You're now seven weeks pregnant! Your pregnancy is chugging along; before you know it, you'll be a parent of a brand new baby! There's a lot to cover when discussing what you can expect at this stage, so we won't waste any time getting into it. Let's take a look at all you need to know about being seven weeks pregnant.
Key Points
- You may start to experience new symptoms at this stage. These new symptoms can include constipation, vaginal discharge, and excess salivating.
- You might receive your first ultrasound at this stage!
- It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any unexpected or severe symptoms. Vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, severe vomiting, and vaginal discharge can all be signs that something is wrong.
Body Changes at Seven Weeks Pregnant
More symptoms of pregnancy may appear in when you are seven weeks pregnant. Nausea and morning sickness, constipation, vaginal discharge and excess saliva are some. Rapid acceleration of hormones can cause your face to break out. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and drink plenty of water. Vitamin B6 not only helps with nausea, but you may find it also improves the condition of your skin.
Your waist may already be expanding, causing your clothes to feel snug. You may experience constipation and have occasional bouts of indigestion. Some women also feel a bit dizzy or lightheaded at times. Persistent symptoms that concern you should be immediately reported to your doctor.
You will develop a mucus plug around this time, which forms in the opening of the cervical canal and seals off the uterus for protection. Eventually, you will lose this plug as your cervix dilates in preparation for labor. If you haven't already, you should call your doctor for an OB appointment. You should get your first ultrasound around this stage.
Your Baby's Development at Week Seven
The hand plates become present this week, and the baby is 0.2 to 0.52 inches long, or about the size of a marble. He or she weighs about 0.03 ounces. The genital tubercle is present, but you can't distinguish girls from boys by sight at this point. Nasal pits are forming.
Your baby will actually go through three sets of kidneys, very rapidly as they develop during this period. This week the second of such sets will form. Your baby's heart becomes completely formed, the limb buds are present and the eyes appear as dark spots with the eyelid folds forming. Your baby's tongue begins to form and his or her trunk of their body elongates and straightens. The pituitary gland is forming in the middle of the brain.
The stomach and esophagus begin to form and the umbilical cord, which is the link between your baby and the placenta, is now clearly visible. Your baby's liver also starts functioning this week. Your baby will start producing red blood cells
What Complications Can Arise at Seven Weeks Pregnant?
Unfortunately, some complications can crop up at this stage. It's certainly no reason to be paranoid or overly anxious, but it's something to be aware of. Caution and a little sense will go a long way, but if you feel your fears over pregnancy issues are becoming crippling, you ought to speak to a counselor. There's no shame in needing a little support during this time, especially if this is your first pregnancy or you've experienced pregnancy complications before.
Miscarriage. Miscarriage is when you unexpectedly and involuntarily lose your baby before 23 weeks. Miscarriage can be devastating, especially later into a pregnancy. It is especially common in the earlier stages, which is why many people choose to wait until their pregnancy is far enough along to tell others of their pregnancy. Women who have not experienced a miscarriage have about a 15% chance of having one. Certain risk factors may increase your risk, such as being older or having a previous miscarriage.
Ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is when implantation occurs outside of the uterine cavity. This is considered a medical emergency; if you suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy, you need to get to the hospital immediately. An untreated ectopic pregnancy can kill you. Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy will always end in a miscarriage.
Pregnancy usually goes fine, but sometimes things go wrong. If you begin experiencing abnormal or severe cramping, vaginal bleeding or discharge, burning when you urinate, severe vomiting, abdominal pain, fainting, or tissue coming out of your vagina, see a doctor as soon as possible or go to the hospital. Ultimately, if something feels wrong, it's best to get a professional opinion.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Everything you need to know about being seven weeks pregnant. We know that was a lot of information, so definitely go back and read through it again to make sure you have everything down. Again- if you experience anything severe or unusual, then seek medical attention right away. Complications can definitely arise at this stage. Make sure you keep all of your prenatal appointments, and follow the doctor's instructions accordingly. Both of you have the same common goal: for your baby to survive to delivery and to come out as healthy as possible. You also want to take care of yourself throughout this process, too!
Congratulations on your baby, or good luck if you're still trying and are simply looking ahead! We have many other articles available for you to peruse while you wait the arrival of your new baby. From birth to college, we've got you covered.
The information in this article should not be taken as professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a doctor for any medical questions or concerns. Moms Who Think is not responsible for any outcomes that may arise as a result of actions taken based on information we provide. It is your responsibility to do your own research and to take the appropriate measures to protect your health.