Pregnancy Overview: Weeks 1-12

Week 1-4: Early Signs of Pregnancy

• Pregnancy Measurement: Measured from the first day of the last period.
• Development: Baby size of a poppy seed; major organs beginning to develop.
• Symptoms:
  • Nausea, bloating, sore breasts, exhaustion, mood swings.
  • Mild spotting may occur (implantation bleeding).
• Recommendations:
  • Call a doctor for blood test confirmation.
  • Check prescription medication safety.
  • Start taking prenatal vitamins.
  • Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
  • Avoid changing cat litter (toxoplasmosis risk).
  • Get the flu vaccine.

Week 5: Development Continues

• Baby Size: Comparable to an apple seed.
• Major Development: Brain, heart, and organs developing rapidly.
• Symptoms: Increased urination, food cravings, heightened sense of smell.
• Nausea Management: Eat small, frequent meals; prioritize hydration.

Week 6: Changes and Symptoms

• Baby Size: Size of a sweet pea; limbs starting to sprout.
• Symptoms: Tight pants (bloating), potential urinary tract infections, constipation.
• Recommendations:
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Limit caffeine to 300 mg/day (2 small coffees or 3 teas).
  • Schedule dating ultrasound between 6-11 weeks.

Week 7: Ongoing Development

• Baby Size: As big as a cheerio; mouth and tongue developing.
• Nausea Relief Techniques:
  • Frequent snacking; ginger remedies; avoid nausea triggers.
• Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Severe nausea requiring medical attention.

Week 8: Growth and Health Care Choices

• Baby Size: Comparable to a Swedish berry; major organs in place.
• Concerns: Miscarriage worries; light spotting is common.
• Recommendations: Consider health care provider for pregnancy care.

Week 9: Distinct Features

• Baby Size: Size of macaroni; facial features becoming distinct.
• Symptoms: Increased nausea and fatigue; pants may feel tight.
• Weight Gain: Varies based on pre-pregnancy weight; average is 25-30 pounds.

Week 10: Growing Baby

• Baby Size: Size of a strawberry; organs functioning.
• Symptoms: Vivid dreams; mild stomach cramps normal.
• Recommendations: Prenatal visits to monitor baby’s heartbeat.

Week 11: Genetic Testing

• Baby Size: Size of a large Brussels sprout; major developments.
• Genetic Testing: Blood tests and nuchal translucency scans performed.
• Exercise: Important for maintaining health; consider low-impact activities.

Week 12: Transition

• Baby Size: Size of a large mushroom; all organs formed.
• Risk of Miscarriage: Drops significantly after the first trimester.
• Maternity Needs: Consider buying maternity clothes as the baby bump grows.