Pregnancy Calendar at Week 11

What's Happening with the Baby

The 11th week of pregnancy is marked by the rapid growth of the fetus. The baby now has a large head, a smaller torso, and distinctly formed arms and legs, which are tucked close to the body. The fetus measures up to 7 cm, roughly the size of a ripe fig. At eleven weeks, the baby weighs between 11 and 15 grams.

By the 11th week, the baby begins to respond to external stimuli. Loud noises or sudden movements by the pregnant mother can cause the fetus to move. The baby can change its position within the uterine cavity, moving its arms and legs. Tactile receptors start to appear on the palms and soles, reacting to touches from the umbilical cord, movements of the amniotic fluid, and more. The first taste and smell receptors begin to develop on the surface of the tongue and the mucous membrane of the nose, respectively.

The diameter of the umbilical cord increases due to the development and growth of blood vessels. This ensures that the developing fetus receives enough nutrients and oxygen. Internal organs and the musculoskeletal system are growing rapidly. Tooth buds appear in the gums. By the 11th week, the kidneys and pancreas are almost fully formed. The first motor reflexes, such as sucking and grasping, start to emerge.

By the 11th week, the fetus develops vocal cords, which are structurally and functionally immature. The formation of the eye apparatus, including the iris, is completed. The iris determines the baby's eye color after birth.

The risk of developmental anomalies is low after the 11th week. By this time, the formation of internal organs and the central nervous system is observed. In the brain, two distinct hemispheres and the cerebellum are clearly defined. Determining the sex at 11 weeks is difficult because the genital organs are represented by primary structures.

What's Happening with Mom

A woman's body continues to change at 11 weeks. These changes are due to the influence of hormones, whose balance shifts during gestation.

Changes in the Uterus

Starting from the 11th week of pregnancy, the size of the uterus begins to increase rapidly. This is due to the intense growth and weight gain of the fetus. During a pelvic ultrasound, specialists note that the uterus almost completely occupies the pelvic cavity. There is no noticeable increase in the size of the abdomen. Upon palpation, the upper edge of the uterus can be felt in the area of the pubic symphysis. This is determined by the gynecologist during a routine check-up.

Lower Abdominal Pain

This is associated with the stretching of the ligaments that hold the uterus in the abdominal cavity. The pain is dull and of moderate intensity. Severe pain is not typical for a normal pregnancy. If persistent discomfort occurs, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist. The specialist will conduct a physical and gynecological examination and may refer the woman for a pelvic ultrasound. This helps to determine the cause of the pain and, if necessary, to select appropriate treatment.

Frequent Urination

This is a physiological sign of pregnancy. It is caused by the pressure of the enlarging uterus on the bladder, which reduces its capacity. Additionally, frequent urination is due to hormonal changes and increased fluid intake.

Headaches

It's common for women to experience these symptoms at 11 weeks pregnant. Pinpointing the exact cause can often be difficult. They might be related to fatigue, increased anxiety, hormonal imbalances, and stress. Headaches can also occur due to infections like the common cold, bronchitis, etc. Before taking any painkillers, it's important to consult with your OB-GYN.

Discomfort and Lower Back Pain

These are typical during this stage of pregnancy. The main reason is the increased load on the spine due to the growing size of the fetus and uterus. If the pain is severe and accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge or fever, you should seek medical attention from your gynecologist immediately. These symptoms could indicate serious conditions or pregnancy complications. Additionally, the pain might be related to scoliosis, osteochondrosis, or other spinal issues. For a thorough diagnosis, you should consult a neurologist or orthopedist.

Breast Enlargement at 11 Weeks Continues

This is related to the growth of glandular structures and swelling of soft tissues, which develop due to hormonal changes in the body. Breast changes are accompanied by a tingling sensation and heaviness, as well as increased sensitivity of the skin and nipples. These manifestations are physiological in nature and are not symptoms of any pathology.

Increased Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

Sweating is common for pregnant women in the first trimester of gestation. Changes in hormonal levels and the large amount of fluid consumed throughout the day create conditions for increased skin blood flow and hyperhidrosis. Sweating is most pronounced at night. To prevent sweating, women are advised to avoid cosmetic products and follow general hygiene rules. There is no need to use any medications to eliminate hyperhidrosis.

