11 weeks pregnant

Preparing to grow

Measuring between 4 and 5cm by the time you’re 11 weeks pregnant, your baby is still very small. However, they’re growing and developing rapidly, with all of the bones of the face now in place, fingers and toes separating from their webbed beginnings and ear buds starting to take on a more familiar ear shape.

Internally, their brain, lungs, liver and kidneys have formed by 11 weeks, but the various body systems will continue to develop throughout pregnancy.

Although your baby has already been making jerky movements for some time, you’re unlikely to feel any kicks until around 17–18 weeks, or later if this is your first pregnancy.

Calcium: Building strong bones and teeth for life

Calcium is essential for the normal development of your baby’s bones: it supports the health of your own bones and teeth too.

Most easily absorbed from milk sources, calcium has several other important roles:

• It regulates muscle contractions, including your baby's heartbeat
• It helps blood clot normally
• It contributes to the healthy functioning of muscle tissue and nerves

The recommended daily amount during pregnancy is 1200mg per day, all of which should be obtainable from a normal, balanced diet.