Pregnancy week 3

Your baby’s development

For most people, fertilisation happens between the end of week 2 and the start of week 3, so this week holds the first days of an extraordinary beginning. When a sperm reaches and joins the egg, a single cell called a zygote forms and the genetic makeup is set. As the zygote travels down the fallopian tube towards the womb, it divides into two cells, then four, then eight. After about three days it becomes a small ball of cells called a morula, which then develops a cavity and becomes a blastocyst. Late in the week this structure reaches the womb and prepares to settle into the lining; implantation usually takes place 6 to 10 days after fertilisation. A pregnancy test will not be positive yet, because the hormone it detects is only just starting to be made. Everything is microscopic and still on its way. The process runs by itself, and there is nothing you need to do. This small journey keeps moving forward every hour, even if you feel nothing at all.

Changes in the mother

Changes in your body are usually not noticeable this week. Even if fertilisation has happened, your body does not announce it yet; symptoms tend to appear closer to a missed period. Some people notice slight tiredness or tender breasts towards the end of the week, but these cannot be told apart from premenstrual signs. This uncertain waiting time mixes curiosity and excitement. Trying to link every twinge to pregnancy can be tiring; this is very common and there is no need to blame yourself. You do not have to give up everyday habits such as moderate exercise or coffee suddenly, but avoiding alcohol and smoking is best. It is still early to test; waiting until a missed period gives a more reliable result. Your doctor or midwife is always there for your questions.

To do this week

• Wait until a missed period before taking a pregnancy test.
• Stop alcohol and smoking, or ask for support.
• Keep taking folic acid if your doctor has advised it.
• Give yourself some quiet time; waiting is hard.

Tip for the partner

Humor and patience help a lot while waiting; listening without commenting is support too.

Nutrition tip

Not skipping meals and drinking plenty of water keeps your energy steady during these uncertain days.