More changes are occurring with your pregnancy and your tiny baby growing inside. Have you taken a pregnancy test yet? Find out how to cope with morning sickness.
By Week Six, things are well underway in terms of the baby's development. Let's take a look at what happens during this period of pregnancy.
What is happening to your Baby?
Many of the baby's organ systems are continuing to grow and develop including the baby's stomach, liver, pancreas and gallbladder. One new event this week is that the antigen factor that determines blood type is present at the end of the sixth week.
The adrenal cortex forms during the six week, although it does not begin to start producing hormones (such as adrenaline) for several more weeks yet.
The babies skeletal system begins to develop during this week. Bones in the baby's shoulders, arms, hips and legs make their appearance for the first time, but do not have any joints yet.
What is happening with You?
Two signs of pregnancy could be seen by your provider at a prenatal visit this week. One is called Hegar's sign. This is a softening of the lower part of your tummy where your uterus is. Another is Chadwick's sign, which causes your cervix to have a bluish tinge. Both are caused by increased blood flow and circulation in your uterus.
It is common to have morning sickness begin during the sixth week. Fortunately most women get some relief from nausea and vomiting after their first trimester is over.
You would likely test positive on a home pregnancy test this week.
To Do
Continue taking prenatal vitamins.
Take a home pregnancy test.
See your care provider as soon as possible to confirm your pregnancy.
Eat a healthy pregnancy diet.
Avoid harmful substances during baby's sensitive period.
Consider purchasing or borrowing some books on pregnancy.
What is happening in Week Seven of Pregnancy?
(Many thanks to www.paternityangel.com for the use of this image.)
