Being 5 weeks pregnant is a big milestone in early pregnancy. The embryo is tiny still, but the process of rapid development is underway. Pregnancy hormones are also going up so this is when some people start to see more obvious symptoms.
What Happens at 5 Weeks Pregnant?
The embryo is growing very fast by the fifth week. The neural tube, which will eventually become the brain and spinal cord, is beginning to form. The foundations of the heart and circulatory system are also forming.
The placenta and umbilical cord are starting to form and will eventually provide nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby.
Symptoms at 5 Weeks Pregnant
Pregnancy symptoms vary from woman to woman. For some people there are many symptoms and for others there are very few.
Common symptoms when 5 weeks pregnant can include:
- Late Period
- Nausea and/or throwing up
- Tenderness in breasts
- Increased fatigue
- Increased urination
- Bloating
- Mild abdominal cramping
- Heightened sense of smell
- Cravings or aversions to food
- Changes in mood
The symptoms are mostly related to hormonal changes, especially the rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone.
Nausea and vomiting may start at this time, but may start earlier or later. It is called morning sickness, but nausea can happen at any time of the day.
Some people with mild symptoms may benefit from eating small, frequent meals and drinking plenty of fluids. If you can’t keep fluids down or if your vomiting is severe, you may need treatment for dehydration and should contact a healthcare professional.
How Big Is the Baby at 5 Weeks?
At 5 weeks, the embryo is still tiny, about the size of a small seed. It’s not yet a baby but it’s not a blob either, because there are some big changes happening in development.
The embryo’s cells are beginning to specialise and grow into the body structures that will become the different organs and body systems.
Can You See the Baby on an Ultrasound?
5 weeks is very early in pregnancy so you might not see much on the ultrasound. Results can differ. Depending on when ovulation and implantation occur, a healthcare provider may be able to see a gestational sac.
At this stage you might not see a heartbeat. In cases where an early ultrasound does not show expected structures, a repeat scan may be recommended instead of assuming something is wrong.
What To Expect When 5 Weeks Pregnant?
If you have confirmed that you are pregnant, schedule prenatal care. Eat a healthy diet and take folic acid as directed by your healthcare professional.
Don’t drink alcohol or smoke, and talk to a healthcare professional before taking any prescription, over-the-counter or herbal medicines. Rest when needed, drink plenty of fluids and be alert to any abnormal symptoms.
Recommended Reading
Pregnancy Symptoms Week by Week
Worshipping God in the Midst of Loss
How To Honour And Love Your Wife
STAGES OF A CRASHING MARRIAGE
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention right away if you have heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, severe dizziness, or other symptoms that concern you. Occasionally these may be signs of a pregnancy complication that needs urgent assessment.
Closing Remarks
If you’re 5 weeks pregnant your pregnancy is entering an important phase of early development. Hormonal changes can cause nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness and other symptoms. The embryo is beginning to lay the foundations of the brain, spinal cord, heart and other systems of the body.
NOTE: Every pregnancy is different, and routine prenatal visits are the best way to monitor your health and baby’s growth.