Pregnancy week 7

Your baby’s development

This week the embryo is about the size of a blueberry, around 1 cm, and its brain grows at an extraordinary pace. Hundreds of thousands of new nerve cells form every minute. The arm buds lengthen and paddle-like hand plates appear at the ends; the leg buds follow. On the face the nostrils, upper lip and eyes become clearer, and the inner ear structures take shape. The heart begins to divide into four chambers. Structures for the kidneys, pancreas and lungs form. The tail-like extension starts to shrink and the embryo looks more and more human. The umbilical cord thickens and the placenta keeps carrying oxygen and nutrients. You cannot feel any movement yet, but tiny movements can be seen on ultrasound. This intense development is a reminder of how much nourishment and self-care matter, though you do not need to be perfect; regular and enough is enough. All of this changes visibly within a few days, and each new week adds further detail to the picture.

Changes in the mother

Week 7 is when nausea and tiredness feel heaviest for many people. Extra saliva, a metallic taste, constipation, bloating and frequent urination are common. These relate to the slowing effect of the hormone progesterone. Your clothes may not feel tight yet, but you may feel fullness around your waist and belly. Short naps, gentle walks and plenty of fluids help during the day. If you have no symptoms at all, that is also usual; how strong symptoms are does not directly reflect the health of the pregnancy. Emotional ups and downs are common too; you may cry, feel irritable or feel nothing at all. Try not to compare yourself with other pregnant people, since every pregnancy is different. Light, brief spotting is usually harmless, but if the amount grows or pain comes with it, speak to your doctor.

To do this week

• Eat fibre-rich foods and drink plenty of water for constipation.
• Choose comfortable, non-restrictive clothes and a supportive bra.
• Ask at your check-up when blood and urine tests are planned.
• Plan short rest breaks through the day.

Tip for the partner

Take on a few household tasks and ask what they need rather than showering her with advice.

Nutrition tip

Small portions of protein with complex carbohydrates may make nausea less noticeable.