Embryo development at 7 weeks. All about the seventh week of pregnancy
This article talks about the 7th week of pregnancy. You will find out what happens to the baby and mother during this period. We will give advice on how a woman should behave so that her pregnancy proceeds for the benefit of herself and the unborn child.
7th week of pregnancy - signs and symptoms
At 7 weeks of pregnancy, the belly is already slightly visible
The seventh week of pregnancy, like earlier ones, is accompanied by hormonal changes in the woman’s body and active growth embryo. All this, in addition to joyful emotions, can cause discomfort and pain to the expectant mother.
At 7 weeks pregnant, a woman may experience nausea and vomiting. Toxicosis at 7 weeks of pregnancy is a fairly common condition. Most often it occurs during awakening. In rare cases, nausea accompanies a woman throughout the day.
In the seventh week of pregnancy, the discharge becomes more abundant. Thanks to them, the approaches to the uterus are blocked, which prevents infection of the fetus.
During this period, those around you may still have no idea that pregnancy has occurred. Weight remains the same or increases slightly. This is achieved by increasing the breast and blood volume. The belly at the 7th week of pregnancy (photo below) may increase slightly at this stage. It's not because there's a baby growing inside of you. Now he is still very small. The deposition of the subcutaneous fat layer is associated with increased appetite against the background of hormonal changes in the body.
Now a pregnant woman may change her taste preferences. Also during pregnancy, metabolic processes slow down and muscle tone decreases, which can cause bloating.
Some women become lethargic and constantly feel sleepy. This is due to the fact that the body devotes a lot of energy to protecting the fetus. Also during this period, the expectant mother experiences a frequent urge to urinate due to increased pressure on the bladder, which prevents her from getting a good night's sleep.
During this period, body temperature is sometimes observed above average. This is how your body reacts to changes occurring in it. A temperature of 37 at 7 weeks of pregnancy is normal.
Changes in the mother's body at 7 weeks of pregnancy
During the seventh week of pregnancy, the following changes occur in the mother’s body:
- breast enlargement;
- redistribution of adipose tissue;
- deterioration of skin color;
- excessive salivation;
- problems with stool and digestion;
- change in color of the labia;
- the appearance of swelling due to stagnation of blood and an increase in its volume.
At this time, the parapapillary halos darken, and a dark stripe may appear on the abdomen. During this period, skin color deteriorates. It becomes excessively oily, acne appears and dark spots. Due to the renewal of vaginal tissue, the discharge becomes yellow.
Feelings in the seventh week of pregnancy
The main changes are associated with breast enlargement and painful sensations in it. The size of the uterus also increases at 7 weeks of pregnancy. A growing uterus can cause some discomfort in the form of nagging pain on the sides of the abdomen. During this period, a pregnant woman experiences mood swings. She often feels irritated. Insomnia may occur.
What happens to the embryo at 7 weeks of pregnancy
Already at 7 weeks of pregnancy, an ultrasound can distinguish the head and body of the baby. The connection between the child and the mother becomes closer: placentation is actively taking place, the embryo is no longer autonomous, as it was just a month ago. The fingers and toes are already clearly visible. The baby brings his hands to his face, and the first sucking movements appear. The child does not have eyelids yet, so the eyes appear wide open. The brow ridges are well developed. The formation of baby teeth begins.
At 7 weeks of pregnancy, the embryo develops kidneys, adrenal glands, and ureters. By this time, the septa of the heart are already fully formed. The heart rate at 7 weeks of pregnancy is 130-160 beats per minute. Large blood vessels are actively formed. The brain is divided into hemispheres.
Now the baby already has phases of sleep and wakefulness. During the “daytime”, he behaves more actively, swims in the anatomical fluid, pushing off the walls of the uterus with his legs. Thanks to active movements, blood circulation in the fetus increases, and tissue formation occurs more quickly.
During this period, the child is very susceptible to the mood and condition of the mother.
Young mothers with their first pregnancy do not always know what CTE is on ultrasound during pregnancy 6-7 weeks? The coccygeal-parietal size (fetal CTR) is the length of the embryo in millimeters. If the ultrasound data corresponds to the norms, then the child has no abnormalities. If the size is below normal, this indicates a developmental delay.
At 7 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the fetus (ultrasound photo below) reaches 18 mm, weight - 1.7 grams. At this stage, an ultrasound examination will not yet show the sex of the child.
Ultrasound of the fetus at 7 weeks of pregnancy
Ultrasound at 7 weeks of pregnancy
Many women ask the question: is it possible to do an ultrasound at 7 weeks of pregnancy? At this stage, ultrasound diagnostics is a voluntary decision of the mother. If the doctor has any suspicions or the pregnancy is accompanied by painful sensations, an ultrasound will help determine multiple births and possible threats of miscarriage or missed abortion. Diagnostics will determine the condition and tone of the uterus and will help in detecting possible fibroids. An ultrasound also evaluates the condition of the female organs and sets the date of birth.
