Key Milestone Weeks in Pregnancy: First Trimester (3-13 Weeks)

Yes, it’s completely normal to still have morning sickness at 10 weeks pregnant as the symptom typically occurs during the first trimester, between weeks 6 and 14. For many people, this is when symptoms like nausea and vomiting are at their peak. While it’s called “morning” sickness, it can happen at any time of day. It is unusual to experience morning sickness for the first time after week 10, so if symptoms begin suddenly at this stage, it is a good idea to check in with your doctor to rule out other causes. If your symptoms are severe or you are struggling to keep food or fluids down, it might be a sign of a more serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires medical attention. 1

At around 10 weeks pregnant, you might be offered a few important tests as part of your routine antenatal care. These check on both your health and your baby’s development: 

• Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): A blood test that screens for chromosomal conditions like Down Syndrome. It can also reveal your baby’s sex if you wish to know.
• First Trimester Combined Screening: This includes a blood test (usually done between 10–12 weeks) and an ultrasound (typically between 11–13 weeks) to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
• Routine Blood Tests: These check your blood group, iron levels, immunity to infections like rubella, and screen for conditions such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis.
• Urine Test: To detect urinary tract infections or other abnormalities.
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Screening: Some providers may also check in on your emotional health and social support during this time.

These tests are optional, and your doctor or midwife will guide you through what is recommended based on your personal health and pregnancy history.

At 10 weeks pregnant, it is normal not to have a visible baby bump yet, especially if this is your first pregnancy. While your uterus is growing and your baby is developing rapidly, most people don’t show a noticeable bump until around 12 to 16 weeks. At 10 weeks, your uterus is still tucked within your pelvis, so any changes in your belly are usually subtle, like slight bloating or a feeling of fullness. You might notice:

• A slightly rounder lower abdomen, especially by the end of the day.
• Bloating due to hormonal changes.
• Tightness in your clothes, even if there’s no visible bump yet.

If this is your second or later pregnancy, you might start to show a little earlier, sometimes around 10 weeks, because your abdominal muscles have stretched before.1

A balanced diet including lean proteins, iron-rich foods, whole grains, leafy greens, and vitamin D sources is essential. Folic acid remains important, and staying hydrated helps ease constipation.

Yes, gentle, regular exercise like walking, prenatal yoga, and swimming is safe for most people unless advised otherwise. Avoid high-impact sports or activities that risk abdominal trauma.

You may be able to hear the heartbeat with a Doppler at a GP visit around this time, although success varies. An ultrasound may clearly show the heartbeat by now.

The latest guidelines and care principles for early pregnancy include: 

• Early antenatal visits: Are encouraged to confirm the pregnancy, estimate gestational age, and begin discussions about lifestyle, nutrition, and mental health.

• Folic acid supplementation: Strongly recommended to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, which are forming around week 5 of pregnancy.
• Screening for risk factors: This includes assessing for miscarriage risk, preeclampsia, and mental health concerns like anxiety or depression.
• Lifestyle guidance: Advice on avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and certain medications is emphasised early on, along with support for healthy eating and physical activity.
• Cultural and individualised care: The guidelines stress the importance of woman-centred care, especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, migrants, and those with complex needs.