Pregnancy is a time of tremendous change for your body, and your belly is no exception. As your baby grows and develops, your belly will expand and take on a new shape. This article provides a month-by-month guide to your changing pregnant belly, so you can track your progress and celebrate each new milestone along the way.
In the early weeks of pregnancy, you may not notice any significant changes to your belly. However, by the end of the first trimester, your uterus will have grown to the size of a grapefruit, and you may start to show a small bump. As you progress through the second trimester, your belly will continue to grow, and you may start to feel your baby move. By the third trimester, your belly will be fully expanded, and you will be carrying your baby high.
Keep reading to learn more about the changes to your belly during each month of pregnancy.
Month by Month Pregnant Belly
From tiny bump to full bloom.
- 1st Trimester: Small bump emerges.
- 2nd Trimester: Belly starts to show.
- 3rd Trimester: Belly fully expands.
- 4th Month: Uterus reaches belly button.
- 5th Month: Baby's movements felt.
- 6th Month: Belly button pops out.
- 7th Month: Belly reaches highest point.
- 8th Month: Baby drops, belly lowers.
Every belly is unique, so embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
1st Trimester: Small bump emerges.
In the first trimester of pregnancy, your belly will start to show a small bump. This is because your uterus is growing to accommodate your growing baby. The size of your bump will vary from woman to woman, depending on your body type and how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- 4 Weeks: Uterus the size of a walnut.
At this early stage, your belly will not be noticeable to others. However, you may start to feel some bloating and gas, which can make your belly look slightly larger.
- 8 Weeks: Uterus the size of a lemon.
By the end of the second month, your uterus will be about the size of a lemon. You may start to see a very small bump on your lower abdomen.
- 12 Weeks: Uterus the size of a grapefruit.
By the end of the first trimester, your uterus will be about the size of a grapefruit. Your bump will be more noticeable at this point, especially if you are wearing tight-fitting clothes.
- 13 Weeks: Belly starts to show.
In the fourth month of pregnancy, your belly will start to show more prominently. This is because your uterus is now rising out of your pelvis and into your abdomen. You may also start to feel your baby move, which is a sure sign that your pregnancy is progressing.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your bump to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
2nd Trimester: Belly starts to show.
In the second trimester of pregnancy, your belly will start to show more prominently. This is because your uterus is growing rapidly to accommodate your growing baby. You will also start to gain weight, which will contribute to the size of your bump.
- 4th Month: Uterus reaches belly button.
By the fourth month of pregnancy, your uterus will reach your belly button. Your bump will be more noticeable at this point, and you may start to need to wear maternity clothes.
- 5th Month: Baby's movements felt.
In the fifth month, you will likely start to feel your baby move. This is a special moment in your pregnancy, and it is a sign that your baby is growing and developing properly.
- 6th Month: Belly button pops out.
By the sixth month, your belly button will likely pop out. This is because your uterus is pushing against your abdominal wall. Your bump will be very noticeable at this point, and you will need to wear maternity clothes.
- 7th Month: Belly reaches highest point.
In the seventh month, your belly will reach its highest point. This is because your baby is now head down and engaged in your pelvis. Your bump will be very large at this point, and you may have difficulty finding comfortable positions to sit and sleep.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your bump to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
3rd Trimester: Belly fully expands.
In the third trimester of pregnancy, your belly will fully expand. This is because your baby is growing rapidly and gaining weight. You will also continue to gain weight, which will contribute to the size of your bump.
- 8th Month: Baby drops, belly lowers.
In the eighth month, your baby will likely drop down into your pelvis. This is called lightening. Lightening can cause your belly to look smaller and lower. You may also experience more frequent urination and pressure on your bladder.
- 9th Month: Belly at its largest.
In the ninth month, your belly will be at its largest. Your baby is now fully developed and ready to be born. You may feel uncomfortable and have difficulty moving around. It is important to rest and take care of yourself during this final month of pregnancy.
- Delivery: Belly disappears.
When you give birth, your belly will disappear. This is because your uterus will contract and shrink back to its original size. You will likely lose a lot of weight after giving birth, and your body will start to return to its pre-pregnancy shape.
- Postpartum: Belly takes time to shrink.
