What’s happening inside

By the end of this week, individual elements that form the embryo will start to develop. A neural tube, which will eventually develop into the spinal cord and brain, starts to develop from the top to the bottom of the embryo. Your baby’s heart, in the centre of the embryo, will begin to develop. The placenta, which is the structure that will become your unborn baby’s lifeline, also starts to take form during this stage.

Maternal Changes

You won’t look pregnant yet but you may experience some early symptoms such as nausea (also known as morning sickness). You may also feel a tingling soreness in your breasts and feel more tired than usual. Your metabolic rate will also be slightly higher during your pregnancy, so do not be afraid to do some moderate aerobic exercise such as walking or jogging. These exercises will not affect your baby’s development.

➡️ Related Read: Top 10 Morning Sickness Remedies

A Matter of Fact

Pregnant women often try to connect their baby through dreams. One common dream in pregnant mothers is that they are swimming. This is thought to be a way of “reaching out” to your baby, who will soon be formed in the fluid inside you.

Tips for Daddy

Most couples decide not to tell people until after the 12-week scan when the miscarriage risk is significantly lower but do confide in close relatives and friends (seek your partner’s consent first) as they will give you a much-needed outlet to pour out your feelings.

➡️ Related Read: Why Do Miscarriages Happen?

Schedule a visit to a gynaecologist as soon as you suspect your wife is pregnant. Good prenatal care is one of the best assurances of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

A quote for mummy-to-be

Life is always a rich and steady time when you are waiting for something to happen or to hatch. ~ By E.B. White

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This is part of our New Age Parents Week By Week Pregnancy Guide! This article was first published in New Age Pregnancy.

With this guide, we hope it will help to give you some reassurance and shed some light on the changes you will come to experience for the next 40 weeks. Now, let the countdown begin.

Disclaimer: Please keep in mind the information provided in this guide is just an approximate gauge for your pregnancy. Each pregnancy is different and growth rates vary. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact your gynaecologist.

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