At 14 weeks, you’re firmly into the second trimester and hopefully enjoying the perks of this part of pregnancy. For many women, the nausea and fatigue of the first trimester have now passed!

New discomforts may replace these, but the second trimester is often when there’s a burst of new energy, a resumption of appetite, and perhaps even a surge of excitement and anticipation for meeting your little one.

Your Baby’s Development At 14 Weeks

Your baby’s length is now measured from head to toe rather than head to rump, so he’s quickly gone from about 2.5 inches last week to just over five and a half inches this week, though he hasn’t actually doubled in size. According to Perinatology, the baby’s total mass has increased from about 2.6 ounces last week (on average) to about 3.3 ounces this week, so his size has increased by about 25% in a single week.

The baby’s skeleton continues to become more solid bone (ossify), and he has all his organs, though they aren’t yet developed enough to support him outside the uterus. It’s even possible that an ultrasound this week could identify the baby’s sex, although it remains uncertain enough that most moms won’t find out for a few months yet.

Your baby is now covered in soft, peach-fuzz-like hair called lanugo, which will protect his skin and help keep him warm. Baby may still have this hair at birth or may shed it in the last weeks of gestation. His arms are approximately proportional to the rest of his body, though his legs haven’t yet caught up, and his head is still disproportionately large for his tiny body. (That’s a developing brain!)

Baby is also now trying out those facial muscles, making all sorts of expressions and even sucking his thumb! It’s possible that an ultrasound now will catch some of these cute moments!

Quick Overview: Baby's Development At 14 Weeks Pregnant:

• Baby’s length is now measured from head to toe, increasing from 2.5 inches last week to over 5.5 inches this week, though not actually doubling in size.
• Total mass has increased by about 25% in a week, from 2.6 ounces to 3.3 ounces.
• The skeleton continues to ossify, becoming more solid bone.
• All organs are present but not yet developed enough for survival outside the uterus.
• Ultrasound may detect a baby’s sex, though confirmation usually comes later.
• Lanugo, a soft, peach-fuzz-like hair, now covers baby’s skin for warmth and protection.
• Arms are proportional, but legs are still catching up, and the head remains large due to brain development.
• Baby is making facial expressions and sucking his thumb, which may be visible on an ultrasound.

Mother’s Symptoms At 14 Weeks

Some lucky moms report a reduction in the harshest first-trimester symptoms (nausea and fatigue) by week 12, but by week 14, a majority say those have diminished. Unfortunately, the second trimester has prepared replacements in the form of heartburn/indigestion and shortness of breath.

Digestive Symptoms

Thanks to the new squeeze on your organs, added to extra blood volume, hormonal changes, and more, you may now find that your returned appetite has after-effects. Heartburn and indigestion can be disruptive in the second trimester. They may even be accompanied by constipation.

Basic over-the-counter antacids with calcium carbonate, like Tums or Rolaids, are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, many OTC favorites, like Pepto-Bismol, are not recommended during pregnancy, thanks to some evidence they may be harmful to your baby.

Check ingredients: magnesium trisilicate, sodium bicarbonate, and aspirin are all included in some heartburn or indigestion relief products and are unsafe during pregnancy.

For constipation, milk of magnesia is generally considered safe for most women by most providers, as are many stool softeners. However, stimulant laxatives can cause complications, especially later in pregnancy.

If you’re unsure, please check which medications they recommend with your doctor.

You can also alleviate the effects of heartburn by eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, and resting in a reclined position instead of flat. Dietary changes, including staying sufficiently hydrated, can relieve constipation.

Cravings

Old sitcoms have taught us that pregnant women love pickles and ice cream. In reality, you might find yourself craving everyday foods in unusual combinations or foods you don’t normally eat. You might also find that you crave foods that are unsafe (like raw beef) or for nonfoods, like dirt and paper.

As long as your cravings are for safe and edible items, it’s okay to give your body what it asks for, but it’s also good to consider what nutrients it’s asking for rather than merely what foods. For instance, that craving for ice cream might be about the calcium in dairy products, and you may be able to satisfy it with a healthier choice, especially if it is persistent.

If you do crave things that aren’t safe to eat, speak to your doctor. They may recommend a substitute or a supplement. Cravings for nonfood items, for instance, may be caused by low iron levels, and taking a supplement or eating more red meat and spinach is safer for you and your baby than chewing paper.