Vaginal Discharge

At the 11th week of gestation, women may experience vaginal discharge that is odorless and colorless. It appears clear with a whitish tint. This discharge is due to increased mucus production in the vagina, caused by high levels of progesterone in the blood. If the discharge contains pus or has a cottage cheese-like consistency, the pregnant woman should seek medical attention immediately. These changes could be a sign of a yeast infection or sexually transmitted infections. Such conditions are also accompanied by other symptoms: burning and pain in the pelvic area, redness, and swelling of the labia. Acute infectious diseases of the female reproductive organs during pregnancy pose a threat to the baby's health, as they can cause developmental defects, even leading to miscarriage. Therefore, a comprehensive treatment plan is prescribed for the patient after an examination by a gynecologist.

Bleeding of Various Locations

The increase in blood volume due to elevated progesterone levels and frequent fluid intake leads to increased fragility of blood vessels. Therefore, pregnant women may experience nosebleeds. If blood vessels in the vagina are damaged during sexual intercourse or a gynecological exam, spotting may occur. These can be signs of conditions affecting the female reproductive system, such as glandular cervical erosion, fibroids, polyps, or infectious diseases. If vaginal bleeding occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention.

Body Temperature Increase to 37-37.5ºC

For pregnant women, these temperature values at 11 weeks are considered normal. Slight hyperthermia is associated with hormonal changes in the woman’s body. It is important to understand that if the elevated temperature is observed with respiratory illnesses or inflammatory foci in the body, it is a symptom of those conditions. In such cases, appropriate therapy is required.

Fatigue

Pregnant women often feel tired and unusually sleepy. This is accompanied by mood swings that aren't related to any external causes. The main reason for fatigue and emotional instability is hormonal changes in the body. To reduce the severity of these symptoms, it's recommended to increase sleep and rest time during the day, as well as to normalize your diet.

Increased Appetite

At the 11th week, doctors consider it normal. It's associated with the disappearance of signs of morning sickness, which is characterized by nausea and aversion to food. The return of appetite can lead to weight gain. Therefore, a woman should monitor her food intake.

Hormonal Changes in the Body

lead to changes in preferences for smells and food. During pregnancy, there is an increased need for minerals and vitamins, so a woman may crave foods she previously avoided, and so on. It's important to note that some cravings can become unusual. For example, a pregnant woman might want to eat chalk or lime. This is prohibited because such materials contain substances that are toxic to health.

Condition of Skin and Hair

An increase in progesterone levels in the blood is characterized by an improvement in skin condition. In some cases, however, the skin may become dry or oily. Any changes are related to alterations in the endocrine system and are not considered signs of diseases. If a pregnant woman develops acne, enlarged pores, or other symptoms of dermatological conditions, she is advised to consult a doctor. A dermatologist will conduct the necessary tests and prescribe treatment. During pregnancy, it is common for skin pigmentation to increase in the abdominal area. This pigmentation typically disappears on its own after childbirth.

Metabolism

By the 11th week of pregnancy, the metabolic rate increases by 15-20%. This is accompanied by a physiological weight gain, which ranges from 1 to 3 kg. If the pregnancy involves twins, the weight gain is between 5-7 kg. The belly is only slightly enlarged, and people around may not notice the pregnancy. It is recommended that the woman monitor her weight gain, as the development of obesity can worsen the prognosis for childbirth and may lead to gestational diabetes.

Changes in the Gastrointestinal Tract

The increase in progesterone levels leads to the relaxation of smooth muscles, which can cause heartburn and constipation in pregnant women at 11 weeks. These conditions do not require treatment unless they pose a health risk to the woman. If there is significant discomfort, the doctor will provide symptomatic treatment.

Development of Twins

The rate of development for twins at 11 weeks is similar to the growth pace of a single fetus. The only difference is a slight reduction in body size. For twins, the length does not exceed 3.9 cm, and the weight is around 12 grams. It's typical for the placenta to mature, or for there to be two separate placentas. The latter is observed in dichorionic twins.

The average weight gain for a woman is 500-700 grams.

