By now, it’s been a whole month into conception. The fourth week of pregnancy is considered crucial because it is during this stage that a foetus is most at risk to develop abnormalities. Whatever you do during this week, will directly impact your baby’s development. So, without further ado, let’s look at all that you need to know about the fourth week of pregnancy.
What are the signs?
You have definitely missed your period. Symptoms from the previous weeks such as nausea, light-headedness, fatigue, dizziness, mood swings and heightened sense of taste and smell will be even more intense now. Even the slightest hint of foul odour is likely to trigger vomiting. You will experience morning sickness and mild cramping too. Increase in the pregnancy hormone hCG will also cause anxiety and sudden mood swings. Your breasts will also feel sorer than before.
This is a good time to visit your obstetrician who will run some tests, check your health, personal and family’s medical history, advise you on medication and so on.
What’s happening to the baby?
At four weeks, your baby has grown to the size of a poppy seed i.e. almost 3 mm long! The stages of conception, fertilisation and implantation are well past now. By now, all your baby’s organs have started developing. The placenta is formed that protects your baby and also provides it with all the nutrients and oxygen. Your baby’s central nervous and circulatory systems are already functioning. The heart has begun to beat, blood vessels are supplying blood. And the craziest part? Your baby is doing all this, while barely visible even through an ultrasound!
What should I be doing
This is an important time, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, feelings and anxieties with your partner. Let them know what you are feeling at any given point. The more they know, the better they can help you. A whole new journey is about to begin, and it will be a much smoother ride if you both are in this together, helping each other out.
This is the time to get serious and really committed to caring for the little human growing inside you. Every little thing you do during this time will directly affect your baby’s health and development. If you haven’t given up unhealthy habits such as drinking and smoking by now, you have to quit immediately.
Consult with your obstetrician in great detail about what you should be eating and what you shouldn’t. Have all your doubts cleared and myths busted. Run your prescription and over the counter medicines – if you’ve been taking any – by your doctor to check if they’re safe to continue.
As mentioned earlier, the hormonal changes will cause a lot of fatigue, drowsiness and mood swings. Regular, moderate exercise combined with an undisturbed 8 hours of sleep and a healthy diet are the best ways to cope with these symptoms.
Combat sluggishness with a quick nap or exercise instead of caffeine. Don’t give up on food entirely, due to nausea. Instead, eat small meals at regular intervals. Avoid foods whose smells trigger nausea.
Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day.
It’s paramount that you make your health and well-being of top priority now. All the best!