Two swoon-worthy things happen by week 6, first, your baby’s close to smiling with her cheeks, chin and jaws beginning to form, and second, her heart is beating! You might even be able to witness the thump-thumping for yourself on the ultrasound! Week 6 will also reveal why you can’t stop peeing. Here’s what you can expect of pregnancy and your baby during week 6.
Pregnancy Week 6: Your Baby is Taking Shape
By this point in your pregnancy, you’re probably experiencing a lot of pregnancy symptoms but there’s a (good) reason: you baby’s taking shape! Her head is beginning to form and along with that comes the jaw, cheeks and chin that will form the most adorable face you’ve ever seen. Your baby also has ear canals forming, and will soon have eyes and a sweet little nose. Also taking shape? Kidneys, liver and lungs as well as the baby’s heart, which is measuring 110 beats a minute and getting faster with each passing day.
Another fun thing to do during week 6 is to measure the embryo. Doctors typically go from the crown to the cute little bottom since legs are typically bent and make measuring a challenge. At six weeks pregnant, your baby’s measurement is around a fifth to a quarter of an inch, or the size of a sweet little pea. Has a nice ring to it, huh?!
Body Changes to Expect for Week 6
Get ready for being in the bathroom more than you’re out of it. Week 6 reveals why you can’t stop peeing. The pregnancy hormone hCG causes an increase in blood flow to your pelvic area (good for sexual pleasure and that’s about it) and your kidneys are seriously on top of getting rid of waste. Plus, your growing uterus is pushing down on your bladder which leaves less space for urine. It’s a perfect pee storm. But relief is on the way! Your uterus will rise into the abdominal cavity by second trimester and relieve some of the pressure on your bladder.
Heartburn is a serious thing during pregnancy, and the chances of not having it during the next nine months are slim. Why? The muscles at the top of the stomach that usually prevent digestive juices from backing up are relaxed, which means constant indigestion. Eat deliberately and keep clothes loose to minimize symptoms.
Pregnancy Symptoms to Watch For
You’re probably already very familiar with the nausea and vomiting that come with the first few weeks of pregnancy. Fatigue is also very real during this time. You’re creating a baby and that’s hard work! Take frequent breaks and get much-needed rest; the to-do list can wait.
If you’re noticing breast changes by this time that’s normal too. Your breasts are growing in size and your nipples will stick out more and darken in color. Increased tenderness is also very common so be vocal about what does and doesn’t feel good with your partner.
Progesterone is coursing through your body and with it comes bloating and gas. While the hormone is necessary for pregnancy, most mom-to-be’s would love to go without the puffy look. Bulk up on fiber and drink your water to avoid constipation, which can make symptoms even worse.
Week 6 To-Do List
You’ll want to avoid high-mercury fish but 12 oz. of well-cooked shellfish, canned light tuna, salmon or cod is ok each week. After six weeks of pregnancy you’re at risk for a urinary tract infection so if the regular peeing switches suddenly to not being able to or peeing with pain, make an appointment to see your doctor. If adding exercise feels overwhelming, or you’re not sure how to swing it in the middle of nausea, focus on getting extra steps in during everyday activities. And although the cravings can make you crazy for all things unhealthy, try to find some healthier treats to mix in with those intense urges. Now is the time for pampering yourself and relaxing but steer clear of acrylic nails and the strong fumes that sometimes float around nail salons.
You’ll also be preparing for your very first prenatal checkup! Exciting! This first one will be very long as you’ll have a thorough physical, including a pelvic exam and blood tests. You’ll be tested for sexually transmitted diseases, immunity to German measles (rubella) and ethnic-specific genetic diseases. Your urine will also be tested for glucose, protein, red and white blood cells and bacteria. Bring all of your questions and be prepared to answer a lot yourself!
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