Doctors note that starting from the eleventh week of pregnancy, it is recommended to sleep on the left side. Lying on your back can cause compression of blood vessels in the abdominal cavity and disrupt blood circulation. This can lead to hypoxic damage to the baby's nervous system.

Medical Examination

If a woman registers at a prenatal clinic before the 12th week of pregnancy, she may receive a small monetary allowance. When visiting a medical facility, the woman undergoes a comprehensive examination.

Doctors

Gynecologist. The woman will have a scheduled visit with this specialist. Many pregnant women have seen this doctor before, so a follow-up consultation is only conducted if there are any complaints;
Therapist – if there are chronic illnesses or their exacerbation. The specialist examines the overall health condition and, if any diseases are detected, refers the pregnant woman to a "narrow"specialist;
Dentist. Cavities and other oral diseases create a source of infection, from which bacteria and other microorganisms can spread throughout the woman's body. An additional risk is the negative impact of the infection on the developing baby;
Geneticist. Consultation with this specialist is recommended for the pregnant woman and her husband. The specialist determines the risk of hereditary pathologies in the child.

Tests

The first prenatal screening with biochemical tests, often referred to as the "double test."This is conducted at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy and includes: an ultrasound, a blood test to determine levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A). Additionally, progesterone levels are measured. These tests allow for the timely detection of pregnancy complications and the suspicion of hereditary diseases in the baby. For example, an extremely high level of progesterone is characteristic of chromosomal disorders such as Edwards syndrome, Down syndrome, and others.
Complete blood count (CBC) and urinalysis to assess the overall health of the woman.
Biochemical determination of blood glucose levels.
A coagulation test (coagulogram) to evaluate the function of the woman's hemostasis system.
Blood tests for infections: HIV, syphilis, cytomegalovirus, and others.

Procedures

Ultrasound Screening. Conducted for pregnant women at 10 or 11 weeks. The specialist determines if the fetus corresponds to the gestational age and examines the placenta's attachment site. During the ultrasound, several dozen parameters are assessed, such as head circumference or crown-rump length. These measurements help analyze the fetus's condition and detect any developmental abnormalities. Ultrasound also allows for the evaluation of fetal motor activity, heart rate counting, and more;
Measurement of body weight and blood pressure. An increase in both parameters worsens the prognosis for the pregnant woman during the gestation period;
Electrocardiography to assess the condition of the heart muscle.

Pregnancy Challenges

At the 11th week of pregnancy, a woman may develop various pathological conditions.

Ectopic Placement of the Embryo and Chorion

If the embryo is located in the fallopian tube or on the ovary's membranes, it poses a threat to the woman's health and life. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical indication for terminating the pregnancy. This is because the continued growth of the embryo can cause the fallopian tube to rupture and lead to massive bleeding. To detect this pathology, an ultrasound and HCG level determination in the blood are performed. The level of human chorionic gonadotropin is lower than in a normal pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy manifests in a woman as a dull abdominal pain, accompanied by spotting. The risk of this pathology is higher in patients with inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system, a history of abortions, and abnormalities in the structure of the fallopian tubes or uterus.

Endogenous Intoxication

The severity of toxicosis decreases by the 11th week of pregnancy. The frequency of nausea and vomiting reduces, but in the case of a twin pregnancy, the unpleasant symptoms persist. If they become more frequent, it is recommended that the woman consult her doctor.

Pregnancy Termination

The likelihood of a miscarriage at 11 weeks is high. The main causes include developmental abnormalities of the baby, increased uterine muscle tone, autoimmune reactions to the fetus, exacerbations of chronic somatic and infectious diseases, severe injuries, and more. Signs of a miscarriage can include severe lower abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. If these symptoms are detected, it is necessary to call emergency services.

Missed Miscarriage

The highest probability of a missed miscarriage occurs in the first trimester. This condition results in the death of the fetus and a subsequent miscarriage. The primary causes include genetic abnormalities in the embryo, severe illnesses in the woman, and so on. Symptoms of a missed miscarriage include spotting or light bleeding from the vagina, general weakness, fever, cramps, and pulling pain in the pelvic area, as well as a decrease in hCG levels in a blood test. To confirm the diagnosis, an ultrasound of the uterus is performed, during which the absence of a fetal heartbeat is determined. If the condition is confirmed, a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure is indicated, followed by a histological examination of the obtained material. This helps to clarify the causes of the missed miscarriage.

