Week 14: Your Baby is the Size of a Nectarine
Many women experience a welcome energy boost as the second trimester begins. Your bump is becoming more noticeable, and you might need to start wearing maternity clothes. Appetite usually increases as nausea subsides.
Your baby at week 14
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Size of a Nectarine
Baby Development
Welcome to the second trimester! The baby's facial muscles are developing, allowing for squinting, frowning, and grimacing. Fine, downy hair called lanugo is starting to cover the body to help regulate temperature. The liver is beginning to produce bile, and the spleen is helping to produce red blood cells. The baby may be sucking their thumb.
Week 14 Highlight: Your baby can now make facial expressions - they can squint, frown, and even grimace!
Common Symptoms
Tips for Week 14
This is a great time for gentle exercise - try prenatal yoga or swimming.
Eat iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, and beans to prevent anaemia.
Use saline nasal spray for pregnancy-related congestion.
Consider dental check-up - pregnancy hormones can affect gum health.
South Africa Specific Info
In South Africa, iron and folic acid supplements are provided free at public antenatal clinics. Anaemia is common in pregnancy and is routinely screened for. If you are Rhesus negative, your healthcare provider will discuss anti-D immunoglobulin injections with you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Due Date Calculator SA Editorial Team
Our content is reviewed by healthcare professionals familiar with South African maternal health practices. We combine evidence-based medical information with local knowledge to support South African mums throughout their pregnancy journey. Our team includes contributors with backgrounds in midwifery, obstetrics, and maternal health education.
Last reviewed: February 2026