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9 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby, Your Body and What to Do
Your baby's heart now has four chambers and the face is becoming recognisable.
Before you use this guide: Pregnancy weeks are counted from the first day of your last period. Sizes are rough averages, and healthy babies vary. This is general information, not an individual medical assessment, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor or midwife.
How your baby is growing
The heart has developed its chambers and valves and beats much faster than yours, often around 150 to 170 beats a minute. The face is more distinct, with eyelids, the tip of the nose and the upper lip, and tiny ears are forming.
Hands and feet are developing, and the elbows and wrists can be made out. Bones and cartilage are starting to form. The head is still large, making up about half of your baby's length.
How you may be feeling
Your womb is about the size of a grapefruit, so you may feel pressure or mild cramps. Sickness, food aversions, extra saliva and wind are still common. Many people feel moody or tearful, and tiredness can be stronger than you expect.
Your to-do list for week 9
- Write down questions for your first appointment, including your health history, medicines, family history and any worries about your mood.
- Get fresh air and gentle movement when you can. A short walk often eases nausea.
- Eat little and often, and keep something plain by the bed for the morning.
- Talk to your employer about adjustments if you are struggling with sickness or tiredness.
When to ask for help
Low mood, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed can start in pregnancy as well as after the birth. Tell your midwife or doctor how you are feeling. Support is available, and asking early helps.
For heavy bleeding, severe pain, fluid leaking, a severe headache with vision changes, or a baby who is moving less than usual, do not wait for your next appointment. Contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. Our guide to pregnancy warning signs has more detail.
Not sure which week you are in? Use the due-date calculator to estimate your due date and current week.
Useful at this stage: conception date calculator.
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- NHS: Pregnancy — Pregnancy care, common symptoms, screening and complications.
- NHS: Week-by-week pregnancy guide — Pregnancy development and care by week.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.