Molar Pregnancy

A rare condition characterized by the underdevelopment of blood vessels in the chorionic villi. Under normal pregnancy conditions, these vessels provide nourishment to the developing fetus, serving as the site for the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between the mother's and baby's blood. The main cause of a molar pregnancy is abnormalities in the fertilization process of the egg. A normal fetus does not develop in this case.

Continued Menstruation

At the 11th week, women may still experience cyclic bloody discharge from the vagina. Continued menstruation is associated with hormonal imbalances and does not pose a threat to the health of the pregnant woman or the baby.

Intrauterine Infections

TORCH infections are a serious concern for pregnant women. This term in medicine encompasses toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes virus pathology. These pathogens, when a woman is acutely infected, can lead to severe developmental defects in the baby and miscarriage. Detecting a TORCH infection during pregnancy is an indication for its termination. To prevent these diseases, it is recommended to get vaccinated when planning for conception and to follow general guidelines for preventing infectious diseases.

What You Can and Can't Do

Pregnancy requires certain lifestyle and dietary changes for a woman. You can learn about these during a consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist.

What an Expectant Mom CAN Do:

Attend prenatal massage and fitness programs. These are designed with the specific needs of a woman's body during this period in mind;
Take daily walks in the fresh air for 2-3 hours. This helps to increase overall physical activity and boost the immune system;

Normalize your daily routine. You should get at least 8 hours of sleep at night. Doctors also recommend a one-hour nap during the day;
Maintain sexual activity. Hormonal changes, including increased progesterone levels, can boost libido. Sexual activity does not have any negative consequences for the woman or the baby. It's important to choose comfortable positions that avoid deep penetration;

Engage in hygiene and cosmetic procedures. Consult with your doctor beforehand. A gynecologist or cosmetologist can help you choose safe cosmetic methods and products that won't cause allergic reactions or intoxication;
Use multivitamin and vitamin-mineral complexes approved by your healthcare provider;

Regularly do Kegel exercises and breathing exercises. These positively impact overall health, strengthen pelvic muscles, and promote proper breathing during labor.
If you have high anxiety levels, drink herbal teas with calming effects. Chamomile, lemon balm, lingonberry, raspberry, and other plants have these properties.

What an expectant mother SHOULD NOT do:

smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, and using drugs. These have been proven to lead to miscarriages and the birth of children with multiple developmental defects;
using medications or dietary supplements without the approval of a gynecologist;
undergoing any radiological examinations, including fluorography and CT scans;
experiencing severe stress;
engaging in intense physical activity, especially weightlifting;
continuing to work in hazardous environments, such as chemical plants, etc.;
visiting saunas or steam baths. High temperatures increase the risk of miscarriage;
having sex if you have an increased uterine tone or are at risk of spontaneous miscarriage;
visiting tattoo parlors or getting permanent makeup. These procedures can lead to the transmission of infectious agents or the introduction of toxic substances into the woman's body;
coming into contact with domestic and wild animals. They can carry various infections, such as toxoplasmosis.

Proper Nutrition

During pregnancy, a woman's nutrition receives special attention. The foods and dishes consumed should contain the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

At the 11th week of pregnancy, it is recommended to:

Maintain proper hydration by drinking 1.5-2 liters of fluids per day. This amount includes regular water, mineral waters, fruit drinks, compote, freshly squeezed juice, herbal and regular teas, broths, and soups. Under no circumstances should you drink 1.5-2 liters of plain water in addition to these fluids. This can lead to increased swelling and high blood pressure;
Limit beverages containing caffeine. These include all types of coffee, black and green tea. The number of cups consumed per day should not exceed 2-3. Caffeine disrupts calcium metabolism in a woman's body and can cause dehydration;

