Looking Ahead: Weekly Checkpoints
Planning ahead makes the journey smoother, whether it’s scheduling ultrasound scans, preparing for antenatal appointments or marking your maternity leave dates. Here’s what you can expect:
- 16 weeks pregnant – You’ll likely be well into your second trimester and many mums begin to feel their baby’s first movements.
- 36 weeks in months – At just over 8 months pregnant, you’re approaching full term.
- 39 weeks in months – Around 9 months pregnant, your baby is nearly ready to be born.
Early Pregnancy Scans
Scans play an important role in confirming your pregnancy, checking baby’s growth and providing reassurance. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 6 week scan – This early ultrasound can sometimes detect a heartbeat and confirm if it’s a single or multiple pregnancy.
- 7 week scan – Used to check embryo growth and location, especially in early or IVF pregnancies.
- Seven week scan – The same as a 7-week scan, but often referred to differently in medical notes.
Each of these early scans helps determine how far along you are and whether your baby’s development is on track.
Entering the Third Trimester
Understanding when trimester changes occur is key for planning antenatal care and preparing for labour.
- When does the third trimester start? It begins at 28 weeks pregnant.
- When does the 3rd trimester begin? The start of week 28 marks the final stage of pregnancy.
During this time, many women notice increased tiredness, more noticeable baby movements and physical changes as the body prepares for birth.
Physical Changes: The Pregnant Belly
One of the most visible pregnancy milestones is the growth of your pregnant belly. Every woman shows differently:
- By 16–20 weeks pregnant, most people begin to show a visible bump
- By the third trimester, the belly is rounder, firmer and more pronounced as the baby grows rapidly.
FAQs on Pregnancy Milestones
Q1: How many weeks are in a trimester?
Each trimester lasts around 12–14 weeks. The first trimester is from weeks 1–12, the second from 13–27 and the third from 28 until birth.
Q2: When do you start showing a baby bump?
Most women start showing between 16–20 weeks, though it can happen earlier or later depending on body type and pregnancy
Q3: Is a 6 week scan internal or external?
Most 6 week scans are done internally (transvaginal) for clearer results but some clinics may use abdominal scans if visibility is good.
Q4: What happens at 36 weeks pregnant?
At 36 weeks, you’re over 8 months pregnant. Your baby is usually in position for birth and you may experience Braxton Hicks contractions.
Q5: When is full term in pregnancy?
Pregnancy is considered full term at 39 weeks but babies born anytime between 37–42 weeks are generally healthy.