What you need to know about the seventh week of pregnancy
If you have not yet registered at the women's clinic, then at 7 weeks of pregnancy it is time to see a doctor. You will be assigned a large number of tests:
- measurement of pelvic volume, weight and height;
- blood pressure measurement;
- general blood test: group, Rh factor, blood sugar, hCG, HIV, RW;
- coagulogram;
- general urine analysis;
- analysis of stool for helminth eggs;
- vaginal smear to examine flora and identify STDs;
- bacterial culture from the nose;
- Ultrasound screening.
The hCG level at 7 weeks of pregnancy is 2560 - 82300 mIU/ml. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is one of the most important indicators of the successful development of pregnancy. It stimulates the production of the hormones progesterone and estrogens, which are necessary for the successful bearing of a child. The production of hormones occurs until the “fetus-placenta” system begins to independently form the necessary hormonal background.
Progesterone is responsible for the maintenance and development of pregnancy. The hormone is produced in the ovaries and increases significantly during pregnancy. It supports the intrauterine life of the fetus. The normal progesterone level at 7 weeks of pregnancy is 32.98 nmol/l.
Lifestyle in the seventh week of pregnancy
Now a woman needs to take care of herself and the baby, so she will have to give up some habits and follow these rules:
- You should not take hot baths.
- Avoid high heels.
- Take care of yours state of mind, be less nervous.
- You should not get involved in active sports. Avoid strenuous physical activity.
Nutrition at 7 weeks of pregnancy
Sometimes at 7 weeks of pregnancy women develop an aversion to meat. But protein is still necessary for both the expectant mother and her child. Replace meat with legumes and dairy products.
Also, do not stop taking vitamins and minerals. It is not necessary to use drugs. You can replace them with seasonal fruits and vegetables.
What can go wrong at 7 weeks pregnant?
During this period, a woman should listen sensitively to her own body. Now there is still a high probability of miscarriage. The expectant mother should consult a doctor in the following cases:
- bloody issues;
- bleeding;
- elevated temperature;
- pain in the lower abdomen and lower back;
- severe toxicosis.
Discharge at 7 weeks of pregnancy
If the discharge becomes bloody during the 7th week of pregnancy, you should immediately consult a gynecologist. This may mean that the uterus is hypertonic. Increased tone uterus can lead to miscarriage.
Sometimes discharge may indicate cervical erosion. Now surgical intervention no one will do it. To reduce discomfort in such cases, doctors prescribe herbal suppositories.
Bleeding at 7 weeks of pregnancy
Bleeding at 7 weeks of pregnancy is a dangerous symptom. It may develop gradually, with a few bright red drops, or it may begin immediately and profusely.
Most likely, you will be put on storage. The risk of miscarriage this week is still quite high, but there is a good chance of saving the baby.
In addition to the threat of miscarriage, bleeding at 7 weeks of pregnancy may indicate the presence of the following diseases:
- polyps and other tumors in the cervix and uterus;
- cervical erosion.
In any case, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will make the correct diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Temperature at 7 weeks of pregnancy
At 7 weeks of pregnancy, a slightly elevated body temperature is normal. If the temperature remains at 38 degrees or higher for more than 2 days, you need to consult a doctor and immediately begin therapy. You should not self-medicate and take pharmaceuticals at your own discretion.
If the temperature is accompanied by a cough, sore throat, runny nose, try to avoid chemicals. Drink more, gargle more often. Now herbal teas, decoctions and infusions are well suited for internal use and gargling. Be sure to maintain bed rest.
Toxicosis at 7 weeks of pregnancy
During this period, toxicosis may continue. It will disappear by 12-13 weeks of pregnancy.
Signs of toxicosis can be alleviated by following these rules:
- Follow a daily routine. Go to bed on time, spend more time outdoors.
- Eat right, prioritize healthy food. Give up bad habits.
- Buy special vitamins for toxicosis at the pharmacy. It is better to discuss their use with your gynecologist.
Some pregnant women claim that frequent consumption of salted nuts or various dried fruits helps them escape from toxicosis. Ginger or mint tea with lemon and honey relieves nausea well. It is useful and effective in the fight against toxicosis to drink 1 glass of freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit juice per day.
However, these measures are not suitable for all women. If the above methods do not help, the doctor will admit you to the hospital. Here you will be prescribed medications to help relieve the symptoms of severe toxicosis.
Miscarriage at 7 weeks of pregnancy
The most common reasons miscarriage at this time:
- genetic disorders in the fetus;
- hormonal disorders in a woman’s body;
- sexual infections;
- inflammatory diseases;
- previous abortions;
- taking medications and herbs;
- stress, unhealthy lifestyle;
- big physical exercise.
When a woman has a miscarriage at 7 weeks of pregnancy, she experiences slight bleeding or more severe blood loss (as during menstruation). Chorionic detachment occurs, and the embryo is washed out of the uterus through the bloodstream. A woman may not even notice this and mistake the embryo for a blood clot, because the size of the fetus at this stage is very small.
If you experience spotting or severe pain in the lower abdomen, go to a medical facility immediately.
