Your baby

At about 5mm long, your baby is currently the size of an apple pip, but is growing fast - and is already forming a heart, which will start beating very shortly. At 5 weeks pregnant the brain, spine and nerves are also starting to develop. At this stage of the pregnancy, the embryo’s needs will be met by the yolk sac. This releases pregnancy hormones and produces the baby’s first red blood cells.

You

5 weeks pregnant symptoms can leave you feeling sick, ridiculously tired and rather overwhelmed. Some women feel faint or experience tender breasts. Don’t worry, you’ll feel better soon, and will (hopefully) be glowing in no time! Read more about the early signs of pregnancy.

What to think about

Try to get as much fresh air as possible. Vitamin D is crucial for your baby’s development and even a 15 minute walk in outside in the sun can help. You can also boost your intake with healthy food or supplements (check with you doctor first).

Some women experience bleeding during pregnancy.  If you do experience 5 weeks pregnant bleeding, or bleeding at any stage, always call your doctor or midwife, as it may be a sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.

If you’re feeling under the weather avoid medicines and drugs, including ibuprofen and aspirin unless they are prescribed by a doctor that knows you’re pregnant.

Some women may need an early ultrasound scan especially if there has been a history of multiple birth or miscarriage. It may also be used to find the cause for vaginal bleeding.   However, the majority of women have their first ultrasound scan around the 12th week of pregnancy.

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