It is important to remember that it takes time for your belly to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size after giving birth. Be patient with yourself and don't try to lose weight too quickly. Focus on eating healthy and exercising regularly. Eventually, your belly will return to its normal size.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your bump to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
4th Month: Uterus reaches belly button.
In the fourth month of pregnancy, your uterus will reach your belly button. This is a significant milestone in your pregnancy, as it means that your belly will start to show more prominently. You may also start to feel your baby move, which is another exciting sign of your pregnancy.
As your uterus grows, it will push against your abdominal wall, causing your belly to bulge outward. The size of your bump will vary depending on your body type and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Women who are carrying multiples or who have had previous pregnancies may show earlier than first-time mothers.
At this stage of your pregnancy, you may start to need to wear maternity clothes. Maternity clothes are designed to accommodate your growing belly and provide you with comfort and support. You may also want to start using a belly band or support belt to help support your belly and relieve back pain.
It is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. You may also experience some common pregnancy symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, and constipation. These symptoms are usually temporary and will go away after your baby is born.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your bump to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
5th Month: Baby's movements felt.
In the fifth month of pregnancy, you will likely start to feel your baby move. This is a special moment in your pregnancy, and it is a sign that your baby is growing and developing properly.
- What do baby's movements feel like?
Baby's movements can feel like a fluttering, bubbling, or rolling sensation in your belly. As your baby gets bigger, their movements will become stronger and more frequent. You may even be able to see your belly move when your baby kicks or punches.
- When will I start feeling baby's movements?
Most women start feeling their baby move between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. However, some women may not feel their baby move until later in their pregnancy. This is perfectly normal, and there is no need to worry if you don't feel your baby move right away.
- How often should I feel baby's movements?
Once you start feeling your baby move, you should feel them move several times a day. The amount of movement will vary depending on your baby's activity level. If you ever notice a decrease in your baby's movements, be sure to contact your doctor or midwife.
- What should I do if I don't feel baby's movements?
If you are concerned about your baby's movements, there are a few things you can do. First, try eating or drinking something sweet. This can sometimes get your baby moving. You can also try lying down on your side and gently rubbing your belly. If you still don't feel your baby move after trying these things, be sure to contact your doctor or midwife. They can check on your baby's heartbeat and make sure that everything is okay.
Feeling your baby move is a wonderful experience. It is a reminder that your baby is growing and developing, and it is a sign of the special bond that you share with your child.
6th Month: Belly button pops out.
In the sixth month of pregnancy, your belly button will likely pop out. This is because your uterus is pushing against your abdominal wall, causing your belly to bulge outward. The size of your bump will vary depending on your body type and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Women who are carrying multiples or who have had previous pregnancies may show earlier than first-time mothers.
Your belly button may also change shape during pregnancy. It may become flatter or wider, or it may even protrude outward. This is all normal and is caused by the changes in your body as your baby grows.
Some women experience discomfort when their belly button pops out. This is usually caused by the stretching of the skin around your belly button. You can help to relieve this discomfort by wearing loose-fitting clothes and by using a belly band or support belt.
Your belly button will usually return to its normal shape after you give birth. However, some women may have a permanent belly button change, such as a flatter or wider belly button.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your bump to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
7th Month: Belly reaches highest point.
In the seventh month of pregnancy, your belly will reach its highest point. This is because your baby is now head down and engaged in your pelvis. Your bump will be very large at this point, and you may have difficulty finding comfortable positions to sit and sleep.
As your belly grows, it will push against your diaphragm, making it difficult to breathe. You may also experience heartburn, indigestion, and constipation. These are all common pregnancy symptoms and will usually go away after your baby is born.
It is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. You may also want to start preparing for the birth of your baby. This includes packing a hospital bag, taking childbirth classes, and choosing a pediatrician.
The seventh month of pregnancy is a time of anticipation and excitement. Your baby is growing and developing rapidly, and you are getting closer to meeting your little one. Enjoy this special time and cherish the memories.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your bump to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
8th Month: Baby drops, belly lowers.
In the eighth month of pregnancy, your baby will likely drop down into your pelvis. This is called lightening. Lightening can cause your belly to look smaller and lower. You may also experience more frequent urination and pressure on your bladder.
- Why does lightening happen?
