You are 11 weeks and 3 days

Is your skin as spotty as it was in your teens? Don't worry, it's the hormones again, and it will pass.

200 days until your due date

Your skin is likely to change in pregnancy. Some women get spots or acne because of high progesterone levels, while others get dry skin, also caused by hormones, which can be worse on your belly as the skin stretches.

Freckles and moles may darken. You may also notice tiny red lines on your chest or legs, called spider nevi, caused by extra blood flow to the skin making the vessels widen and show.

Other women find high estrogen levels make their skin better than before. The pregnancy "glow" comes from the increased blood supply, which gives you a rosy, healthy complexion.

Ask a Doctor

Since the scan, my partner has become very overprotective. Is this normal?

Your partner is realizing his responsibilities and his feelings for the baby, and showing it by looking after you. If the pampering is a bit much, talk about other ways he can be involved and prepare for the baby. Try to welcome his enthusiasm; it's a great way to strengthen your relationship and prepare for parenthood together.

Explainer

Dry skin

Your skin may become dry and flaky on your face and elsewhere. A good moisturizer should help.

Time to think about

Telling your employer

Once your employer knows you're pregnant, you're protected by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, which says pregnant employees must be treated the same as other employees with disabilities or limitations. Most parents-to-be wait until 12 weeks, when the risk of miscarriage is lower, and some wait longer.

Every company has its own maternity leave policy. Some offer paid or unpaid leave for a set period, while others let you use sick leave or vacation days. Meet with human resources to find out your options.
You can discuss when your leave will start. If your baby comes early or you have to start leave early because of illness, arrangements can be changed at short notice.
Your employer should respect your confidentiality. If you want the news kept quiet until a certain date, say so.

This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.

Since the scan, my partner has become very overprotective. Is this normal?

Dry skin

Telling your employer

Appointments and key dates around now