Pregnancy week 1

Your baby’s development

Pregnancy dating can feel odd at first, because it starts on the first day of your last menstrual period. Clinicians count weeks from that date, so week 1 is a time when you are not yet pregnant and your body is simply beginning a new cycle. There is no baby and not even an embryo at this stage. The uterine lining is shed with your period, and several small follicles in the ovaries start to mature. Usually only one of them goes on to release an egg in the coming days. So this week is the very start of the groundwork rather than of a baby. Counted this way, pregnancy is described as lasting 40 weeks, while actual development after conception takes about 38. Knowing this makes the dates on ultrasound reports much easier to follow later on. Because conception has not happened yet, nothing you did or did not do this week affects a baby. You can begin this journey calmly.

Changes in the mother

Most likely you are in the middle of your period this week, and nothing in your body points to pregnancy yet. Cramps, tiredness or mood swings belong to your usual cycle. If you are planning a baby, this week is a good moment to prepare. Regular sleep, balanced meals and movement help you now and during pregnancy. If you would like support to quit or cut down on smoking or alcohol, your doctor can help. If you have a long-term condition or take medication regularly, talking with your doctor before conceiving is a valuable step; please do not stop any medicine on your own. Some people like to track their cycle and ovulation in detail, while others prefer to wait without counting anything. Both are fine. Entering your last period date in this app helps us show your weeks accurately.

To do this week

• Enter the first day of your last period in the app.
• If you are planning a baby, consider a pre-pregnancy chat with your doctor.
• If your doctor recommends it, start folic acid now.
• Add one small improvement to your sleep and water routine.

Tip for the partner

Simply being there without pressure matters more than planning right now; a walk together is a nice start.

Nutrition tip

A varied diet with vegetables, fruit and whole grains is a good foundation; follow your doctor's advice on folic acid.