Congratulations! You’re now six weeks pregnant and your baby is rapidly growing and developing. At this stage, the baby is the size of a lentil, but a lot is happening behind the scenes. Let’s take a look at the different parts of your baby’s development.
Table of Contents
The Embryo
At six weeks, your baby is officially called an embryo, and it’s about 4mm long. The embryo is made up of three layers, each of which will eventually develop into different parts of the body. The top layer will become the brain and nervous system, the middle layer will become the heart and blood vessels, and the bottom layer will become the digestive system, lungs, and liver.
Source: bing.comThe Heart
At six weeks, your baby’s heart is already beating! It’s still too early to hear the heartbeat using a stethoscope, but on an ultrasound, you can see the tiny flickering that’s the sign of a strong, healthy heartbeat. The heart has four chambers that are beginning to form at this stage.
The Limbs
Your baby’s arms and legs are beginning to grow at this stage. The arms are growing faster than the legs, and the hands and feet are starting to take shape. The fingers and toes are still webbed at this point, but they will soon separate into distinct digits.
The Brain
The brain and nervous system are developing rapidly at this stage. The neural tube is forming, which will eventually become the spinal cord and brain. The brain is starting to develop the different parts that will be responsible for various functions such as movement, sensation, and thought.
The Placenta
The placenta is the organ that connects the embryo to the mother’s blood supply. At six weeks, the placenta is starting to form and will eventually provide oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby. The placenta will also filter out waste products from the baby’s blood.
What to Expect
At six weeks, you may start experiencing some mild pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and breast tenderness. You may also start to feel more emotional as your hormones are in overdrive. It’s important to take care of yourself at this stage by eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to exercise during the first trimester?
A: Yes, it’s safe to exercise during the first trimester as long as you listen to your body and don’t overdo it. Talk to your healthcare provider about what exercises are safe for you.
Q: Can I still have sex during the first trimester?
A: Yes, it’s safe to have sex during the first trimester as long as you don’t have any complications such as bleeding, cramping, or a history of miscarriage.
Q: Should I be taking any supplements at six weeks?
A: It’s recommended that you take a prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy pregnancy.
Q: What foods should I avoid during the first trimester?
A: You should avoid raw or undercooked meats, fish high in mercury, unpasteurized dairy products, and foods that may contain harmful bacteria such as deli meats and soft cheeses.
Q: When should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?
A: It’s recommended that you schedule your first prenatal appointment between 8-12 weeks of pregnancy. This will give your healthcare provider a chance to check on the baby’s development, discuss any concerns you may have, and give you advice on staying healthy during pregnancy.