The Second Month of Pregnancy
Your baby is now approximately the size of a pea, but there is a lot going on during this time. Learn more about Weeks 5 to 8 of your pregnancy, below.
Week 5
How is baby developing?
Baby is very busy growing various organs and tissues, including the brain, and beginnings of the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. By this stage, baby’s pulmonary and digestive systems are also steadily forming, which includes a more prominent development of their heart. An ultrasound during this time could show your little one’s heart beating!
How is your body changing?
Hormonal changes may make you feel a little more irritable or edgy, and certain tastes and smells can become very unappetising. Physically, you may experience nausea (the beginnings of morning sickness!) and some pain or pulling in your pelvic region due to strengthened blood flow. By this stage, you will have missed your period, but slight spotting can also appear.
Week 6
How is baby developing?
6 weeks in, baby’s organs and tissues are beginning to take on a more recognizable form. Although only the size of a kidney bean at this point, optic nerves are forming, limbs are lengthening, and your little one will make some of their first movements (although you probably won’t feel these until your 2nd trimester!).
How is your body changing?
As your hormone levels rise, you may experience more severe morning sickness, weight changes, fuller and more sensitive breasts, and trouble sleeping. Your body is beginning to bear the strain of pregnancy, and it is important for you to start taking it easy during this time!
Week 7
How is baby developing?
You and your little one begin physically connecting, with the formation of the umbilical cord taking place. Remarkably, baby doubles in size this week compared to Week 6, meaning you can begin to see their developing features on an ultrasound. Some of these features include facial features and a quick heartbeat (of 150 to 160 bpm!).
How is your body changing?
Morning sickness persists and can be accompanied by weight gain and pregnancy cravings (some of which may be surprising!). A growing uterus and changing hormone levels can also mean making more trips to the bathroom!
Week 8
How is baby developing?
Baby is now moving more purposefully as the limbs, muscles, and bones develop more fully. By the end of this week, your little one’s heart and vascular systems should be developed.
How is your body changing?
You may begin experiencing more significant mood swings this week. This is normal because of fluctuating hormones! Your breasts will continue to enlarge, and your waistline may increase. It is also normal to begin experiencing some cramping as your uterus grows.
General tips for your 1st trimester
General tips for your 1st trimester
Pregnancy can be scary, especially for first-time moms! Read below for some helpful tips to keep in mind during your 1st trimester.
2 mins to read
Related articles
Personal considerations
You may need to consider some personal issues before you become pregnant.
1 min to read
Relaxation and correct breathing techniques
As your pregnancy advances, the uterus exerts an increased upward pressure on your diaphragm. As you near your due date you may find that you breathe less deeply, although more efficiently.
5 mins to read
Labour support
Labour support is a concept that has been around for thousands of years.
5 mins to read
Multiple births
Regular prenatal care is most important if you are carrying more than one baby, as the risk to you and your babies is higher.
1 min to read
Childbirth and parent education
Attending childbirth and parent education classes is an excellent way to prepare for the birth and develop a support system.
5 mins to read
The Fourth Month of Pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 14-17.
2 mins to read
Energy and weight
Energy
You need extra energy:
5 mins to read
Caesarean birth
A Caesarean birth is the delivery of your baby through an abdominal uterine incision, instead of vaginally.
5 mins to read
Health and fitness
Ideally, you should assess your health and fitness. You may need to make some changes to your lifestyle
3 mins to read
Guidelines for exercise during and after pregnancy
Before exercising, during or before pregnancy, it is advisable to eat high fibre, high carbohydrate snacks, such as an apple, dried fruit, banana or whole wheat muffin, as your metabolic functions
5 mins to read
Medication for pain relief
In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.
5 mins to read
Subsequent prenatal visits
Your health, and the growth and development of your baby, must be closely monitored.
1 min to read
The Sixth Month of Pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 23-27. Your baby develops movements that will later help it take its first whiff of air in the world, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid.
2 mins to read
Nutrition during pregnancy
By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.
Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy
5 mins to read
Variations and interventions in labour and birth
Each woman’s labour is unique and unpredictable. It is important therefore that you are prepared for all the possible eventualities and you keep an open mind.
1 min to read
Nutrition
Your nutritional status at the time of conception and in the crucial early weeks of pregnancy is significant for the successful outcome of the pregnancy.
1 min to read
Criteria for prenatal classes
Instructor’s credentials, for example, midwife, physiotherapist.
Instructor’s specialised training in childbirth education.
5 mins to read
Tips to budget for baby
There are many factors to consider before dedicating yourself to raising and budgeting a child for the next 18 years or more.
5 mins to read
