Week 7
Your baby’s brain is growing faster than the rest of the body right now, so the head looks quite large in comparison!
Your baby’s heart is becoming more complex and dividing into four chambers.
Small ‘buds’ show where arms and legs are beginning to grow - babies develop from the head down, so the arms will develop before the legs.
The baby is suspended in a bubble filled with fluid, which will become the amniotic sac.
Morning sickness?
By now, you might be experiencing what people refer to as ‘morning’ sickness - but unfortunately, these bouts of nausea can happen anytime, not just in the mornings. The good news is that even the most persistent nausea usually disappears by 16-20 weeks – so hang in there!
In the meantime, though, there's no need to suffer in silence; we've compiled a list of tried-and-tested tips to help calm pregnancy sickness.
Get your partner involved
Early pregnancy can be a bit bewildering for your partner, so don't hesitate to explain how you're feeling to them. Things like mood swings, morning sickness or feeling overwhelmingly tired are often easier to deal with if you have someone to share them with. Remember, too, that you're not the only one adjusting to impending parenthood – your partner also has worries and concerns to contend with.
Being a single mum doesn't mean you have to miss out on support, either. If you ask close friends or family members to get involved in your pregnancy, chances are they’ll be thrilled to be part of this great event.
Don't forget! Have you taken your folic acid supplement?
What it’s like for the mum-to-be in week 7
Most pregnant women experience symptoms as a result of hormonal changes in their bodies during the first trimester. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, there’s a lot you can do to boost your wellbeing in week 7.
If the symptoms are getting you down, you can look forward to them easing and disappearing completely by the third month. From then on, pregnant women usually feel much better and more optimistic.
Sore breasts
Your breasts are beginning to get bigger, and this means they will feel sore. This can cause problems in the evening and at night because it’s often difficult to find a position where you can lie comfortably – sometimes even just the weight of your duvet will make them hurt. Hugging can often be painful also.
Sensitivity to smell
Did you know that being sensitive to smell and feeling sick when it comes to certain foods is nature’s way of preventing the mum-to-be from harming herself and her child? To avoid putting you and your child in danger, your body uses an old “total aversion” reflex to prevent you consuming substances you shouldn’t.
Vaginal discharge
You may also experience increased vaginal discharge. If there is no bleeding or if it is only minimal, then everything is as it should be. If there is bleeding and you get severe abdominal pains, this could be a sign of a miscarriage. If you have any worries please contact your doctor or midwife immediately.
