In the week 7, your baby is
the size of a Blueberry
In Week 7 of pregnancy, your baby’s growth accelerates! Expect new symptoms, changes in your body, and exciting early developments as you move forward.
Week 7 is an exciting time in your pregnancy journey. Your little one is growing rapidly, and your body is undergoing some significant changes too. Here's what you can expect during this week of your pregnancy.
At week 7, you may start experiencing some common pregnancy symptoms, including
Fatigue
Your body works hard to support your growing baby, so you may feel more tired than usual. Take breaks and rest when you need to.
Nausea
Morning sickness is a common symptom during this time. Try eating small, frequent meals and avoiding triggers like strong smells.
Frequent urination
Your growing uterus may pressure your bladder, leading to more frequent bathroom trips.
Breast changes
Your breasts may feel tender and grow as they prepare for breastfeeding.
Food aversions
You may experience strong food aversions and heightened sensitivity to certain smells, which hormonal changes can trigger.
Skin pigmentation
Hormonal changes may cause dark patches on your face, commonly called the 'pregnancy mask.'
Remember, every pregnancy is different, and you may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms.
At week 7, your baby's brain, spinal cord, and heart are developing rapidly. Tiny limbs, eyes, and ears are forming. About the size of a blueberry, they’re growing quickly!
Baby's Lifeline
By week 7 of pregnancy, the umbilical cord is fully formed, resembling a thick rope with spirals or coils. This vital connection between your baby and the placenta delivers oxygen and nutrients while also removing the baby's waste into your bloodstream.
Kidneys
Your baby’s kidneys are now developed and ready to begin managing waste. They will soon start producing urine.
Cervical Plug
A layer of mucus, known as the cervical plug, forms over the cervix to protect and seal the entrance to the womb.
Organ Development
The brain and spinal cord are forming rapidly. The heart is beating at a steady pace and pumping blood. The digestive system is beginning to develop.
Physical Features
Your baby's head is large compared to the rest of the body. Tiny buds that will become arms and legs are starting to form. The eyes and ears are beginning to develop.
Weight of the Foetus
At week 7, your baby is about the size of a blueberry. They weigh less than 1 gram but are growing quickly.
Embrace the journey, for within you grows a life that will fill your heart with more love than you ever imagined. You're doing an amazing job, mama!
Your body is going through some incredible changes to support your growing baby:
Breast Changes
Along with tenderness and an increase in breast size, your areolas—the dark area around the nipples—may become more dark and pigmented.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular System
You may feel short of breath at times as your heart is working harder to pump more blood to support your baby.
Vaginal Discharge
You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which is normal. Talk to your doctor if the discharge has a strong odour or causes itching.
Excess Saliva
Here’s a symptom you didn’t expect! Excess saliva is likely hormonally triggered and could be linked to nausea as well.
Hair, Skin, and Nails
Hormonal changes can cause acne breakouts or pigmentation patches on the cheeks, known as melasma or the "pregnancy mask." Before using any medication or products, check with your doctor to ensure they’re safe during pregnancy.
Stay active
Keep practising regular prenatal exercises like deep breathing, yoga and moderate walking.
Contraction care
Practice deep breathing and visualization techniques to stay focused during contractions.
Prep for labour
Explore different positions such as walking or squatting to find movement that supports you.
Support circle
Labour can be demanding, surround yourself with loved ones for support and encouragement.
Labor check-up
If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis
At week 7, you may have your first prenatal appointment. Here's what to expect:
Ultrasound
An ultrasound at 7 weeks can detect the embryo, establish a due date, and sometimes detect a heartbeat, though many doctors wait until week 8 for confirmation.
If you have a 7-week ultrasound, it’s likely to be transvaginal, using a wand-shaped probe for more accurate readings—rest assured, this is a standard procedure.
Blood tests
Your doctor may advise blood tests to check your hormone levels, blood type, and Rh factor. They may also check ferritin levels for anaemia risk and screen for infections like rubella and sexually transmitted infections.
Genetic screening
If you're over 35 or have a family history of genetic disorders, your doctor may discuss genetic screening options with you.
Yes, exercise is generally safe and recommended during pregnancy. However, talk to your doctor about any restrictions or modifications you may need to make.
Light spotting can be normal, but if you have heavy bleeding or cramping, contact your doctor right away.
Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, fish high in mercury, and unpasteurised dairy products.
Try eating small, frequent meals, avoiding triggers like strong smells, and staying hydrated. Ginger tea or crackers may help settle your stomach.
Every woman is different, but most start to show between 12-16 weeks. If you're very thin or this is your second pregnancy, you may show earlier.
Yes, hormonal changes can make you feel more emotional or prone to mood swings. Talk to your partner or a trusted friend about how you're feeling.
Generally, yes. However, if you have any complications or are experiencing severe morning sickness, talk to your doctor before making travel plans.
Listen to your body and rest when you need to. Try to get enough sleep at night and take short naps during the day if possible. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can also help.