Completely avoid any fast food. Such products contain a large amount of sugar, salt, saturated fatty acids, and food additives. They offer no nutritional benefits. Also, limit the consumption of processed foods, sugary sodas, and the like;
Adopt a fractional eating pattern. It is recommended to have 3 main meals and 2-3 snacks. For snacks, it is recommended to consume fresh fruits or fermented dairy products;

The calorie intake during the 11th week should be around 2200-2500 kcal. If you're pregnant with twins, it should be 2600-2800 kcal per day;
Your diet should include plant-based, dairy, or animal products rich in protein, complex carbohydrates, and unsaturated fatty acids. These are essential for maintaining the health of the woman and the normal intrauterine development of the fetus. It's recommended to eat lean meats and fish, fresh vegetables, fruits, berries, nuts, greens, dried fruits, grains, whole grain pasta, seeds, milk, and dairy products;

Limit the consumption of sweets, salty foods, and baked goods. These are high in simple carbohydrates, which are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, raising glucose and insulin levels. This is a major factor in the development of gestational diabetes. Also, avoid fried, smoked, pickled, and fatty dishes, as they have low nutritional value;
Exclude foods that can cause foodborne illnesses or parasitic infections. This includes raw meat, rare meat, raw fish and seafood, farm eggs, moldy cheeses, unpasteurized milk, and similar items.

Nuts are a unique food for pregnant women. They are rich in protein, complex carbohydrates, and unsaturated fatty acids. These components help the baby's body develop smoothly and prevent birth defects. You can add them to salads and other dishes, or use them as a snack by mixing them with dried apricots and other dried fruits.

Need for Vitamins and Minerals

At the 11th week of pregnancy, various minerals and trace elements are required for the normal development of the baby. They are involved in the development of the nervous system, internal organs, bone mineralization, and metabolism. Additionally, all these substances are beneficial for the pregnant woman as well.

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

is an essential component for the normal development of the nervous system in the baby. It also plays a role in the formation of genetic material (DNA and RNA), the maturation of the placenta, prevents anemia, and supports the immune system. Foods rich in folic acid include beef liver, cod and other fish, greens, green peas, legumes and grains, pasta and whole grain bakery products, yeast, nuts, and dairy products.

Vitamin D (Calciferol)

regulates the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus. Both minerals are necessary for the maturation of bone tissue and the maintenance of normal cardiovascular function. A deficiency in calciferol increases the risk of autoimmune and inflammatory processes, as well as miscarriage. Vitamin D can be found in cod liver, fish, fish oil, liver, eggs, milk, dairy products, hard cheese, butter, corn oil, and various greens.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

It belongs to antioxidants that protect the genetic material of cells and their contents from damage by any adverse factors. Adequate intake of tocopherol in a woman's body prevents miscarriages, thrombosis, and inflammatory diseases. Vitamin E can be found in unrefined vegetable oils, grains, bran, nuts and seeds, tomatoes, greens, meat, egg yolk, milk, and beef liver.

Vitamin K (phylloquinone)

– the main component for the formation of factors that promote blood clotting. In its absence, women develop external and internal bleeding, as well as hemorrhages in soft tissues. Vitamin K is easily obtained with proper nutrition. It is abundant in beef liver and cod liver, seafood, hard cheese, fermented dairy products, and any parts of plants.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

participates in maintaining the integrity of blood vessels, normalizes the immune system, and improves the elimination of toxins from the pregnant woman's body. Its deficiency leads to bleeding gums and anemia. The role of vitamin C in the prevention of placental abruption and miscarriages has been proven. Ascorbic acid is found in citrus fruits, apricots, peaches, rowan berries, black and red currants, cabbage, bell peppers, sorrel, eggplants, fresh cabbage, beef liver and other offal, koumiss, kefir, and soft and hard cheeses.

Calcium

Regulates the formation of bone tissue and teeth in children, and also helps maintain the physiological tone of blood vessels. Adequate intake of this micronutrient through food prevents osteoporosis in women and issues with skin, hair, and nails. Calcium is involved in blood clotting processes and hormone regulation. Its deficiency can exacerbate symptoms of toxicosis. Foods rich in calcium include garlic, cabbage, celery, milk and dairy products, fish, egg whites, poppy seeds, whole grain pasta and bread, berries, soy, and cottage cheese.

