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Week 4 of Pregnancy

Week 4 marks the start of your pregnancy journey with early signs like mild cramping, spotting, and breast tenderness. Discover your body’s changes.

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Week 4 Pregnancy Symptoms

Early pregnancy signs may include a missed period, mild cramping, spotting, breast tenderness, nausea, fatigue, or emotional changes. Tracking symptoms can offer more clarity.

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  • Bloating: Progesterone can cause mild bloating, making you feel a bit puffier. Comfortable clothing is recommended!
  • Mild Cramping: Cramping at Week 4 may indicate the embryo has successfully implanted in the uterine lining. However, any severe cramping should be reported to your doctor immediately.
  • Spotting: Light bleeding, known as implantation bleeding, can occur during Week 4 and is perfectly normal. If it’s heavy or lasts more than a couple of days, consult your doctor.
  • Mood Swings: Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings during early pregnancy. These are most pronounced in the first trimester but should stabilize as pregnancy progresses.
  • Morning Sickness: Morning sickness, affecting 50-90% of pregnant women, typically begins by Week 4. Nausea and vomiting may peak at around nine weeks and generally improve by the second trimester.
  • Fatigue: Extreme fatigue is common at 4 weeks pregnant, as your body works hard to support the growth of the embryo.

Your Baby in Week 4

At this point, your baby is still very tiny but very active at a cell level. Fertilisation has been successful, and the embryo is growing quickly. 

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Your Baby’s Growth in the Womb

  • Organ Development: The cells in the embryo are hard at work, dividing and arranging themselves to form organs. The neural tube, which will become the brain and spinal cord, is one of the earliest structures that will develop.
  • Physical Features: Right now, your baby doesn’t have visible features, but this period is critical. The cellular groundwork being laid will lead to the formation of limbs, organs, and facial features over time.
  • Weight of the Child: At this stage, your baby is almost weightless—about the size of a poppy seed. Despite being so tiny, the growth that occurs here is tremendous and rapid.
  • Baby Movement: There won’t be any movement you can feel, but the embryo is progressing steadily toward further development, preparing for significant milestones. It’s like a tiny spark of life that’s just starting its journey.
     

Here is what your baby looks like

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At 4 weeks, a tiny miracle begins its journey. Trust your body, cherish the process, and know you're already a great mom in the making!

Dr. Veena H

Your Body in Week 4 of Pregnancy

Your body is already adjusting to support this new life. The uterine lining is thickening, creating a nurturing environment for the embryo. Hormonal changes are also in full swing.

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  • Breast Changes: Some women experience tenderness or swelling in their breasts due to rising hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. This is one of the most common signs of early pregnancy.
  • Hair, Skin, Nails: Hormone changes can cause small changes in your appearance, like in your skin and hair. It’s early, but some people notice the production of natural oils in their hair and skin and increased sensitivity of the skin.
  • Respiratory, Cardiovascular: Your body adjusts blood flow to support the growing embryo. Some women notice a slightly elevated heart rate or feel a bit more breathless than usual.
  • Vaginal Discharge: An increase in cervical mucus is normal, and some people may even experience slight spotting from implantation.
  • Uterus Size and Position: Although the uterus is still very small, it’s already preparing to nurture the embryo.
  • Placenta Position: The placenta, which will nourish the baby, is starting to form. Soon it will provide essential nutrients and oxygen to support the baby’s development.
     

TopTips for Week 4

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Dental hygiene

Having healthy teeth and gums matters as poor dental care is linked to premature labour.

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Preterm signs

If you suspect early labour, read up on premature delivery and baby care essentials.

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Take Prenatal Vitamins

Ensure you take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy and the postpartum period

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Prenatal guide

Attend all your prenatal appointments like vaccinations, tests, ultrasounds
to track vitals 

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Stay active 

A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

Many women begin using at-home pregnancy test to confirm their pregnancy. HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels are often high enough to be detected by a home pregnancy test. 
 

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  • Blood Tests: Blood tests are used to confirm pregnancy, check for vitamin deficiencies, detect infections, and assess overall health. These tests help monitor the early stages of pregnancy and ensure proper care.
  • Urine Tests: Urine tests are commonly used to detect pregnancy by measuring the levels of hCG, the hormone produced after fertilization. These tests are usually done at home or in a healthcare setting to confirm pregnancy.
  • Ultrasounds: Ultrasounds in early pregnancy are non-invasive, painless scans used to confirm the number of babies and estimate the due date. They help monitor early fetal development and detect any potential concerns.
  • Diagnostic Testing (if needed): If there is a family history of genetic disorders, advanced maternal age, or specific conditions that could complicate pregnancy, diagnostic tests like chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis may be recommended to assess the baby's health.

FAQs

Why do I feel cramps in the fourth week of my pregnancy?

Mild cramps can occur as the uterus starts to adapt to the implanted embryo. It’s normal, but if it feels intense, checking with your healthcare provider is always a good idea.

Why am I feeling suddenly feeling emotional in the fourth week of pregnancy?

Hormonal shifts can impact your mood, making you feel more sensitive. It’s normal, and finding ways to relax or talk about it can help.

Is it safe to exercise?

Light activities, like walking or gentle stretching, are generally safe, but consult your doctor for specific advice.

What should I eat during the early days of my pregnancy?

Eating balanced meals rich in folic acid, iron, and calcium is important. Folic acid is particularly critical now, as it supports neural tube development.

What size is my baby in Week 4?

Your baby is about the size of a poppy seed, so small but filled with potential.

Is spotting normal in the fourth week of pregnancy?

Light spotting, especially implantation bleeding, is common. However, if you’re worried, speak with your healthcare provider.

Is increased discharge a concern?

Increased cervical mucus is a normal response to pregnancy hormones and isn’t typically a concern unless accompanied by an unusual odour or colour.

What are common symptoms I can expect if I am 4 weeks pregnant?

At 4 weeks pregnant, some common symptoms include mild cramping, light spotting, tiredness, sore breasts, and mood swings. Some people may also experience nausea or feel more sensitive to smells. However, symptoms vary, and it's normal if you don't notice many changes either.