Week 1–2: Conception

During the first two weeks of pregnancy, you’re not technically pregnant yet! Your body is getting ready and ovulation is approaching, with conception typically happening around this time. Around day 14 of your cycle, an egg is released from your ovary; this marks the start of your baby’s journey.

Week 3: Fertilisation and Implantation

The fertilised egg becomes a tiny ball of cells known as a zygote. This little zygote travels to your uterus and begins to implant into the uterine lining. During this time, you may not even know that you’re pregnant, but some women experience some very early signs such as light spotting (called implantation bleeding) or mild cramping. 

Week 4: Embryo Development

The fertilised egg is now officially called an embryo. Although it's still smaller than a grain of rice, your baby is already growing at an incredible rate. The embryo is busy forming the neural tube, which will eventually become the brain and spinal cord. Your body begins producing pregnancy hormones and you may start feeling those early pregnancy symptoms.

Organ Development

This month, your baby’s tiny lungs connect to the throat through small breathing tubes. The heart, while still developing, is already beating at about 140-150 beats per minute. The amniotic sac, filled with protective amniotic fluid, is fully formed and will safeguard your baby until birth. The neural tube, which will develop into the brain and spinal cord, is forming during this critical period.

Physical Features

Your baby is beginning to look more human. Early facial features like the eyes, nose, and ears are taking shape. The eyelids are forming but will remain closed until later in the second trimester. Small buds that will become arms and legs are emerging, along with tiny paddles that will eventually form hands and feet.

Weight of the Foetus

By the end of week eight, your baby officially transitions from an embryo to a foetus. At the close of the second month, your baby is about the size of a kidney bean, measuring approximately 1.2 cm in length and weighing less than 1 gram.

Baby Movement

Although you can’t feel it yet, your baby is making tiny movements. These faint motions result from developing muscles and nerves.

Missed Period
One of the earliest changes your body goes through is it stops the menstrual cycle. You stop having your periods from conception till the baby is delivered. 

Breast Tenderness
Your breasts may become swollen, tender, or sensitive as your body starts preparing for breastfeeding. You may also notice darkening of the areolas and more prominent veins due to increased blood flow.

Bloating
Hormonal shifts, particularly an increase in progesterone, can slow digestion, leading to bloating and mild discomfort. Your stomach may feel fuller than usual, even though you’re not visibly pregnant yet.

Increased Basal Body Temperature
You may notice a slight rise in your basal body temperature, which remains elevated due to increased progesterone levels, an early indicator of pregnancy. It’s normal and nothing to worry about.

Mild Spotting
Some women experience light spotting, known as implantation bleeding, when the fertilised egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. It is usually lighter and shorter than a typical period.

Skin Sensitivity
Due to increased blood circulation and hormonal changes, you may experience more sensitive or dry skin. Skin in some places, like the face, may also darken due to a natural increase in melanin. 

Foods to Eat:

• Folic Acid: This vitamin is critical for preventing neural tube defects. Stock up on leafy greens, beans, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals.
• Protein: Proteins are vital for the growth of your baby. Include lean meats, eggs, beans, lentils, and nuts in your diet.
• Whole Grains: Whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oats offer slow-releasing energy to keep you going.
• Calcium: This mineral is important for your baby’s bones and teeth. Dairy products, almonds, and tofu are great sources of calcium.
• Iron: This mineral helps your body create the extra blood needed during pregnancy. Spinach, lentils, and lean meats are good choices of iron.

Foods to Avoid:

• Raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and fish: These can carry bacteria or parasites like salmonella, which can be harmful to you and your baby.
• High-mercury fish: Avoid large fishes like swordfish, shark, or king mackerel, as they can contain high levels of mercury.
• Unpasteurised dairy: This can contain bacteria like listeria, which may be harmful during pregnancy.
• Caffeine: Limit your caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day (about one cup of coffee) to avoid potential risks.
• Alcohol: There’s no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. 
   

Safe Exercises to Do:

• Walking: A simple, low-impact exercise that keeps you moving and boosts your mood.
• Prenatal yoga: A wonderful way to improve flexibility and reduce stress.
• Swimming: Perfect for staying fit without putting strain on your joints.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening these muscles can help support your growing uterus and prepare you for delivery.

Exercises to Avoid:

• High-impact activities: Running, jumping, and other intense workouts can put too much strain on your body.
• Contact sports: Sports like football, hockey, or anything with a risk of abdominal injury should be avoided.
• Hot yoga or saunas: Raising your body temperature too high can increase the risk of complications.

• First Prenatal Visit
  Schedule your first prenatal appointment to confirm the pregnancy and establish care. The doctor will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and discuss lifestyle adjustments.
• Blood Tests
  Blood tests are conducted to confirm pregnancy through hCG levels and assess overall health, including blood type, Rh factor, haemoglobin levels, and immunity to various diseases.
• Urine Tests
  Urine tests check for infections, sugar levels, and proteins, helping to detect early signs of pregnancy-related conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) or gestational diabetes.
• Early Ultrasound (If Needed)
  In some cases, the doctor may recommend an early transvaginal ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy, check the gestational sac, and rule out ectopic pregnancy. This scan can also help estimate the due date.
• Mental Health
  A mother’s mental health affects both her well-being and the fetal environment.  Factors like hormonal changes, stress, or pre-existing conditions can lead to symptoms such as mood swings, persistent worry, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities.
  Prioritise self-care with a balanced diet, relaxation techniques, and safe exercises. Seek support from loved ones or professionals, and remember, you’re not alone—help is just a thought away.