In the week 4, your baby is
the size of a Poppy Seed
Week 4 marks the start of your pregnancy journey with early signs like mild cramping, spotting, and breast tenderness. Discover your body’s changes.
Week 4 of pregnancy marks the official start of your journey. The embryo has likely attached to the uterine lining, and your body is beginning to change. Though symptoms may be subtle, this week is crucial as both your body and the embryo prepare for the weeks ahead.
Early pregnancy signs may include a missed period, mild cramping, spotting, breast tenderness, nausea, fatigue, or emotional changes. Tracking symptoms can offer more clarity.
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 few 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 stabilise 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 embryo's growth.
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.
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 to develop.
Physical Features
Your baby doesn’t have visible features right now, but this period is critical. The cellular groundwork being laid will eventually lead to the formation of limbs, organs, and facial features.
Weight of the Child
Your baby is almost weightless at this stage—about the size of a poppy seed. Despite being so tiny, the growth here is tremendous and rapid.
Baby Movement
There won’t be any perceptible movement, but the embryo progresses steadily toward further development, preparing for significant milestones. It’s like a tiny spark of life just starting its journey.
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!
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.
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
Hormonal fluctuations can cause slight changes in your appearance, like skin and hair. It’s early, but some people notice the production of natural oils in their hair and skin and an increased skin sensitivity.
Respiratory, Cardiovascular
Your body adjusts blood flow to support the growing embryo. Some women notice a slightly elevated heart rate or feel more breathless than usual.
Vaginal Discharge
An increase in cervical mucus is normal; some people may even experience slight spotting resulting 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.
Preterm signs
If you suspect early labour, read up on premature delivery and baby care essentials
Dental hygiene
Having healthy teeth and gums matters as poor dental care is linked to premature labour.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure you take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy and the postpartum period
Prenatal guide
Attend all your prenatal appointments like vaccinations, tests, ultrasounds
to track vitals
Stay active
A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.
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.
Blood Tests
Blood tests confirm pregnancy, check 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 fertilisation. These tests are usually done at home or in healthcare 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. However, week 4 is too early to see detailed images of the baby.
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.
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.
Light activities, like walking or gentle stretching, are generally safe, but consult your doctor for specific advice.
Eating balanced meals rich in folic acid, iron, and calcium is important. Folic acid is particularly critical now, as it supports neural tube development.
Your baby is about the size of a poppy seed, so small but filled with potential.
Light spotting, especially implantation bleeding, is common. However, if you’re worried, speak with your healthcare provider.
Increased cervical mucus is a normal response to pregnancy hormones and isn’t typically a concern unless accompanied by an unusual odour or colour.
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.
