From morning sickness in week 6 to your first kicks in the second trimester — a complete 40-week guide for Canadian parents.
The first trimester is the most critical period of fetal development. By week 6, your baby has a heartbeat. By week 10, all major organs have begun forming. Week 12 marks the end of the highest-risk period for miscarriage.
Common first trimester symptoms include morning sickness (which can happen at any time of day), extreme fatigue, breast tenderness, and frequent urination. In Canada, your first prenatal appointment is recommended as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, typically between weeks 8 and 10.
Most women find the second trimester the most comfortable. Morning sickness typically eases, energy returns, and the baby bump becomes visible. Between weeks 18 and 22, you will have your anatomy ultrasound — one of the most exciting appointments of pregnancy.
Around weeks 18 to 22, you may feel your first fetal movements — called quickening. First-time mothers often describe it as bubbles or fluttering. By week 24, the baby is considered viable outside the womb.
The third trimester brings rapid growth as the baby gains most of their weight. You may experience back pain, shortness of breath, and Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions). Sleep becomes more difficult as the baby grows larger.
In Canada, prenatal visits increase to every two weeks from week 28, then weekly from week 36. Your doctor or midwife will check the baby's position and monitor for signs of labour.
Your Expected Due Date (EDD) is calculated by adding 280 days (40 weeks) to the first day of your last menstrual period. This is called Naegele's Rule and is the standard method used by Canadian healthcare providers.
However, an ultrasound performed between 8 and 12 weeks is the most accurate way to confirm your due date, as it measures the baby's size directly. Your doctor will use this ultrasound date if it differs by more than 7 days from the LMP calculation.
Canada has one of the most generous parental leave systems in the world. Understanding your benefits can make a significant financial difference during this exciting time.
Through Employment Insurance (EI), eligible Canadian parents can receive maternity and parental benefits for up to 78 weeks combined. The benefit amount is 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings up to a maximum insurable amount of $63,200 — meaning the maximum weekly benefit is $668 in 2026.
Q: How accurate is the pregnancy due date calculator?
A: Due date calculators estimate your expected delivery date based on a standard 40-week pregnancy from your last menstrual period. Only about 5% of babies are born exactly on their due date — most arrive within 2 weeks before or after. Your healthcare provider may adjust your due date after an ultrasound measurement in the first trimester.
Q: What is the difference between gestational age and fetal age in Canada?
A: Gestational age counts from the first day of your last menstrual period and is the standard used by Canadian healthcare providers. Fetal age counts from conception and is typically 2 weeks less than gestational age. When your doctor says you are 10 weeks pregnant, that is gestational age.
Q: When should I apply for EI maternity benefits in Canada?
A: You can apply for EI maternity benefits up to 12 weeks before your expected due date. Service Canada recommends applying as soon as you stop working. There is a standard 1-week waiting period before benefits begin, so applying early ensures no gap in income.
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