Week 14
Your baby is the size of a lemon
What's happening this week
Your baby is now the size of a lemon — about 3.4 inches (87mm) from crown to rump — and this week, the details are getting finer and more human by the day.
The neck has become clearly defined, allowing your baby's head to sit more upright rather than tucked against the chest. The skin is starting to thicken, and fine, downy hair called lanugo is beginning to cover your baby's body. This soft fuzz helps regulate temperature and will mostly disappear before birth, though some babies are born with traces of it on their shoulders and back.
Here's something that might make you smile: your baby can now make facial expressions. The facial muscles are developed enough for squinting, frowning, and even grimacing — though these are reflexive movements, not responses to emotion. Still, the idea that your baby is practicing expressions is endearing.
Your baby's external genitalia are now fully formed, which means their sex could potentially be visible on ultrasound — though most providers wait until the anatomy scan around week 20 for a more reliable determination. Internally, the reproductive system continues to develop.
The roof of the mouth (palate) is fully formed. Your baby can bring their fingers to their mouth and may even practice sucking motions — an early rehearsal for feeding after birth. The arms have grown to a more proportional length relative to the body, though the legs are still catching up.
Hearing is beginning to develop. While your baby can't hear distinct sounds yet, the inner ear structures that will eventually process sound are taking shape.
Your body this week
The second trimester energy boost is in full swing for many people, and you might be feeling better than you have in weeks. Appetite is back, energy is up, and the constant haze of first-trimester fatigue may be lifting.
Your bump is growing, and you may notice that it's most visible at the end of the day when bloating adds to the mix. First-time parents often show later than those who've been pregnant before, because the abdominal muscles haven't been stretched yet.
You might notice skin changes this week: darkening of the areolas, the linea nigra becoming more visible, and possibly the beginning of the 'mask of pregnancy' (melasma) — brown patches on the forehead, cheeks, or upper lip caused by increased melanin. Sun exposure can make melasma worse, so wearing sunscreen daily is a good habit to start.
Breast changes continue: they're likely larger than before pregnancy, and the veins may be more visible. Some people notice small bumps on the areolas (Montgomery tubercles) — these are oil glands that help keep the nipples moisturized and will play a role in breastfeeding.
If you haven't had your second prenatal visit yet, it's likely coming up. This visit usually includes a weight check, blood pressure, urine test, and measuring your uterine growth. Your provider will also discuss upcoming screening tests and the anatomy scan.
One practical tip: start sleeping on your side if you haven't already. As your uterus grows, side sleeping (especially left side) helps optimize blood flow to the placenta.
For dads
You're in the second trimester now, and the contrast with the first can be dramatic. Your partner may have more energy, a better mood, and an actual appetite. This is the window where you can start doing things together that felt impossible a month ago — go out to dinner, take a weekend trip, or just enjoy a normal evening without nausea dominating the schedule. Take advantage of this stretch, because the third trimester brings its own challenges. This is also a good time to start talking about money. A baby changes your financial picture: health insurance coverage for delivery, potential changes in income during parental leave, the cost of childcare. Having these conversations now, while things are calm, is much better than scrambling in the third trimester.
If you're planning to find out the baby's sex, the anatomy scan is coming up around week 20. Start thinking about whether you want to know, and how you want to find out — in the ultrasound room, via a sealed envelope, at a reveal event, or privately at home. If you and your partner disagree on whether to find out, work it out now rather than in the middle of the appointment. This should be a fun decision, not a stressful one.
Common concerns
Is it normal for my bump to look different sizes at different times of day?+
Completely normal. Most people find their bump looks smallest in the morning and largest in the evening. This is because bloating and gas accumulate throughout the day, adding to the appearance of your bump. Food, water retention, and your baby's position all affect how your belly looks at any given moment. The size of your bump is not an indicator of your baby's health — that's what ultrasounds and measurements are for.
What is lanugo and will my baby still have it at birth?+
Lanugo is fine, downy hair that covers your baby's body starting around week 14. It helps regulate temperature and hold a protective coating called vernix on the skin. Most lanugo sheds before birth, but some babies — especially those born early — may still have traces on their shoulders, back, or ears. It's completely normal and falls off on its own within a few weeks after birth.
Can my baby hear me already?+
Not quite yet — at week 14, the inner ear structures are forming but aren't functional. Your baby will begin to respond to sound around weeks 18-22, starting with lower-frequency sounds like your heartbeat and voice. By the third trimester, your baby will recognize your voice and may respond to music or loud noises with movement. So keep talking — they'll hear you soon.
Should I be worried about skin changes during pregnancy?+
Skin changes like darkening of the areolas, linea nigra, and melasma are extremely common and caused by the increase in melanin production during pregnancy. They're harmless and typically fade after delivery. Wearing SPF 30 or higher daily can help prevent melasma from worsening. If you notice any new or rapidly changing moles, mention them to your provider — but most pregnancy-related skin changes are cosmetic and temporary.
Product picks for week 14
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Mineral sunscreen SPF 30+
Melasma and skin darkening are common now — daily mineral sunscreen protects against worsening and is safe during pregnancy.
Side sleeper pregnancy wedge
A compact wedge pillow supports your belly and hips for comfortable side sleeping without taking over the whole bed.
Bump-friendly workout leggings
Your regular workout clothes may not fit anymore — stretchy, high-waisted maternity leggings keep you comfortable during exercise.
A quick note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns. Learn how we create our content.
Content based on guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Mayo Clinic, and peer-reviewed medical literature. Learn more about how we create our content.