When do you start showing in pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also bring uncertainty, especially if you're expecting your first baby, and pretty early on you may start to wonder when your bump will begin to show.  

While every pregnancy experience is unique, some common factors can influence when you start showing. In this blog, we'll learn more about the factors that can impact when you start to show during pregnancy and provide some helpful tips for anyone who's navigating this exciting time.

When in pregnancy do you start showing?

Usually, pregnant people notice their bump is starting to show long before others notice, and every pregnant person is different. Some people have very large bumps very early, others don’t, and some taller people don’t look pregnant until right near the third trimester! 

Some people start showing as early as eight weeks, but typically, pregnant people will notice a small bump appear at around 12 to 13 weeks (as their first trimester comes to an end). Baby is typically around the size of a plum at this stage.

However, other people notice their bump show between weeks 16 and 20. The uterus is usually level with the belly button at 20 weeks, so this is when you ‘pop’ and get a recognisable baby bump. 

Yes, you may show a little sooner with a second pregnancy. This is because your first pregnancy stretched your abdominal and uterine muscles and prepared your body for what's to come.

But again, it varies from one pregnancy to the next – no two bumps are the same!

If you have multiple babies does your bump show sooner?

There's no set timeline for when your baby bump will appear, but people who're expecting multiples (twins, triplets or more) sometimes start showing as early as six weeks into their pregnancy.

Remember, the only way to know for sure if you're expecting multiple babies is to have an ultrasound.

What can impact the size of your bump during pregnancy?

As we've covered, no two pregnancies look or feel the same, and there are lots of factors that can affect when your bump starts to show. Including if:

• You have strong abdominal muscles: If your abs are well-defined, your baby bump may not show until later in your pregnancy due to your uterus being concealed by your abdominal muscles. If your stomach muscles aren't as strong, you may show your pregnancy earlier.
• You have separated tummy muscles: Diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles, and this can make a bump more visible earlier on. This is normal and common for people who've been pregnant before (especially if they've carried big babies) or who are over 35 years old. 
• You're expecting multiples: More babies, bigger bump, maybe earlier.
• You've had previous pregnancies: You may show earlier if this isn't your first pregnancy.
• Your uterus points forward: The angle of the uterus can influence your bump. If your uterus is retroverted (tilts towards the back), you mightn't notice a baby bump until later. But if you have an anteverted uterus (which slants forwards), you may show earlier.
• You're bloated: Your baby bump may appear more pronounced due to bloating – a common symptom of early pregnancy. Added weight and pressure of a growing baby can slow down digestion and lead to an increase in gas buildup.
• You naturally carry weight around your stomach: Every person carries weight differently and there’s not just one belly shape for everyone! People who carry more weight around their midsection sometimes notice that their belly is shaped like a B at first, rather than a D. Rest assured that a B-shaped bump is common and not a cause for concern.

When to get help if you’re worried about how much your pregnancy showing

It can be tempting to compare the size of your bump, and when it appears, to other pregnant people (think researching images of pregnancy or standing in front of the mirror inspecting your belly) but try to remember that as long as your doctor has no concerns and your baby is growing healthily, the size of your bump – whether large or small – doesn’t matter.

If you are concerned about the size of your bump or worried about weight gain during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your GP or midwife. They will be able to measure you and rule out any complications.

Sources

• When will I look pregnant? - BabyCenter Australia