9 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week nine

You are now nine weeks into your pregnancy – so what's happening with you and your baby now?

Your baby at week nine

As you enter week 9 your baby will transition from the embryonic stage to the foetal period. At this point they’ll be about one inch long and the size of a large bean or olive.

Your baby's organs, nerves and muscles are all starting to function now and although you won’t be able to feel it, their tiny heart is now beating strong enough to be picked up by ultrasound devices like a Doppler, although this isn’t always possible depending on the position of your baby in the uterus.

Their ears are also starting to develop, and their eyelids are now in place but will be fused shut until week 26. Meanwhile their little fingers and toes are starting to change from being titchy buds into actual digits.

You at nine weeks pregnant

By week nine, you might be finding your waistbands are getting a bit uncomfortable, even if you don't have a proper 'bump' on board! If you are still having waves of nausea at certain times of the day, the last thing you want is restrictive clothing around your tum, so go for stretchy, breathable fabric whenever possible, and make leggings, or jeggings and longer tops your friend!
You might also be finding your bras are getting a bit tight as your breasts increase in size – although you probably won't want or need a maternity bra just yet, it might be an idea to get measured for some well fitting and comfortable bras to see you through this transitional stage.
Your first appointment with your midwife is probably happening in the next few days or weeks – have you got a list of questions for her, or any niggles or concerns you want to flag up? Why not connect with other mums on our community boards to share experiences of these early weeks?

What to think about in week nine

Although you might not be telling the world at large your happy news just yet, you might be thinking about the impact your pregnancy could already be having on your working day - are you feeling tired, or a bit emotional, or lacking in concentration just now?
It might be an idea to speak to your HR department or line manager if you feel that you are struggling a little at work, even if you aren't planning on telling anyone else before your dating scan. Once your bosses know you are pregnant, they have a duty of care towards you - have a read of our pages on your maternity rights for more information.