Pain in the abdomen and lower back at 7 weeks of pregnancy
Now the uterus is actively growing. This causes nagging pain in the lower abdomen. If they are sporadic, then there is no need to worry. Sometimes during this period women experience lower back pain. This is due to stretching of organ ligaments and their displacement.
When the pain does not go away for a long time or is cramping in nature, you should consult a doctor. Pain in the abdomen and lower back can be a sign of a threatened miscarriage or missed abortion.
Frozen pregnancy at 7 weeks
In most cases, frozen pregnancy occurs during early stages(up to 14 weeks). The most common causes of missed abortion are:
- chromosomal or genetic errors;
- hormonal disorders and autoimmune diseases;
- anembryonic pregnancy;
- infectious diseases;
- overweight or underweight;
- pathology of the uterus;
- taking certain medications, intoxication with chemical vapors;
- multiple pregnancy;
- bad habits(alcohol, smoking).
Signs of a frozen pregnancy at 7 weeks of pregnancy:
- spotting at 7 weeks of pregnancy;
- at 7 weeks of pregnancy, the lower abdomen pulls;
- lower back pain at 7 weeks of pregnancy;
- toxicosis stopped (nausea, vomiting, dizziness, etc. disappeared);
- breast pain stopped at 7 weeks of pregnancy;
- body temperature increased to 37.5 C or higher.
In some cases, during a frozen pregnancy, the temperature may remain within normal limits.
These signs can occur during a normal course or during ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, if you have even the slightest concern, consult a doctor. He will appoint necessary tests to minimize complications for the mother and unborn child.
Is it possible to have sex at 7 weeks pregnant?
Is it possible to have sex at 7 weeks pregnant? During this period, some women experience increased libido. The 7th week of pregnancy, if the child is born without any deviations, is not a reason to deny yourself and your partner sex.
For more information about the 7th week of pregnancy, watch the video:
What to remember
- From the article you learned what happens to the baby and mother at 7 weeks of pregnancy. The future of the mother and fetus now largely depends on the woman’s health. It is worth reconsidering your habits and nutrition.
- The development of the child at 7 weeks of pregnancy is very active. Now this is no longer a fertilized egg, but a little man with a head, body and fingers. The formation of internal organs continues.
- Blood during early pregnancy (6-7 weeks) is a dangerous sign. This may signal a miscarriage. You must consult a doctor immediately.
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What happens: the embryo straightens, the formation of the face continues, and the fingers stand out. In the seventh week of pregnancy, the heart is divided into four chambers, but it is not yet in its place. The brain is divided into two hemispheres. A mucous plug is formed, which protects the child from the influence of external factors. Gender identification occurs.
Fetal height is 13 mm, weight is 1.1-1.3 g. At this time, you need to register, if this has not already been done. The doctor must order tests, determine the risk group and potential dangers of pregnancy.
Swelling may join the already familiar symptoms; the uterus increases in size, this leads to mild pain in the abdomen and groin, and increased urination; A dark line may form on the abdomen as a result of pigmentation disorders.
The expectant mother gradually gets used to the sensations that accompany her first weeks of pregnancy. To alleviate the condition, you should avoid high heels, hot baths and saunas, and minimize physical and emotional stress.
You need to monitor the discharge. If, in parallel with cramping pain in the abdomen, a bloody “smear” appears, there is a risk of “miscarriage”.
An ultrasound photo of the baby will already make it possible to determine its size, but it is still very early to find out the gender.
At the 7th week of pregnancy, the baby pleases us with its rapid development. The little heart has finally formed completely, and now two atria and two ventricles can be distinguished in it, just like in an adult. However, it has not yet taken the place allotted to it by nature in the body. The first red blood cells appeared in the peripheral blood.
Other systems do not lag behind the cardiovascular system. Active changes are also taking place in the digestive system: the baby’s intestines are growing in length, and the large intestine and appendix have already formed. The pancreas produces the first portion of the hormone insulin. And the first bile ducts are formed in the liver.
Briefly about the main thing
Gradually, the embryo straightens, the space between the head and the body becomes thinner and a prototype of the neck appears. The head is now much larger than the body, and this is no coincidence, because the brain is actively growing and developing. At week 7, it has already divided into two hemispheres and actively controls the processes occurring in the embryo, including sending motor impulses to the muscles, and the embryo moves.
The respiratory and endocrine systems also improve, the kidneys and reproductive system develop. The gonads begin to form into the ovaries or testes. However, on Ultrasound Determining the sex of a child is now quite difficult.
The limbs of the fetus develop. The arms are ahead of the legs in development. They lengthen and acquire the ability to flex the elbow and wrist. The palm and finger buds are formed. The boundaries of the shoulders and forearms are determined. And the legs are still small fins.
Parts of the face are actively developing. The inner and outer ears are forming, the rudiments of the auricles are already visible. The eyes are still far apart, and the embryo looks like a small alien. However, the iris of the eyes, retinal pigments and eyelashes on the eyelids have already formed. The nose is also developing, and small nostrils can already be distinguished. Formed upper lip and jaws. This gives impetus to the formation of baby teeth.
