Is my heart beating faster?

1 min read June 8, 2025Week 11

Key takeaways

1 min

Expect your heart rate to increase naturally during pregnancy due to placental blood circulation changes, which is normal for a healthy pregnancy.
Schedule your first trimester screening between 11-14 weeks to monitor your baby's health and development through blood tests and ultrasound.
Monitor vaginal discharge for changes - normal discharge should be light, even-colored, and slightly sour-smelling during healthy pregnancy.
Watch for hemorrhoid development as increased blood flow can cause swollen rectal veins, requiring dietary changes and medical consultation.
Recognize that twin pregnancies show more pronounced symptoms including increased belly size, weight gain, and fatigue compared to single pregnancies.

Yes, your heart beats faster during pregnancy due to placental blood circulation changes. This increased heart rate and pulse pressure intensity is completely normal during a healthy pregnancy as your body supplies blood to both you and your baby.

Track your pregnancy in the app

Personalized content for your pregnancy week

Download App

Is my heart beating faster?

By this week in your pregnancy, placental blood circulation causes a temporary increase in your heart rate. You may notice that your heart beats faster and your pulse pressure seems more intense [1].

You may also experience the onset or worsening of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum which cause discomfort and sometimes bleeding. If you experience this common condition, consult your doctor for treatment and possible changes to your diet that may help.

For those expecting twins, you will start to notice a pronounced belly, weight gain, and increased tiredness.

Tests and exams

Schedule your first screening by the end of the first trimester, between 11 and 14 weeks. This includes lab tests (three-way blood analysis and biochemistry) and an ultrasound. The purpose of this screening is to review the health and physical development of the baby.

Discharge

At this point, normal vaginal discharge should look light and even in color, and may have a slightly sour smell. If you see blood spotting and experience painful cramps, consult your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

During a healthy pregnancy, placental blood circulation causes a temporary increase in heart rate. This is completely normal as your body works harder to supply blood to both you and your growing baby.

Schedule your first screening between 11-14 weeks of pregnancy. This includes blood tests and ultrasound to review your baby's health and physical development during this crucial period of healthy pregnancy.

Normal vaginal discharge during healthy pregnancy should be light and even in color with a slightly sour smell. Contact your doctor if you notice blood spotting or experience painful cramps.

Yes, hemorrhoids are a common condition during healthy pregnancy caused by increased blood flow and pressure. Consult your doctor for treatment options and dietary changes that may provide relief.

Twin pregnancies typically show more pronounced symptoms including a larger belly, increased weight gain, and greater fatigue compared to single pregnancies. These symptoms become more noticeable as your healthy pregnancy progresses.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Meet our medical experts

Medically reviewed content

Reviewed by healthcare professionals · Updated June 8, 2025

This article is based on peer-reviewed research and trusted medical sources.

Physiological changes in pregnancy; Priya Soma-Pillay, et al. Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, 2016

You can hear the baby’s heart beating

Discover when you can first hear your baby's heartbeat and explore early fetal development at 6 weeks. Perfect time to start thinking about baby names too!

doctor-visitsparenting

Pregnancy 3 min

You can hear your baby’s heart beating

Discover when you can hear your baby's heartbeat and explore beautiful baby names for your growing bundle of joy. Complete pregnancy guide with expert tips.

medical-testsemotions

Pregnancy 2 min

Turning a breech baby

Learn safe methods to turn your breech baby including ECV, yoga, and acupuncture. Support your healthy pregnancy with proven techniques. Read our guide now.

doctor-visitslabor-and-delivery

Pregnancy 1 min

What can I do about eczema?

Learn safe, effective ways to manage eczema during your healthy pregnancy. Discover gentle treatments, moisturizing tips, and when to see a doctor. Get relief today!

symptomsbaby-care

New Parent 3 min

How to track your baby’s weight

Learn how to track your baby's weight using WHO charts and percentiles. Essential guide for maintaining a healthy pregnancy and monitoring development. Start today!

nutritionparenting

Is my heart beating faster?

Is my heart beating faster?

You can hear the baby’s heart beating

You can hear your baby’s heart beating

Turning a breech baby

What can I do about eczema?

How to track your baby’s weight

Track your pregnancy on the go