You are now part of the pregnancy club! Week 5 is the most common time when mothers learn that they are pregnant. That’s because you may have just realized that you haven’t had your period yet!
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How Big Is My Baby Now?
According to researches, the typical size of a baby at five weeks is the size of an apple seed. It measures from 0.1 to 0.15 inches from the head of the child to its bum. Don’t be surprised that next week, it will be almost twice its size!
My Baby’s Development
Even though you are just on your fifth week, there are a lot of changes happening with your baby’s growth. To deliver oxygen and the essential nutrients from your body to the embryo, the development of the umbilical cord is already taking place. Minerals such as calcium and folic acid are critical to the health of your baby.
This week is also the time the neural tube is in the middle of formation which will eventually be the baby’s brain and spinal column.
What Is My Baby Doing?
During this week, you’ll be able to hear the faint sound of your baby’s first heartbeats. What’s also so unique about this stage is your baby will have a better connection with you through its developing umbilical cord!
Belly Ultrasound
When viewed in an ultrasound, your five-week-old baby might be just a tadpole right now. However, this is the stage when the major organs, such as the liver, heart, kidneys, and stomach, are beginning to form. This week is the time wherein the body systems are also starting its process.
If you do not have any pregnancy complications, you won’t likely be advised by your doctor to undergo an ultrasound. Most likely, they will book an appointment for you on your eighth or ninth week.
My Changing Body – Week 5
At this stage of the pregnancy, you might feel little changes on your body. You might also think that you have gained more or less than a pound. In addition, you might even experience a bit of bloatedness sometimes. Don’t be scared! That’s perfectly normal.
In the meantime, take care of yourself properly by eating right, having enough sleep, and avoiding your everyday stressors. You can also treat yourself by listening to soothing music and taking a warm bath. Make sure to avoid smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages to prevent complications in your pregnancy.
Common Symptoms
Mothers often complain about the first trimester being the most challenging pregnancy stage. Nevertheless, there’s no need to be worried about the degree of pain you might experience in your fifth week of pregnancy. Here’s what to expect in this stage:
Fatigue
At five weeks of pregnancy, it is perfectly normal to take a nap at the middle of the day. You’re too exhausted with making the baby, and there’s nothing much that you can address. Just take some extra rest.
Cramps
Cramping is a sign that an embryo has implanted itself into the lining of your uterus. It can also be a way to know that your uterus is stretching out and expanding. If you feel severe cramping, make sure to ask for your doctor’s help.
Frequent Urination
During the early stages of pregnancy, there is an urge to pee every half an hour or so. This frequent urination is due to the expansion of your kidneys.
Sore Breasts
The most common symptom on the fifth week of pregnancy is aching breasts. You might feel slightly dulling pain in your breasts for no apparent reason.
Morning Sickness
This week is the start of the regular morning sickness experience. Those who are 5 weeks pregnant with twins often experience it more severely.
How Is My Life Changing
As mentioned above, you may experience some of the pregnancy discomforts already. However, people around you won’t notice these changes happening inside you. You might just cut off a few wine drinks, sleep earlier, or pass up some nights out with friends. Also, don't get too stressed out with the upcoming changes you'll experience. Just enjoy the process.
Week 5 Mommy Checklist
Since you have already confirmed your pregnancy, make sure to accomplish the following weekly to-do list:
- Come up with a financial plan for you to save for your baby.
- Start a daily pregnancy journal. It will serve as your outlet for your stress. It can also help you track the changes in your body.
- Plan a healthy diet by coming up with a daily menu. You can seek a professional when making this list.
- Schedule your first prenatal appointment with your doctor.
- Pick up a pregnancy book.
Tips For The Partners
In this stage, the hormones are coursing wildly through your partner’s body. Hence, it is hard to keep her emotions in check. She will probably snap over minor things or even cry randomly at times. Check out and practice the things listed below to help you survive during your partner’s week 5:
- Be patient. Make sure not to clash emotions with her.
- Run her a warm bath to keep her stress out.
- Buy her flowers (or whatever she’s craving) to keep her happy.
Use this early pregnancy stage to set expectations with your partner. This way, both of you will have a smoother pregnancy experience.
A Sneak Peek to Your Sixth Week
Week 6 definitely won’t be easy since it will turn on the faucets of nausea. Expect to experience morning sickness 24/7 which will send you running to the toilet every minute of the day.