By the 7th week, the umbilical cord has finally formed; if previously it contained two veins, now the right one disappears, only the left one remains. And since the umbilical cord has formed, it means that uteroplacental blood flow has also been established, the placenta at this stage becomes denser, but its full development will occur only by the 12th week.
Feel
During this period, a woman still has the same sensations, nausea and vomiting in the morning continues, and frequent urination, which is associated with an increase in the volume of circulating blood. They may suffer from headaches, drowsiness, increased fatigue, frequent mood swings, increased irritability, and tearfulness. The breasts become larger, the tingling continues, the nipples darken, and their sensitivity increases. Constipation, bloating, and heartburn may occur. Due to changes that occur against the background of hormonal changes in the body, every tenth woman experiences a decrease in blood pressure in the first months of pregnancy. This can cause dizziness and fainting. But these side effects may be symptoms of anemia. Regular observation of a pregnant woman by a doctor, monitoring of tests and timely prescription of medications will prevent this complication.
A woman may notice the appearance of edema, this is due to the fact that for normal pregnancy characterized by fluid retention in the body, as well as an increase in the volume of circulating blood, changes in the functioning of the kidneys and heart. Most often, swelling is observed in the ankles, shins, and fingers and can worsen during hot weather.
Stomach ache
Many women at this stage report pain on the sides of the abdomen, most often with tension in the uterine ligaments due to its growth. But pain in the lower abdomen should be alarming, especially if it is accompanied by bloody discharge and has a cramping, pulling nature. If this is accompanied by lower back pain, you should urgently consult a doctor - there may be a risk of miscarriage.
Fetus and belly size
The fetus is actively growing and developing, and by 7 weeks its height is 13 mm and its weight is 1.1-1.3 g. At this time, the baby begins to move, but the mother cannot yet appreciate his efforts. The uteroplacental circulation has formed, which means that the child’s body is almost completely dependent on the mother, which means she needs to give up smoking (if she has not already done so) and alcohol, now she must monitor her diet more closely, because What she eats affects the baby’s condition. Well, an ultrasound can show whether the pregnancy is progressing intrauterinely, the number of fetuses, how they are fixed in the uterus, their movements, and you can also hear their heartbeat. Also, using ultrasound, you can detect inflammation of the uterus and bladder, as well as detect fibroids.
The uterus has already increased in size, but this is not yet enough for the abdomen to increase, so so far nothing has changed.
Dangers
In addition to the dangers described in the earlier weeks of pregnancy, another one is added. Once at the 7th week of pregnancy, red blood cells appear in the peripheral blood of the fetus, which means that its Rh factor is also determined. The Rh factor is a protein on the surface of the red blood cell; if present, the Rh factor is positive; if absent, the Rh factor is negative. In 85% of people the Rh factor is positive, in the remaining 15% it is negative. Why is it important to know this? The fact is that if parents have different Rh factors, this can lead to an unpleasant situation during pregnancy - to Rh conflict. If a child inherits the father’s Rh factor, it means that an organism with a Rh factor that is foreign to her will develop in the mother’s body, as a result of which her body will produce Rh antibodies, which are designed to attack the foreign organism. As a result of this attack, the red blood cells of the fetus are destroyed, which leads to anemia and hypoxia. The breakdown products of red blood cells have a toxic effect on the body of both mother and child. Usually, the first pregnancy with an Rh conflict proceeds normally, but the second is fraught with miscarriage. To avoid the unpleasant consequences of a Rh conflict, you need to take measures in advance - no later than 7-8 weeks, find out your Rh factor and the father of the child, if they differ, get tested for the presence Rh antibodies and donate them every href="/devyatyj-mesyac-beremennosti/">9 months. If antibodies are detected at any time, it is necessary to undergo examination at a clinic specializing in this problem; if antibodies are not detected, continue to be observed in the antenatal clinic.
Nutrition
Since uteroplacental circulation has been established at this stage, it is necessary to monitor nutrition even more carefully, give up artificial foods in favor of natural ones, eat fruits and vegetables, drink milk, give up salty, smoked and spicy foods - such foods contribute to even greater water retention in the body, which leads to swelling.
If you suffer from dizziness and fainting, you need to drink regularly, if the dizziness is associated with anemia, that is, iron deficiency in the body. Iron is necessary to build the hemoglobin molecule, the main oxygen carrier. An existing deficiency is difficult to eliminate with food, so doctors most often prescribe iron supplements and multivitamin complexes. But for the prevention of iron deficiency, nutrition is perfect. Daily norm iron for an adult is 1-2 mg per day, and during pregnancy an additional 2.5 mg of iron is required. Foods that are excellent sources of iron are: meat, liver, fish, buckwheat, beans, peas and sprouted wheat. To ensure better absorption of iron, you should eat foods rich in vitamin C, which promotes iron absorption, and try to avoid coffee and tea, which interfere with iron absorption.
