby’s development), genetic testing (to test for genetic conditions), physical exam (vital signs, height, and weight), and infection screening (blood sample to check for infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, and others).
When will my belly start showing if I’m 3 months pregnant?
It is possible, but unlikely that your belly will start to show during month 3 of pregnancy, especially if this is your first pregnancy. Your uterus grows to roughly the size of a plum by the end of your first trimester. For many, pregnancy won't begin to show until around week 16–20 of pregnancy.
Can I exercise safely if I’m 3 months pregnant?
Yes! Unless you have any specific medical concerns, regular daily exercise is typically encouraged during this month of pregnancy. Even a few minutes of exercise, especially if performed outside, can boost energy levels and mood during these weeks of pregnancy. A brisk walk outside with the fresh air and sunshine can support mood and natural vitamin D production.
Also, keep in mind that a mild exercise regimen can include pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles which are very important during labor and birth!
Helpful Resources
Nutrition During Pregnancy Care Guide
Everything from what and how much you should eat to important nutrients to include during pregnancy.
How Much Water Should I Drink During Pregnancy? Blog
Learn more about the recommended daily fluid intake during pregnancy, plus benefits and tips for staying hydrated.
Bump to Baby Nutrition Class
Covering all your nutrition questions from pregnancy through postpartum and breastfeeding, including your changing nutrition needs and planning balanced meals.
Qualify for Motherhood Essentials through Insurance
You can qualify for a breast pump at any time during pregnancy and up to one-year postpartum. See if you qualify for a pump, pregnancy & breastfeeding classes, milk storage bags and more through your insurance or log in to check on your account details.
