10 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Baby Development and Expert Tips

When you're 10 weeks pregnant, you're officially in double digits—and nearing the end of your first trimester. Your baby is growing fast, your hormones are working overtime, and your body is going through all sorts of changes to keep up. This week is a big milestone: your baby is no longer an embryo, but a fetus. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s happening inside you and how to care for yourself.

Fetal Development

At 10 weeks pregnant, your baby is now about the size of a strawberry—around 3.1 cm (1.2 inches) long, weighing about 4 grams. Vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and intestines are developing rapidly. The stomach is starting to produce digestive juices, and the kidneys are starting to produce urine.

Fingers and toes at this stage are no longer webbed, and the baby can now bend their arms and legs. According the American Pregnancy Association, tiny nails are forming, too! You won’t feel it yet, but they’re wriggling around in there!

The outline of a nose, mouth, and ears is now also visible, and tooth buds are forming under the gums. Most exciting of all, the heart is fully formed and beating at 170–180 beats per minute—twice as fast as yours. All this fetal development is happening quickly, setting the stage for big growth in the weeks ahead.

Physical Changes and Symptoms in Your Body

Hormonal changes drive most of the 10 weeks pregnant symptoms. You may feel more tired, nauseous, and your breasts may feel sore. Many moms also experience heartburn, headaches, increased vaginal discharge, acne, and back pain. These symptoms stem from hormone fluctuations and your growing uterus.

To manage them, rest often, eat small and frequent meals, stay hydrated, and try light exercise or warm compresses for aches and pains. Nausea at 10 weeks pregnant can still be frustrating, but it’s a sign that your hormones are doing their job says a study from the Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health.

And don’t worry if your 10 weeks pregnant bump is barely there—belly shape varies widely at this stage. Some people see a small 10 weeks pregnant belly, while others won’t notice a bump for several more weeks.

Nutrition and Diet for 10 Weeks Pregnant

Wondering what to eat at 10 weeks pregnant? Stick to balanced, nutrient-dense meals!

Now is the time to be mindful of what to eat at 10 weeks pregnant—your baby is getting nutrients directly from you. Focus on good eating habits that include foods rich in folic acid, iron, calcium, and omega-3s. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, red meat, tofu, dairy, fish like salmon, and fortified cereals are all good choices.

At the same time, avoid alcohol, unpasteurized dairy, raw or undercooked meat or fish, and high-mercury seafood such as swordfish or king mackerel. Also, a study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition recommends drinking at least 8–10 glasses of water a day to support your increased blood volume and amniotic fluid.

Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

To stay in tip-top shape, remember the basics: get enough rest, move your body regularly (with your doctor’s approval), take your prenatal vitamins, avoid smoking and alcohol. Find ways to manage stress—whether that’s journaling, walking, or simply talking to someone you trust. Create a calm and nourishing environment around feeding time, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.

Other handy tips:

•    Wear a maternity bra to ease discomfort and provide extra support.
•    Start a pregnancy journal to track symptoms, questions for your OB...and memories.
•    Avoid strong smells that trigger nausea—opt for lemon, ginger, or peppermint instead.
•    Try prenatal yoga or gentle stretching, which can ease tension and improve circulation.
•    Use a humidifier if you're experiencing nasal congestion (a common first-trimester symptom).
•    Get more fiber in if you’re feeling constipated—try oatmeal, fruit, or beans.
•    Check your skincare products for non-pregnancy friendly ingredient (like retinoids).

Your Doctor’s Appointment

Make sure to book a schedule with your doctor to check your overall health.

Around 10 weeks, you’ll likely have a prenatal appointment if you haven’t already. Your doctor may check your weight, blood pressure, and do a urine test to screen for protein and sugar. A blood test might be ordered to check your iron levels, Rh factor, and immunity to infections. You may also get to hear your baby’s heartbeat for the first time using a Doppler.

If you’re considering early screening for chromosomal conditions, this is a good time to discuss those options. And if you haven’t had your first ultrasound, your doctor may schedule one soon to confirm your due date and check on your baby’s growth, notes the International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics.

As you wrap up the first trimester at 10 weeks pregnant, give yourself credit for how far you’ve come. The tenth week is a time of growth, reassurance, and small wins that pave the way for a stronger pregnancy journey. Listen to your body, keep nourishing yourself and your baby, and remember—you're doing an amazing job.