Pregnancy – Week 6

Mum

Its normal to have lost weight if you are experiencing morning sickness but you may have gained a little weight and starting to notice changes in your body by now.
The rise in hormones may cause some women to experience headaches or a feeling of being light headed.

Some women have no pregnancy symptoms at all but if you suddenly lose symptoms you should contact your medical professional. You may also notice an increase in your vaginal discharge at this time. Food cravings, constipation and a feeling of being very emotional might be some other symptoms kicking in now.

Bub

Your baby is about the size of a small bean or raisin (around 8mm or 1/4 inch in length) now with a large head and dark spots where eyes and nostrils will form. Fingers are beginning to form on paddle shaped hands and feet.

The neural tube enlarges and will develop into a very complex brain. The spine and spinal cord gives the appearance of a tail as it grows faster than the rest of the body and will disappear as growth of your baby continues.

The embryo also makes its first movements during this week but they won’t be felt by Mum until sometime in the second trimester.

The stalk connecting your baby to the placenta will grow into the umbilical cord with blood vessels forming within to provide your baby with his nourishment while developing.

This is a very important time in your baby’s development because the embryo is most susceptible to factors that can interfere with normal growth between 17 and 56 days.

Tips

Get plenty of rest, fresh air and regular exercise combined with your healthy diet to help your baby thrive.
If you are experiencing breast soreness, sleeping in a sports bra may help.
If you haven’t already, stop smoking, taking drugs and drinking alcohol now.