Week by week pregnancy calendar

11 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy week 11 in which you near the end of your first trimester and your baby starts sucking her thumb

Two months into pregnancy the embryo is about 2.5cm (around 1 in) long

Your body

You may now be gaining weight - it is not unusual to put on 2-3lb (approximately 10 per cent of your total weight gain) by the end of the first trimester. This is normal - now is not the time to start a diet!

What's happening to your uterus?

Your uterus (womb) is beginning to rise into the abdominal cavity and your midwife or doctor can feel the top of it above the brim of your pelvis. As your baby grows your uterus loses it usual position and becomes erect, and maybe slightly tilted to the right.

Backbreaking work

Carrying a baby is hard work and you may already be getting backache. Your ligaments are softening because of your hormones and it is easier to strain yourself, so take it easy. Try to avoid lifting heavy objects. If you do have to pick up something, don't bend your back, but bend your knees first and get a good hold before standing up again.

Feeling constipated?

It's not unusual to be constipated during pregnancy. You are retaining more water so your stools are harder to pass out, but also hormones relax the intestines and bowel, making them less efficient. Make sure you eat lots of fruit and vegetables, wholegrains and drink plenty of water.

Next page: How much your baby has grown...