Phosphorus

Works together with calcium to improve the condition of teeth and bones. This micronutrient is a crucial part of DNA and RNA, the molecules responsible for storing genetic information in cells and protein synthesis. The highest amounts of phosphorus are found in fish and seafood. Doctors also recommend consuming cottage cheese, cheese, and any greens to get this mineral.

Iodine

The primary mineral that regulates thyroid function and is responsible for the production of its hormones. Without these hormones, children can develop cretinism, and women can experience multiple edemas. Iodine is found in seaweed, sea and river fish, cod liver, and iodized salt.

Iron

Iron is a component of hemoglobin. This is a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. When a woman has an iron deficiency, she develops iron-deficiency anemia. This condition can lead to hypoxic damage to the baby's brain during pregnancy and other negative consequences. Iron can be found in meat and organ meats, fish, cod liver, legumes, buckwheat, oatmeal, cabbage, celery, lettuce, and other greens, apples, pomegranates, and more.

Potassium

Potassium helps maintain a normal water-salt balance and prevents swelling. Thanks to this trace element, fluid moves within the body into the cells. If a woman is deficient in potassium, she may experience cramps, as this mineral helps prevent skeletal muscle spasms. Potassium is found in dried fruits, bananas, berries, vegetables and fruits, nuts, milk, and dairy products.

Zinc

Zinc regulates the immune system, metabolism, and cell reproduction. A deficiency in zinc negatively affects the reproductive organs and the brain. You can get enough zinc from seafood, beef, pork, chicken, plant seeds, spinach, and chocolate.

Magnesium

An essential micronutrient for women and children. It plays a role in metabolism, prevents mutations in genetic material, regulates blood glucose levels, and normalizes blood pressure. Recent studies show that this micronutrient protects brain cells from damaging factors, including stress and insomnia. Finding magnesium in food is not difficult. It is found in regular drinking water, seeds and nuts, legumes, grains, seaweed, cocoa, dates, watermelon, hard cheese, green peas, rye bread, and other whole grain products.

Copper

It is involved in the functioning of the respiratory and hematopoietic systems. A deficiency in the body can disrupt the functions of immune cells, leading to the development of immunodeficiency or autoimmune diseases. Copper-rich foods include apples, apricots, berries, tomatoes, potatoes, legumes, nuts, and sunflower seeds, among others.

Selenium

An important antioxidant that protects genetic material from damage. This micronutrient is involved in the production of thyroid hormones, affecting their levels. Selenium can neutralize toxins, speeding up their elimination from the body. To get enough selenium, it is recommended to eat meat, organ meats, fish and seafood, garlic, grains, and legumes.

Important! Only choose a multivitamin complex based on the recommendation of the doctor managing your pregnancy.

Helpful Tips

In the 11th week and throughout the entire pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid places with large crowds. This helps protect against infectious diseases, which pose a serious threat to the health of the developing baby.

The main task of the future father is to prepare the conditions for the newborn. It's important to plan ahead for the baby's space, purchase the necessary clothing, and get the essential care items. To reduce the psychological burden on the pregnant woman, the father can take on these tasks himself. This improves the family atmosphere and makes it easier for the woman to go through the pregnancy.

Exercises for Expecting Moms

Physical activity is an essential part of life for everyone, including pregnant women. It can be done at any stage of pregnancy, provided there are no medical contraindications. Consulting with a gynecologist or a sports doctor helps in selecting the optimal type of fitness and determining the frequency of workouts.

Breathing exercises and aerobic activities are well-suited for pregnant women. These include Nordic walking, outdoor walks, and swimming. Additionally, Pilates and yoga sessions are conducted. It is important to note that all workouts should be supervised by a specialist. If a pregnant woman experiences dizziness, pain in the lower abdomen, or changes in blood pressure during fitness activities, physical activity should be stopped immediately, and a doctor should be consulted.

Discomforts During Pregnancy

Gas and Bloating. The cause of this symptom is the accumulation of gas in the large intestine, which is linked to increased fermentation processes due to high levels of progesterone. This hormone slows down intestinal motility, leading to food staying in the intestine for a longer period. Gas and bloating don't require special treatment as they don't pose a threat to the health of the woman or the baby.