Lightening happens when your baby's head engages in your pelvis. This means that your baby's head is now resting on your pelvic bones. Lightening can occur a few weeks before labor starts, or it can happen just a few hours before.
- What are the signs of lightening?
The signs of lightening include:
- Your belly looks smaller and lower.
- You have more frequent urination.
- You feel more pressure on your bladder.
- You have difficulty breathing.
- You have heartburn and indigestion.
- What should I do if I experience lightening?
If you experience lightening, there are a few things you can do to relieve your discomfort:
- Wear loose-fitting clothes.
- Use a belly band or support belt.
- Take frequent breaks to rest.
- Elevate your feet when you are sitting or lying down.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- When should I call my doctor or midwife?
You should call your doctor or midwife if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain or bleeding.
- A sudden decrease in your baby's movements.
- Your water breaks.
Lightening is a sign that your body is preparing for labor. It is a normal part of pregnancy and is nothing to be concerned about.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about your belly during each month of pregnancy:
Question 1: When will I start showing?
Answer: Most women start showing between 12 and 16 weeks of pregnancy. However, some women may not show until later in their pregnancy, while others may start showing earlier.
Question 2: How big will my belly get?
Answer: The size of your belly will vary depending on your body type, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and whether you are carrying multiples. However, most women's bellies will be fully expanded by the third trimester.
Question 3: What are some common pregnancy belly symptoms?
Answer: Some common pregnancy belly symptoms include:
- Stretch marks
- Itching
- Pain
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
Question 4: What can I do to relieve pregnancy belly discomfort?
Answer: There are a few things you can do to relieve pregnancy belly discomfort, including:
- Wearing loose-fitting clothes
- Using a belly band or support belt
- Taking frequent breaks to rest
- Elevating your feet when you are sitting or lying down
- Drinking plenty of fluids
Question 5: When should I call my doctor or midwife about my belly?
Answer: You should call your doctor or midwife if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain or bleeding
- A sudden decrease in your baby's movements
- Your water breaks
Question 6: What happens to my belly after I give birth?
Answer: Your belly will start to shrink after you give birth. However, it may take several weeks or even months for your belly to return to its pre-pregnancy size.
If you have any other questions about your belly during pregnancy, be sure to talk to your doctor or midwife.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your belly to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
Tips
Here are a few tips for coping with your changing belly during pregnancy:
Tip 1: Wear comfortable clothes.
As your belly grows, you will need to wear clothes that are comfortable and allow you to move freely. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that will constrict your belly.
Tip 2: Use a belly band or support belt.
A belly band or support belt can help to support your belly and relieve pain and discomfort. You can start wearing a belly band or support belt as early as the second trimester.
Tip 3: Take frequent breaks to rest.
As your pregnancy progresses, you will need to take frequent breaks to rest. This will help to prevent fatigue and back pain.
Tip 4: Elevate your feet when you are sitting or lying down.
Elevating your feet can help to reduce swelling in your feet and ankles. It can also help to improve circulation and relieve back pain.
Tip 5: Drink plenty of fluids.
Staying hydrated is important for your overall health and well-being during pregnancy. Drinking plenty of fluids can also help to prevent constipation, which is a common pregnancy symptom.
Following these tips can help you to cope with your changing belly during pregnancy and enjoy this special time in your life.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so don't compare your belly to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
Conclusion
As you progress through your pregnancy, your belly will change shape and size. This is a normal part of pregnancy and is nothing to be concerned about. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!
Here are some of the main points to remember about your belly during pregnancy:
- Your belly will start to show between 12 and 16 weeks of pregnancy.
- The size of your belly will vary depending on your body type, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and whether you are carrying multiples.
- Some common pregnancy belly symptoms include stretch marks, itching, pain, constipation, heartburn, and indigestion.
- There are a few things you can do to relieve pregnancy belly discomfort, such as wearing loose-fitting clothes, using a belly band or support belt, taking frequent breaks to rest, elevating your feet when you are sitting or lying down, and drinking plenty of fluids.
- You should call your doctor or midwife if you experience severe pain or bleeding, a sudden decrease in your baby's movements, or your water breaks.
- Your belly will start to shrink after you give birth. However, it may take several weeks or even months for your belly to return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Remember, every pregnancy is different. Don't compare your belly to anyone else's. Embrace your changing shape and enjoy the journey!