First trimester · weeks 1-13
The first trimester is a time of extraordinary, invisible change. From a tiny cluster of cells, your baby develops a beating heart, the beginnings of a brain, and the first hints of arms and legs — all before many people even know you're expecting.
For you, these weeks can bring tiredness and morning sickness as your body adjusts. It's also when many parents long for reassurance — which is why an early pregnancy scan or heartbeat session from around 8 weeks can be such a comfort.
Second trimester · weeks 14-27
The second trimester is, for many, the most enjoyable stretch. Early symptoms often ease, energy returns, and somewhere around weeks 18-22 you may feel those first magical flutters of movement.
This is also the window for discovering your baby's gender — usually possible by ultrasound from 15-16 weeks. A gender reveal ultrasound makes a joyful mid-pregnancy milestone, however you choose to share the news.
Third trimester · weeks 28-40
The third trimester is when your baby truly fills out — soft, rounded features, plump cheeks and a personality that shows in every kick and stretch.
It's the perfect time for keepsake imaging. Between 26 and 32 weeks, 3D, 4D and HD 5D scans capture your baby at their most photogenic: detailed enough to look wonderfully real, with enough room left to pose. As your due date nears, you'll move into preparing for birth and those first cuddles.
Weeks 26-32 are the keepsake-scan sweet spot — late enough for detail, early enough for room to move.
Scan milestones at a glance
A simple timeline of lovely moments to capture:
- From 8 weeks — early pregnancy scan or heartbeat session for reassurance.
- 15-16 weeks — gender reveal ultrasound.
- 26-32 weeks — the golden window for 3D, 4D and HD 5D portraits.
- Any stage — a short sneak peek session for a quick, sweet glimpse.
Not sure how far along you are? Our pregnancy calculator works it out in seconds.
Looking after yourself
Through every trimester, the gentlest advice is also the simplest: rest when you can, stay hydrated, eat well, and keep every appointment with your doctor or midwife. Your prenatal care team is there to guide your medical journey.
Keepsake scans, meanwhile, are there for the joy — the bonding, the wonder and the memories. We'd be honoured to share one of those moments with your family.
Frequently asked questions
What are the three trimesters of pregnancy?
Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters: the first (weeks 1-13), the second (weeks 14-27) and the third (weeks 28-40), each with its own milestones.
When is the best time for a keepsake ultrasound?
For 3D, 4D and HD 5D facial portraits, 26-32 weeks is ideal. Earlier scans suit reassurance and gender reveals.
How do I know how many weeks pregnant I am?
You can estimate it from the first day of your last menstrual period or your conception date — our free pregnancy calculator does the maths for you instantly.