Side note: ice is a common craving during pregnancy. While ice is generally safe and edible, it doesn’t meet any nutritional needs, and this craving can also be a sign of anemia. You may want to limit your ice-crunching because of potential harm to your teeth, but if it’s a craving, you should also check with your doctor to see if an iron supplement would be advisable.

Possible Symptoms Of Pre-Eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a serious condition in pregnancy that prompts your doctor to monitor you much more closely for changes. It may require early delivery of your baby or other special care. Many symptoms of pre-eclampsia can look like typical pregnancy symptoms but mare ore severe, so contact your doctor if in doubt.

While some swelling and bloating may be expected in pregnancy, sudden swelling, swelling in the face, or swelling that is visibly more prominent in one leg than the other can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.

Some dizziness, shortness of breath, and headaches can be very typical in the second trimester as your organs squeeze together, putting more pressure on your lungs, and your heart works to pump a higher blood volume. However, if these are severe, they can be signs of pre-eclampsia.

Watch out for headaches not relieved by medication or hydration, especially when the headache is unbearable. A little dizziness or lightheadedness should be reported to your doctor, but if it’s severe or you faint or pass out, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

You may be starting to gain weight, but sudden gains that are too rapid can be a concern.

Any vision changes can be a sign of pre-eclampsia, too.

Skin & Hair

The second-trimester hormones can have massive effects on skin and hair.

For many women, hair is suddenly thicker, more luscious, and generally feels and looks great. On the other hand, you might also find that hair on your legs and arms is thicker and darker than ever, and you may discover hairs in places you’re not used to, like your face and back.

Some hair dyes are considered safe during pregnancy, but use them with great caution. Bleach or dyes that use ammonia, parabens, phthalates, or hydrogen peroxide can be dangerous, and using any chemicals in an area that isn’t well-ventilated can be harmful. You may wish to seek your doctor’s advice before proceeding.

Skin changes are also common in the second trimester, including dry or oily skin, acne breakouts, and new sensitivities to chemicals, soaps, and detergents.

Some acne treatments are considered safe during pregnancy, though generally in limited amounts. The College of Family Physicians of Canada published an analysis of different product types in 2011, finding that products using hydroquinone have high levels of absorption that make their safety questionable. Products with glycolic acid can also have high absorption rates. Products with erythromycin, clindamycin phosphate, or salicylic acid had lower absorption rates and may be safer.

However, since this data can change suddenly and individual needs vary, it’s best to check with your doctor about the safest products.

On a related note, if you use lotions to treat dry skin, you may want to avoid scented products or introducing new products since sensitivities can change during pregnancy. It’s also a good idea to use caution when introducing new soaps or detergents during pregnancy.

Breast Changes

The breast tenderness of the early weeks of pregnancy may be past, but you may still notice some discomfort from extra weight. Continue using a comfortable and supportive bra!

You may also notice visual changes, including larger areola and visible blue veins. However, cracked or bleeding nipples may need treatment and should be mentioned to your doctor.

Some women will begin leaking colostrum in the second trimester, though others will not see a drop until later in pregnancy. Still, others will only notice colostrum after the baby is born. You may choose to use breast pads, disposable or washable, to avoid leaking through your clothing, staining your bras, or causing your skin to stick to clothing. If the pad sticks, you can use a little warm water to loosen it.

Gel-type breast pads are a little more expensive but are reusable and may be soothing if you do experience continued soreness.

Pain, Cramping, & Discharge

Some cramping and pain during pregnancy can be expected.

Many women will suffer round ligament pain, caused when the round ligaments are forced to stretch to accommodate a growing uterus.

The severity of this can vary widely; for some women, it may be so sharp and severe as to cause panic. The pain, which can extend from the abdominal area down into the groin, typically eases with a change in position, a warm bath, or OTC pain meds.

It’s also normal to have a clear or whitish vaginal discharge during pregnancy, but any gray, green, or foul-smelling discharge could be a sign of infection and should be reported to your doctor. Any bleeding in the second-trimester warrants contact with your doctor, and heavy bleeding can be considered an emergency. However, be aware that the cervix can be sensitive so that some bleeding may be normal after intercourse or an internal exam.