What to do
You must register with antenatal clinic, if you have not already done so, find out if you and your family have genetic and chronic diseases. If you have myopia, you should visit an ophthalmologist, because during pregnancy there is additional stress on the blood vessels of the eyes.
It is also necessary to undergo many tests: a clinical blood test, on the basis of which anemia and other blood diseases can be detected; biochemical analysis blood, which allows you to evaluate metabolism and the functioning of major internal organs; an analysis to determine the blood group and Rh factor; if the mother’s blood is Rh negative, the antibody titer is determined, thus determining the risk of developing a hemolytic disease in the child. A coagulogram is performed at the first visit, then according to indications. It evaluates the blood coagulation system of a pregnant woman. A blood test for markers of viral hepatitis B and C, HIV and syphilis - the presence or absence of these diseases is determined, and is usually carried out three times during pregnancy.
But in general, the requirements for a pregnant woman are the same as before - maintain a work and rest schedule, eat regularly, give up heavy physical work, give up high heels, don’t take hot baths and especially saunas, get positive emotions, do your favorite things.
Belly photo
The 7th week of pregnancy is a difficult period for a woman. This is the beginning of the second month from the moment of conception, that is, the period when obvious signs become more and more noticeable. Toxicosis appears or intensifies, the chest may hurt noticeably, and a low-grade fever (37 and slightly higher) is often noted. Let's figure out what happens during this period, which phenomena are the norm, and which sensations should prompt you to immediately consult a doctor.
First, let's figure out what this period is - 7 obstetric weeks. If you count from the moment of conception, the period will be equal to five weeks. The fact is that in obstetric practice it is customary to count the period not from the moment of conception, but from the first day of the menstrual cycle preceding pregnancy.
This is the period at which signs of pregnancy are already obvious. Many expectant mothers experience toxicosis; they begin to feel sick from strong smells in the morning. Many people complain that their chest hurts a lot and their temperature rises to 37 degrees. Let's figure out what happens during this period, what symptoms may indicate that the pregnancy has stopped developing, and what sensations are normal.
How does the expectant mother feel?
The seventh week is the period when not only internal, but also some external changes occur. Of course, the size of your belly has not yet increased, but the skin on your face may become oilier. However, not everyone experiences such symptoms.
The seventh week is the period when you can already register with the consultation. Observation by a doctor and attention to your feelings is the guarantee that the development of pregnancy will proceed normally and the child will be born at the time determined by nature.
Advice! Expectant mothers should know exactly what sensations are normal during this period, and what should make them wary. This is necessary to expectant mother she stopped worrying for no reason and gained confidence that everything would be fine with both her and the baby.
Toxicosis
The strongest “impression” that remains from the seventh week is toxicosis. How does toxicosis manifest itself in the early stages? The most common symptoms:
- Nausea. A pregnant woman can feel sick from anything, especially from strong odors.
- Changing tastes. Sometimes toxicosis is manifested by a change in eating habits; a pregnant woman may feel sick from her previously favorite food.
- Deterioration in health. Toxicosis manifests itself as dizziness, weakness, and drowsiness.
- Emotional instability. This is not a sharp change in character, but just toxicosis, which will soon pass.
Advice! Are there any lucky women who don’t know what toxicosis is? There are also such women, but for most pregnant women, mild toxicosis at this stage is the norm.
How long will the bad health last? It all depends on the characteristics of your body. Some pregnant women note that they stopped vomiting already at 8-9 weeks, others are forced to endure unpleasant symptoms until the period exceeds five months. Both, provided that the symptoms are relatively mild, are the norm.
Hormone levels
One of the most informative tests during this period is the hCG level. An hCG test reflects how pregnancy is progressing, so it is important to know how much of the hormone is in the blood. So, low level hCG is not the norm. Possible deviations:
- a low hCG level may indicate that the embryo is lagging behind in development;
- a low hCG is noted if the development of the fertilized egg has stopped, that is, a low hCG may be a sign of a frozen pregnancy;
- a weak increase in hCG may indicate an ectopic pregnancy.
How many times do you need to donate blood for hCG? Only the doctor leading the pregnancy can say this. If the gestational age is 7 weeks, then the normal hCG level is 50,000 - 200,000. If deviations are detected, the doctor will order a repeat analysis to determine the hCG level and other examinations.
Breast changes
In the seventh week, the breasts continue to grow. However, not everything is so rosy, the breasts not only increase in size, but also hurt. This is not a sign of pathology; the fact that your chest hurts is normal. In addition, breasts can change their appearance:
- nipple halos darken;
- Dark hairs and age spots may appear.
The reason that breasts change their appearance and hurt is a change in hormone levels. But if the breasts stop hurting at this stage, this is also the norm. But if your breasts hurt very badly, you can see smudges on your bra, that is, discharge from the nipples, then you should see a doctor.
Discharge
Particular attention should be paid to discharge from the genital tract. Colorless mucous discharge is normal. But bloody, brown, pink or beige discharge should be a reason to consult a doctor. Not only heavy discharge, but also spotting should alert you. Greenish and greenish discharge is also not normal. gray having an unpleasant odor.
