I remember being 10 weeks pregnant and feeling a mix of excitement and a bit of overwhelm. At this point, the symptoms I’d been dealing with since I found out I was pregnant—fatigue, nausea, and mood swings—were still hanging around. But something felt different, like I was finally starting to get the hang of it. My baby was no longer an embryo; they were now a fetus, and I was seeing that little heartbeat on an ultrasound for the first time.
It was a moment that made everything feel real, but I won’t lie — the early pregnancy weeks can be tough. The nausea doesn’t always disappear, you’re tired all the time, and you’re starting to really feel like your body’s not just your own anymore.
But here’s the good news: you’re getting closer to the second trimester, which means a lot of those early pregnancy symptoms might start to ease up.
Hang in there, mama — this week, I’m sharing exactly what you can expect at 10 weeks pregnant, and some tips that helped me feel a little more in control of the chaos. Let’s dive in!
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1. Your Baby at 10 Weeks Pregnant : A Strawberry-Sized Miracle
At 10 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a strawberry — roughly 1.3 inches long and weighing around 0.3 ounces. But don’t let their tiny size fool you — there’s a lot going on in that little body!
- Major organs are working : All of your baby’s major organs are now fully formed and starting to function. It’s mind-blowing to think that, just a few weeks ago, this little person was nothing more than a cluster of cells.
- Developing features : Fingers and toes are now fully separated, and the eyes are developing — although they’re still closed at this point. Teeth buds are also forming under the gums, and tiny taste buds are starting to emerge.
- Heartbeat : Baby’s heart is beating at a regular rhythm now, and it’s beating faster than yours — about 180 beats per minute. If you haven’t had an ultrasound yet, this is the perfect time to see baby’s little heart flutter on the screen. I remember hearing that for the first time, and it was such a magical moment.
Tip: Even though you’re only 10 weeks along, baby’s development is already so advanced. It’s amazing to think about how much they’ve grown in such a short time!
2. Your Body at 10 Weeks Pregnant : Hormones and Growth
By now, your body is starting to really feel the effects of pregnancy. The early days of morning sickness may still be hanging around, and fatigue can leave you feeling like a walking zombie. But here’s the thing: your baby is growing, and your body is doing a lot of hard work to support that little life.
Here are some of the most common symptoms you might be experiencing:
- Nausea and morning sickness : It’s still common at 10 weeks pregnant, though you might start noticing that it’s becoming less frequent. If you’re still struggling, try snacking on bland foods or drinking ginger tea — it really helped me in the first trimester.
- Fatigue : You’re probably still feeling super tired. Growing a baby is exhausting! Your body is working overtime to create the placenta and support baby’s development, so be sure to rest when you can.
- Increased vaginal discharge : You might notice more discharge at this point in your pregnancy. It’s totally normal and is your body’s way of keeping things clean and healthy.
- Breast tenderness : Your breasts are getting ready for breastfeeding, and that means they might still feel sore or swollen. I remember wishing for a little relief at this stage — but a supportive bra made all the difference for me.
Tip: Give yourself permission to rest, even if it feels like there’s always something to do. Your body is doing a lot right now, and taking care of yourself is key.
3. Your First Prenatal Ultrasound : A Big Milestone
At 10 weeks pregnant, it’s common to have your first prenatal ultrasound. I remember how nervous I was for mine — it felt like this huge moment. But as soon as the technician placed the ultrasound wand on my belly and I saw that little baby on the screen, my heart melted.
This is the moment you’ll get to see your baby’s heartbeat for the first time, and it’s a moment you’ll never forget. The excitement of hearing that little thump-thump is incredible.
Tip: Be sure to ask your doctor or ultrasound tech about any concerns you have. I had a ton of questions, and it helped me feel more prepared.
4. Taking Care of Yourself : Simple Self-Care Tips
Now, more than ever, it’s important to take care of your body and your mind. Pregnancy can be overwhelming, but focusing on self-care can really make a difference in how you feel.
- Prenatal vitamins : Keep taking those prenatal vitamins! They’re packed with folic acid and other nutrients that are crucial for your baby’s development.
- Healthy eating : Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. I found that having small, frequent meals helped with nausea and gave me more energy throughout the day.
- Exercise : If you’re feeling up for it, regular exercise like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help reduce stress, boost your energy, and improve sleep quality.
- Hydration : Drinking plenty of water is key to staying energized and preventing dehydration, especially with the increase in vaginal discharge and the early signs of swelling.
Expert Insight: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week during pregnancy for most women. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor about what’s safe for you.
5. Milestones at 10 Weeks Pregnant : A New Chapter
This week marks the end of the embryonic period and the beginning of the fetal period. This means your baby is starting to look more and more like a little human, and their organs are continuing to develop.
- Nervous system : The baby’s nervous system is rapidly developing. Though you won’t feel any movement yet, their brain is growing quickly.
- Heart rhythm : The heart is beating at a regular rhythm now — a huge milestone!
Tip: Celebrate this milestone with a little self-care. Whether it’s relaxing with a cup of tea, taking a walk, or indulging in some quiet time, acknowledging these milestones can help you connect with your baby and your body.
6. What to Do Next : Preparing for the Next Steps
Now that you’re 10 weeks pregnant, it’s a good time to start thinking about the next steps in your pregnancy journey:
- Schedule your second prenatal appointment : You’ll likely have this appointment around weeks 12-16. Your doctor may perform additional tests or screenings.
- Start baby shopping : You don’t need to go overboard just yet, but it’s a good time to start thinking about baby clothes, gear, and nursery items.
- Consider childbirth classes : If you haven’t already, this might be the perfect time to start thinking about childbirth classes or reading up on labor and delivery.
Tip: Don’t stress about having everything figured out right now. Pregnancy is a journey, and you have plenty of time to prepare!
7. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, you’re doing amazing. The first trimester is full of ups and downs, but at 10 weeks pregnant, you’re nearing the end of this challenging phase. Keep taking care of yourself, and don’t forget that your body is doing incredible things. Your baby is growing so quickly, and soon, you’ll start to feel better and have more energy to enjoy this pregnancy.
Remember: it’s okay to have tough days. Give yourself grace and celebrate every small win along the way. You’ve got this.
What was the most surprising thing about your 10th week of pregnancy? Share your experiences in the comments — you’re not alone in this journey, and other mamas might need to hear your story!