7 Weeks Pregnant
You are now 7 weeks pregnant! Your baby grows a lot during this week and it is now about a half inch long. That’s about the size of a grain of rice or a blueberry. Overall, it was almost doubled in size since just last week; it’s a hard working little baby! In addition to changes in size, there is a further development of facial features like the eyes and mouth. There is also more development of the hands and feet. In no time there will be fingers and toes visible as the baby’s hands and feet continue to develop even more throughout this week. In addition to changes that occur outside, your baby is also working on internal features such as veins and organs.
When you are 7 weeks pregnant the baby’s organs such as the appendix, pancreas and liver are getting more prepared for their important roles. At this stage the liver is not formed but this space is occupied by red blood cells which carry oxygen and nutrients. Bone marrow subsequently takes over the task of making blood cells until enough of them have been developed in the bones of your growing baby. As your baby continues to grow, you are probably still experiencing morning sickness this week. Nausea is often a normal part of pregnancy, so it is important that you keep hydrated and continue eating well.
You may have noticed that you have a new inability to control emotions of late. These dramatic ups and downs are the result of your body’s increased production of hormones. This should come to an end right after the first trimester.
Until the body of your baby is ready for life outside, there will continue to develop links between you and your child. Some of the links that form this week will be between the gut and your baby’s umbilical cord which continues to grow blood vessels.
You probably still do not show much this week, but you’ve probably noticed a little snugness in your clothes. As your baby continues to grow faster all the time, changes in your body will become more pronounced. Currently your breasts are most likely still swollen and painful. Pregnancy is a little different for every woman, so your symptoms can be different. While some women experience morning sickness, others may experience food aversions or lack of desire to eat at all.
If you’re one of those women, as difficult as it is, be sure to follow the regular meals that meet your baby’s nutritional needs during this critical stage. Because of the rapid growth of your baby and the hormonal changes that occur, you’re probably very tired. You may also have noticed other changes such as how frequently you must use the bathroom or even headaches. Make sure you are rested and keep in touch with your health care provider so he can answer any questions and concerns you may have.