Light pink discharge at week 7 is not always a pathology. A spot may appear after an examination by a gynecologist or after sexual intercourse. However, light pink and brown discharge cannot be ignored.
Sometimes bloody smear is a symptom of an incipient miscarriage. Especially if pink discharge appears on the days when menstruation should occur. It is especially dangerous if the daub appears against the background of pain, the lower abdomen may hurt, or a pregnant woman may experience lower back pain. A dangerous symptom is if the temperature rises above 37 degrees.
Fetus
At week 7, the embryo develops at a rapid pace. Very soon the embryo will look like a human being, but for now it looks like a tadpole. At 7 weeks gestation, the fetus measures approximately 2.5 cm and the embryo weighs approximately 9 grams. The unborn baby is comfortably located in the uterine cavity, and the placenta is forming.
Complications
At week 7, various complications may develop, the most dangerous of which lead to miscarriage or to the fact that the pregnancy has stopped developing.
Frozen pregnancy
Sometimes it happens that at 7 weeks the pregnancy stops developing. In a frozen pregnancy, the death of the fertilized egg is noted, but in a frozen pregnancy there are no signs of miscarriage.
The reasons for a miscarriage at 7 weeks of pregnancy vary, but most often the death of the fertilized egg is caused by an infection. Chronic infection rarely provokes the death of the embryo, but can cause pathology in the development of the fertilized egg.
The cause of frozen pregnancy and death of the fertilized egg can be hormonal disbalance. With a lack of progesterone production, the blood supply to the fetal egg is disrupted, which leads to the death of the embryo. Other causes of missed abortion:
- genetic defects of the ovum;
- thrombotic complications that disrupt the blood supply to the embryo;
- infection enters the uterine cavity, which causes the death of the fertilized egg.
During a frozen pregnancy, the woman’s body does not always independently reject the dead embryo. Often, during a frozen pregnancy, the remains of the dead fertilized egg remain in the uterine cavity. This threatens the development of intoxication, while increasing heat(significantly above 37 degrees), the lower abdomen may hurt greatly.
The danger of a frozen pregnancy is that it may not manifest itself for a long time. If the expectant mother regularly visits the doctor, then diagnosing a frozen pregnancy is not difficult; the death of the ovum can be suspected due to the discrepancy between the size of the uterus and the timing, and an ultrasound at the 7th week of pregnancy will make it possible to make an accurate diagnosis.
In addition, the following symptoms should alert you:
- bloody, brown or pink discharge, and the discharge may not be profuse, that is, not bleeding, but spotting;
- elevated temperature (37 degrees and above);
- constant weakness;
- a sharp cessation of toxicosis - suddenly one day the nausea stopped, the breasts stopped hurting and enlarged;
- My lower abdomen began to hurt constantly.
Temperature
During the first three months, many pregnant women experience low-grade fever - from 37 to 37 and a half degrees. If the development of pregnancy proceeds normally and your health does not deteriorate, then a temperature ranging from 37 to 37 and a half degrees during the first three months is the norm.
The reason why the temperature has risen above 37 degrees may be a cold. A cold during the period when the unborn child is growing in the uterine cavity represents serious threat. Therefore, if your throat begins to hurt and your temperature rises above 37 degrees, you should definitely consult a doctor.
Advice! If possible, colds can be treated without the use of antibiotics. But if a cold causes complications, you cannot do without medication. The doctor determines what medications to take and how long the treatment should last.
Stomach ache
If a pregnant woman begins to have a stomach ache, this cannot but be alarming. If the pain is not severe and intermittent, there is no need to worry. In the early stages, the stomach may hurt from sprained ligaments associated with the growth of the uterus.
But if the pain in the lower abdomen is sharp, cramping and constant, you should not wait for everything to stop hurting on its own. You need to see a doctor and find out why your stomach hurts.
Advice! Abdominal pain may not be related to pregnancy. For example, the stomach may hurt due to the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, you need to be examined and find out what is happening in your body.
So, the 7th week of pregnancy is a rather difficult period for the expectant mother and the unborn child. At this time, it is time to register so that doctors monitor the woman’s health. Pay attention to your well-being and promptly seek help medical care- this is a guarantee that everything will be fine with both the expectant mother and the baby.
Finding out that you are pregnant is always exciting for a woman. This is one of the most significant events in the life of future parents. Often the 6th week of pregnancy brings good news. It is during this period that a woman can more strongly feel the first changes in her body, starting with a delay in menstruation and ending with the appearance of toxicosis. Even if it is not there, other early signs of pregnancy can be noted.
The fetus is already visible on an ultrasound, so you should register with a gynecologist and undergo a series of examinations. Early diagnosis flow intrauterine development the baby will prevent possible negative factors and prevent miscarriage.
Future parents will be interested to know what happens to their baby at 6 weeks of pregnancy, and what the expectant mother should expect from her body. You should also find out what tests you will need to undergo and which doctors to visit.