14 Week Pregnancy Symptoms Quick Recap:

• Nausea and fatigue may ease by week 14, but heartburn, indigestion, and shortness of breath may take their place.
• Heartburn, indigestion, and constipation are common due to organ pressure, hormonal changes, and increased blood volume.
• Cravings for unusual food combinations may occur, including cravings for unsafe or non-food items (pica).
• Ice cravings are common and may indicate anemia.
• Swelling, particularly sudden or uneven swelling in the face or one leg, might be a warning sign of pre-eclampsia.
• Severe dizziness, shortness of breath, and headaches can occur and may indicate a more serious issue.
• Persistent, unbearable headaches that do not respond to hydration or medication should be monitored.
• Sudden, rapid weight gain may be a concern.
• Vision changes can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.
• Hair may become thicker or grow in new places, such as the face or back.
• Skin changes, including dry or oily skin, acne, and new product sensitivities, may develop.
• Breast changes, including larger areolas, visible blue veins, and possible colostrum leakage, may occur.
• Cracked or bleeding nipples should be mentioned to a doctor.
• Round ligament pain can cause sharp abdominal and groin discomfort.
• Clear or whitish vaginal discharge is normal, but gray, green, or foul-smelling discharge may indicate infection.
• Any bleeding should be reported to a doctor, with heavy bleeding considered an emergency.

When To Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor or emergency services immediately for any of the signs of pre-eclampsia as described above — vision changes, sudden or unusual swelling, fainting, severe headaches that don’t go away, or excessively rapid weight gain.

You should contact your doctor for any pain or cramping that is severe and doesn’t go away with pain meds or a change in position and for any cramping or pain in your chest. Any cramping accompanied by vaginal bleeding also requires a check with your doctor.

Contact your doctor or seek emergency care for severe nausea and vomiting, vomiting that includes blood, or signs of dehydration such as inability to pass urine over more extended periods or for any severe dizziness or fainting.

Mental health symptoms should be reported to your doctor. Mild symptoms may be brought up at your next appointment, but more severe symptoms warrant an immediate call. If symptoms reach crisis levels, treat them accordingly by contacting a crisis line or emergency services. Remember that there are treatment options available during pregnancy, even if your usual meds are not safe or appropriate.

You should also call your doctor for signs of infection, including unusual discharge, swelling, or itching.

What Should Mom Be Doing At 14 Weeks?

Do your best to get the nutrients you and your baby need. Pay attention to cravings, but don’t let them control your choices. A multivitamin could be a good choice. Calcium is essential for your baby’s developing bones and for your teeth, which can suffer during pregnancy.

Try to balance keeping active while not overdoing it. Walking is a good choice for many people during pregnancy, and those with an exercise regime can often continue as normal. However, heavy lifting may pose some risks. If your exercise routine, job, or daily life involves strenuous activity, you may need to check with your doctor about any changes necessary for safety.

Choose comfortable clothing that supports your changing body. This may mean looser shirts, maternity pants, a supportive bra, and possibly a belly band to reduce round ligament pain. You may also need new shoes during this trimester for extra support and because some women’s feet may grow into a new size!

Some women like to have a home doppler to listen to their baby between appointments. While this can ease anxiety in some cases, these machines vary widely in reliability. To reduce the risk of panic induced by mechanical failure, thoroughly check reviews before selecting a product, and remember that these are primarily for entertainment and novelty — not a substitute for medical care.

Some women wait until the second trimester to announce a pregnancy. Now is a good time to do so if you’ve waited. It’s also good time to speak to your employer and start planning for maternity leave and consider contingency plans for any additional time off you may need.

Quick Recap Of What Mom Should Be Doing At 14 Weeks Pregnant:

• Ensure you and your baby get essential nutrients, considering a multivitamin and sufficient calcium for bone health.
• Balance staying active without overdoing it, especially if your routine involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity.
• Wear comfortable clothing that supports your changing body, including looser shirts, maternity pants, a supportive bra, and possibly a belly band.
• New shoes may be needed, as some women experience foot growth during pregnancy.
• Consider a home doppler for listening to your baby, but be aware of variability in reliability and its novelty rather than medical use.
• Now is a good time to announce your pregnancy, if you’ve waited until the second trimester.
• Discuss maternity leave with your employer and start planning for any additional time off you may need.

What To Look Forward To

Many women have an extra burst of energy at some point in the second trimester. If you haven’t experienced this, the next week or so could bring a second wind.

You may also be excited about learning your baby’s sex, which you’ll know soon if you opt-in to genetic testing. If not, you may find out during your next ultrasound, between 18 and 22 weeks. These screenings will soon provide you with more assurances of your baby’s health, development, and well-being.