Pregnancy week 5

Your baby’s development

The first steps of the heart happen this week. The embryo is about the size of a sesame seed, around 0.2 cm. The neural tube, the foundation of the nervous system, appears as a groove along the back and begins to close; the brain and spinal cord will grow from it. A simple tube that will become the heart forms and may begin to contract rhythmically, though this is not yet a heartbeat that can be measured on ultrasound. Blood vessels and the first blood cells appear. Tiny pits that mark the start of the eyes and ears form where the face will be. At this stage the embryo is gently curved, a little like the letter C. The foundations of the placenta and umbilical cord also strengthen. All of this happens at sub-millimetre scale and at a very fast pace. These weeks mark the start of the critical period when organs begin to form, which is why healthy habits matter particularly now. That is why following your doctor's advice on folic acid and regular meals is especially valuable in these weeks.

Changes in the mother

Symptoms may become clearer this week. Nausea, sensitivity to smells, tiredness, sore breasts and frequent trips to the toilet begin for many people. Nausea may last all day, not only in the morning; small frequent meals, plain crackers, ginger drinks and plenty of fluids help many. Hormone changes can make your mood swing, which is very common. Mild groin twinges may relate to the womb growing and are usually short-lived. However, if you have severe abdominal pain, sharp one-sided pain, heavy bleeding, or dizziness with a feeling of fainting, seek medical help without waiting. You decide when to tell your workplace. A little rest during the day, an earlier bedtime and kindness to yourself are the most important care in these weeks; tiredness is not laziness, it is your body working hard.

To do this week

• Book your first antenatal visit if you have not already.
• Try small, frequent meals to manage nausea.
• Review all medicines and supplements with your doctor.
• Stay away from smoky places.

Tip for the partner

Take food-smell sensitivity seriously; cooking or keeping snacks ready for nausea helps a lot.

Nutrition tip

Light options such as dry toast, banana and yoghurt may ease nausea; keep sipping fluids through the day.