How to register?
The 6th week of pregnancy requires the expectant mother to undergo a full medical examination. This will identify possible deviations in the development of the embryo and prevent miscarriage.
An ultrasound will help with this, because at this stage the fetus is already visible, as well as the changes that have occurred to it since conception. It should be noted that there are two reference systems that determine the duration of pregnancy.
The first is considered unofficial. It is used by mothers in the early stages of the baby’s intrauterine development. This system counts from the moment of conception. Its disadvantage is that it is impossible to say exactly when fertilization and implantation of the egg occurred.
Therefore, doctors officially use the obstetric counting system. The gestational age is determined from the first day of the last menstruation. There are no inaccuracies here as in the previous approach. Actually 6–7 obstetric week pregnancy is equal to the fourth week from the moment of conception. A visit to a gynecologist and a number of other specialists at this time is extremely important.
Survey
The sixth week of pregnancy is very important to monitor the proper development of the embryo. It is this period that suggests the first ultrasound. If there is no period, but the pregnancy has not yet been officially confirmed, this will be done by an obstetrician-gynecologist after an examination and tests.
It is important to assess the size of the fetus and its development. To prevent miscarriage in the presence of unfavorable factors, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination. The gynecologist will direct the expectant mother to see the following doctors:
- The therapist examines the woman for the presence of common diseases, including chronic ones. If necessary, treatment is prescribed.
- An ophthalmologist assesses the likelihood of developing a woman’s vision pathology and makes recommendations.
- The dentist identifies the presence of investments in the oral cavity. Treatment of teeth and gums occurs. Without this, fetal development may not proceed properly.
- The otolaryngologist determines whether there are hidden or chronic investments in the ears, nose, and throat. They can also complicate pregnancy.
A period of 6 weeks requires a woman to take a responsible attitude towards her health. How the fetus will develop depends on this. Therefore, the examination cannot be postponed.
Analyzes
In addition to the medical specialists listed above, the woman undergoes a number of tests. On their basis, the condition of the expectant mother’s body, as well as the development of the embryo, is assessed. This allows you to identify negative factors in a timely manner and prevent miscarriage. The following tests are prescribed:
- General blood analysis.
- Blood type, its Rh factor.
- Coagulogram (blood clotting).
- Glucose analysis.
- Tests for HIV, RW (syphilis), hepatitis C, B.
- Analysis of urine.
- Vaginal smear.
- TORCH complex.
This is standard procedure. If the lower abdomen hurts, pink, bloody discharge from the genital tract appears, this will be done without delay. Timely diagnosis will prevent miscarriage. Even if the mother’s health does not deviate from the norm, it is necessary to undergo all the necessary tests.
Examination by a gynecologist
In addition to ultrasound, tests and examinations from a number of medical specialists, a period of 6–7 weeks will require an assessment of some parameters of the course of pregnancy by a gynecologist. He conducts the following studies that can provide information about fetal development:
- Size of a woman's pelvis.
- Weight measurement to track weight gain.
- Blood pressure is assessed at the beginning of pregnancy for comparison in the future.
All sensations, complaints of the woman, the presence of toxicosis, abdominal pain are noted by the gynecologist. It is necessary to know how a mother normally feels at 6–7 weeks of fetal development.
What happens in a woman's body?
The 6th week of pregnancy most often does not go unnoticed for the expectant mother. The delay in menstruation has already reached 1-2 weeks. The first sensations and manifestations of toxicosis may appear or occur.
Some people don't show any early signs of pregnancy. But the likelihood of their appearance occurs precisely at 5–6 weeks of fetal development. What a woman can feel during this period, what sensations are considered normal, she should find out in more detail.
How does the woman feel?
Rarely at 6-7 weeks there are no manifestations of hormonal changes in the body. Most often, sensations intensify during this period. There is an increase in the concentration of hormones that contribute to the normal course of pregnancy.
The first sign of change is the absence of menstruation. You should wait for toxicosis to appear. If it is not there, it is not considered a deviation. A woman may become sensitive to different odors.
Mood swings are also a concern. This is quite natural. Sometimes there is a slight tug in the lower abdomen. Its size has not yet been increased. The first signs of fetal development other than toxicosis include selectivity or the emergence of special eating preferences.
It happens that this period is remembered by strong manifestations of toxicosis. It becomes difficult to eat and even drink. However, if there is severe vomiting, water loss should be replaced. If it is difficult to drink liquid, you can replace it with juicy fruits.
Quite often this period brings heaviness in the stomach and constipation. Urination becomes more frequent. This is normal, but you should adjust your diet. The first signs of pregnancy also include weakness and dizziness. By the end of the first trimester, all discomfort will pass.
Physiological changes
At 5–6 weeks, the belly does not yet look big. But the uterus is already enlarging. Now it is the size of an orange. Under the influence of hormones, breasts swell and nipples may darken.
