As you journey through your pregnancy, the excitement of meeting your little one is just around the corner. From dealing with nausea, swollen feet, and bodily changes, each week brings something new and different. We have broken down the stages of pregnancy to give you an idea of what to expect.
Weeks 1-2 mark the beginning of your pregnancy countdown, starting from the first day of your last period. While you may not technically be pregnant in week one, your body is preparing for ovulation, which occurs in week two. This is the best time to conceive, as you are most fertile leading up to ovulation. If conception occurs, the fertilized egg implants into the womb within five to six days.
By week 3, you may begin to experience early pregnancy symptoms such as cramping, spotting, bloating, and breast tenderness. Taking a pregnancy test can confirm your suspicions, as it detects the hormone hCG in your urine. Around this time, the embryo is rapidly multiplying cells in your uterus, with some developing into the embryo and others into the placenta.
Week 4 brings significant growth for the embryo, as it begins to form various layers that will become different parts of your baby’s body. It is crucial to avoid alcohol, smoking, and drugs during this critical period of development. An amniotic sac and yolk sac also start to form during this time.
In week 5, your embryo is the size of a sesame seed, with the heart beginning to form and blood vessels circulating blood. Taking folic acid is recommended to prevent neural tube defects, and creating a maternity plan around this time is advisable.
Weeks 6 and 7 mark exciting developments as the embryo begins to take on a more human form, with the brain and vital organs rapidly developing. Your body may experience changes such as breast enlargement, frequent urination, nausea, and heightened sense of smell.
In week 8, your baby is raspberry-sized with distinct features like lips, nose, and eyelids. The amniotic fluid increases, preparing for a larger baby in the coming weeks. You may notice a white discharge due to increased estrogen levels.
Week 9 sees the embryo developing a face, tongue, teeth, and bigger eyes. The heart now has four chambers, and the placenta takes over caring for your baby. Food cravings and aversions may intensify during this time, along with feelings of exhaustion. As your pregnancy progresses, make sure to listen to your body and get the rest you need.
