Week 13: Vocal Cords & Fingerprints
Baby is about the size of Lemon (74mm crown-rump)
Your baby's vocal cords are forming this week, laying the groundwork for that first cry. Unique fingerprints are beginning to develop on tiny fingertips. The intestines, which grew so rapidly they temporarily herniated into the umbilical cord, are now migrating back into the abdominal cavity. The head is becoming more proportional to the body, and the fetus can make sucking movements.
The placenta is now fully functional, taking over hormone production from the corpus luteum. Many women notice a welcome energy rebound as first-trimester fatigue begins to lift. The uterus is rising out of the pelvis, and you may notice your waistline expanding. Breast tenderness may ease slightly.
What is important now
The first trimester is ending — congratulations! If you haven't had your NT scan yet, the window closes at 13+6. In Denmark, the first midwife consultation is available between weeks 13-15. Consider sharing your news with a wider circle if you've been waiting.
Common symptoms
- heavy vaginal bleeding — emergency services
- severe abdominal pain — contact provider immediately
Wellness this week.
Nutrition
Second trimester transition
- Increase caloric intake by ~340 kcal/day starting now
- Calcium-rich foods (dairy, fortified plant milk, leafy greens)
- Continue iron-rich foods as blood volume expands
- Omega-3 DHA from low-mercury fish or supplements
Exercise
Movement
Great time to establish a consistent routine as energy returns
Sleep
7-9 hours
Position: Side sleeping recommended; left side optimal for blood flow
· A body pillow can help you stay on your side comfortably
· Elevate head slightly if nasal congestion is bothersome
Mental wellness
Mindfulness
The second trimester is often called the 'honeymoon phase.' Allow yourself to enjoy the renewed energy.
“Your baby's fingerprints are forming — completely unique, just like them.”
Your timeline.
Week 6
7 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — Mutterpass may be issued upon heartbeat confirmation
Week 19
In 6 weeks- routineWeeks 19–22
Checkpoint 2 — Screening Ultrasound
Choice between a basic biometric scan or detailed organ scan. Measures head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and checks placental position.
GoalAssess fetal anatomy and growth, check for structural abnormalities, and verify placental location.
Week 28
In 15 weeks- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM screening
- routine
Checkpoint 2 — Rhogam if Rh-negative
Week 29
In 16 weeks- routineWeeks 29–32
Checkpoint 3 — Screening Ultrasound
Third and final routine ultrasound. Assesses fetal growth, position (cephalic/breech), amniotic fluid volume, and placental function.
GoalConfirm appropriate growth trajectory and baby's position for delivery planning.
Week 35
In 22 weeks- self pay igelWeeks 35–37
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Testing — Self-pay/IGeL
Rectovaginal swab to screen for Group B Streptococcus colonization. If positive, IV antibiotics are given during labor to prevent neonatal infection.
GoalIdentify GBS carriers to enable prophylactic treatment during delivery.
Safety: If you haven't completed first-trimester screening, speak with your provider about timing. Always report heavy bleeding or severe pain promptly.
Your journey, your rhythm.
Track your pregnancy week by week with gentle, personalized guidance.