Weight at this stage increases by 0.6–1.4 kg. Inexorably growing hCG level stimulates the growth of the corpus luteum. It is visible on ultrasound. It releases more and more progesterone. This is a pregnancy hormone.
Immunity is reduced, which is necessary at this stage of embryo development. This process begins from the moment of conception. This protects the fetus from the influences of the mother's immune system. Without this mechanism, miscarriage would be almost inevitable. The lower abdomen sometimes feels tight and there is tingling. The uterus grows, blood flows to it more strongly. This is normal.
Discharge
Normally, the discharge at this stage is white and transparent. They do not cause discomfort, burning or itching. The light-transparent discharge has no odor. If light pink, bloody ointments appear from the genital tract, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Brown discharge at 6 weeks of pregnancy may portend a miscarriage. Especially if your lower abdomen hurts. Blood or light-bloody discharge at any time is considered a deviation from the norm and requires immediately calling an ambulance.
Also, if the ointments from the genital tract have changed their character, become greenish, foamy, you should urgently consult a gynecologist.
What happens to the embryo?
An ultrasound at 5–6 weeks can tell a lot about the development of the embryo. The fruit during this period is only 4–6 mm in size. Its weight is 1–2 g. The embryo now looks more like a fish embryo. The fetus floats in a small amount of amniotic fluid.
However, his mother cannot yet feel the movements of her baby. If her lower abdomen feels tight, it is not due to fetal movements. Its size is still too small for this.
Ultrasound can also now track the heartbeat of the embryo. Normally it reaches 100–150 beats per minute. This is a serious breakthrough in the development of the baby. The ultrasound also shows the following changes from the moment of conception:
- Blood circulation is adjusted.
- Continue to form internal organs(spleen, kidneys, lungs). There is no esophagus or intestines yet.
- The first facial features are taking shape.
- Handles and legs are formed.
- The thymus gland appears.
- The rudiments of bone marrow, pituitary gland, and muscles appear.
- The fetus receives development of the nervous system.
- The gonads are formed.
This is a complex process. The life and health of the baby largely depends on the mother’s behavior during this period. Therefore, even in the presence of toxicosis, it is necessary to eat properly. Sex is possible at this time if there are no contraindications. In the case when the gynecologist suspected possible miscarriage, you must follow all his recommendations. Sex, physical activity, and stress must be excluded.
What to fear?
Having studied what is happening to the embryo using ultrasound, undergoing examinations and tests, sometimes conditions that are dangerous for pregnancy are identified. This period is marked by the following threats:
- The presence of severe toxicosis.
- Spontaneous miscarriage.
- Threat of miscarriage or fading of pregnancy.
- Ectopic implantation.
This period of pregnancy is dangerous for various pathologies. If symptoms of its interruption appear (stabbing, cutting in the lower abdomen, reddish, foul-smelling discharge appears), you should consult a doctor. Sex, increased physical and emotional stress are contraindicated in this case.
Even if there is no toxicosis, you should optimize your diet. Otherwise, the fetus will not receive enough substances necessary for development. During this period, it is dangerous to catch a cold or contract some infectious diseases. An increase in body temperature above +38 degrees is dangerous for the baby. Even a miscarriage is possible. You can’t even go to the baths or take too hot a shower. If there are contraindications, various threats, sex at this stage is unacceptable.
In order for the fetus to develop harmoniously, you must adhere to the recommendations of your supervising doctor. He will select a vitamin complex taking into account the characteristics of the woman’s body.
If nausea and vomiting are severe, you need to eat in small portions (this is also best done if there is no toxicosis). Food should be cold, and it is better to have breakfast without getting out of bed. Vomiting more than 2-3 times a day requires treatment.
If there is a lot of pain or stabbing in the lower abdomen, you should call an ambulance. You need to sleep more (and during the day too), at least 9–10 hours. In order not to expose the fetus to threats and adverse effects, physical activity should be reduced. Sex is acceptable if there are no contraindications.
When you want to eat or drink something unhealthy (beer, earth, whitewash), you should not give in to this feeling. Such manifestations indicate a deficiency of some substances in the body. It is necessary to eat properly and nutritiously.
By registering on time and undergoing the necessary examinations, a woman can prevent negative factors affecting the development of the baby. Following the recommendations of the gynecologist, future mom will make the development process of your baby harmonious. This is important at all stages of pregnancy, and even more so in the first weeks.
On at this stage mucus appears in the cervix, which is called a “plug” and will leave the body only during childbirth. A woman is not recommended to undergo an examination in a gynecological chair this week. The embryo begins to form bones, which leads to a decrease in calcium levels in the pregnant woman's body. If a woman does not consume enough of this element with food, then it comes to the baby from the venous vessels. This can cause cramps in the pregnant woman's legs, and further depletion of the veins leads to venous dilatation. In addition, hemorrhoids may worsen. In the seventh week, the amount of progesterone in the blood continues to increase, which relaxes the intestinal walls, which in turn causes constipation and bloating. Veins become more visible on the chest, abdomen and legs. But there is no need to worry about this; after childbirth, as a rule, everything returns to normal.