Stool irregularities like constipation or diarrhea. Both conditions develop against the backdrop of elevated progesterone levels in the blood. This disrupts the motility of both the small and large intestines. Other factors contributing to constipation and diarrhea include: improper hydration, medication intake, low physical activity, and food poisoning. If stool irregularities persist for several days, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Heartburn occurs when stomach contents are refluxed into the esophagus. Stomach acid irritates the mucous membrane, causing discomfort for the woman. Heartburn develops due to the malfunction of the cardiac sphincter, located between the esophagus and the stomach, which is associated with increased production of progesterone. The woman experiences discomfort and pain behind the breastbone, which intensifies after eating, physical activity, and prolonged horizontal positioning of the body. Special treatment is not required. Fractional meals and the use of antacid medications as prescribed by a doctor relieve the pregnant woman from unpleasant sensations.

Acute infectious diseases, which may be mild for the woman, can lead to severe developmental defects in the child or miscarriage. In pregnant women, these illnesses are characterized by the appearance of a runny nose, cough, and slight fever. In case of an infectious pathology, one should immediately consult a doctor. The specialist will conduct the necessary examination and select a therapy to eliminate the pathogen and alleviate the patient's condition. Self-medication is unacceptable, as many medications are contraindicated during pregnancy, and infectious pathology can progress rapidly.

Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) develops against the backdrop of a slight immune deficiency, which is common in pregnant women. The disease is associated with fungal microorganisms of the Candida genus. These fungi are present in small amounts in the normal vaginal flora of any woman. However, an immune-deficient state, hormonal changes, and hypothermia can trigger their rapid multiplication, leading to a yeast infection. Candidiasis manifests as the appearance of cottage cheese-like discharge with an unpleasant sour smell. This is accompanied by itching and burning in the external genital area. When antifungal medications are prescribed by a gynecologist, the yeast infection clears up without a trace.

Cystitis can occur at any stage of pregnancy. The main cause of its onset is the increase in residual urine volume in the bladder due to the organ being compressed by the enlarging uterus. Bacterial microorganisms begin to actively multiply in the urine, causing characteristic symptoms of the disease: frequent urination accompanied by sharp pain and burning. If a viral infection joins the bacteria, blood may appear in the urine. The disease requires comprehensive treatment using antibiotics or antiviral medications. If it progresses, chronic cystitis or pyelonephritis with severe symptoms can develop.

Lower back pain. An increase in body weight and the size of the uterus leads to a shift in the center of gravity and redistributes weight onto the woman's musculoskeletal system. As a result, a pregnant woman at the 11th week may experience discomfort and pain in the lower back. These are not signs of any disease, but it is recommended that the woman consult a doctor. The specialist will rule out osteochondrosis and other spinal diseases, and if necessary, will prescribe therapy.

Varicose veins affecting the lower extremities are observed in every third pregnant woman at the 11th week. The condition is associated with an increase in blood volume and swelling that occurs due to high levels of progesterone. To prevent the progression of varicose veins, all pregnant women are advised to use compression stockings. These should be selected by a doctor.

Checklist

Register at a prenatal clinic and visit an OB-GYN;
Eliminate any harmful habits – smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs;

Learn the principles of healthy eating and stick to them;
Normalize your sleep and wake schedule. Get at least 8 hours of sleep at night, supplemented by an hour of daytime sleep. Regularly spend time outdoors;

Follow infection prevention principles, such as avoiding hypothermia and contact with sick individuals;
Switch to hypoallergenic cosmetics and household products;

Wear comfortable clothing made from breathable fabrics;
If you suspect any illnesses, immediately consult your OB-GYN. The specialist will conduct an examination and additional tests, and if necessary, prescribe treatment;

Use orthopedic shoes. High heels are prohibited as they add extra strain on the spine;
Regularly weigh yourself to monitor body weight. One measurement per week in the morning on an empty stomach in light pajamas is sufficient. Record the results in a special notebook;

Use skincare products to prevent stretch marks;
Follow the advice of your obstetrician-gynecologist throughout your pregnancy and in preparation for childbirth;

study specialized literature for parents.

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