Fourth week of pregnancy: signs and sensations. Fourth week of pregnancy: signs and sensations Pregnancy 5 weeks 5 days embryo

Signs of pregnancy at 4 weeks are manifested primarily by the absence of menstrual flow. In addition, the woman has the following symptoms:

emotional lability – sudden changes in mood,
there is engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands,
high fatigue with usual loads,
dyspeptic disorders in the form of nausea, vomiting and increased salivation,
drowsiness and weakness,
change in taste,
slight nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back,
possible frequent urination,
basal temperature is above 37°C.

Also, when carrying out additional examination methods, pregnancy can be detected based on the high content of human chorionic gonadotropin in the blood, urine (using test strips) and during an ultrasound examination, where the presence of an embryo in the uterine cavity is visible.

What happens at 4 weeks of pregnancy?

Many pregnant women in this period want to know what happens in the 4th week of pregnancy. This period is characterized by the transformation of the fertilized egg into the embryo itself. The embryo at this time looks like a flat disk with three layers.

From the outer layer of cellular elements, extraembryonic organs are formed - the yolk sac, chorion and amniotic membrane (amnion). These organs perform protective, nutritional and respiratory functions.
- The chorion is the outer shell of the embryo, from which the placenta will form. Her education will continue for up to twelve weeks. Through the placenta, the embryo will receive oxygen and the substances necessary for its life. Also, at the point of contact of the embryo with the endometrium of the uterus, a vascular network begins to form.
- The amniotic membrane (amnion) is formed in the form of a cavity where the embryo will be located. Subsequently, the amniotic membrane turns into a fetal bladder. The amnion produces amniotic fluid, which protects the embryo from shock, drying out and provides optimal conditions for life.
- The yolk sac is responsible for hematopoietic function until seven to eight weeks of pregnancy.
- The cells of the outer layer (ectoderm) are transformed into the skin, hair, nervous system, eye lenses and tooth enamel.
The cells of the middle layer (mesoderm) are transformed into the bone skeleton, connective and muscle tissue, the circulatory and excretory systems and organs of the reproductive system.

The digestive tract, liver, pancreas and thyroid glands, and organs of the respiratory system will be formed from the cells of the inner layer (endoderm).

At the 4th week of pregnancy, the head of the embryo begins to form; during this period it looks like a droplet. By the end of 4 weeks, the initial stage of intrauterine development of the embryo, called blastogenesis, ends.

Fetus at 4 weeks of gestation

The fetus at 4 weeks of pregnancy continues to grow and develop rapidly. At this stage, it is also called an embryo, into which it turns from a fertilized egg. The embryo at this stage looks like a flat disk with 3 layers, from which organs and systems will subsequently be formed. At the end of the fourth week, a neural plate is formed, from which the spinal cord and brain will develop in the future, the rudiments of glands are present, and the face with the rudiments of the eyes is formed. The tiny embryo at this stage measures between four and five millimeters.

If you are 4 weeks pregnant, the embryonic period begins. From now until 10 weeks, all of your baby's organs will begin to develop and some will even begin to function. As a result, this period is the most vulnerable to developmental damage. At the moment, the child consists of two layers: the primary ectoderm and the hypoblast, from which all organs and parts of the body are formed.

The primitive placenta also consists of two layers during this period. Its cells are connected to the tissues of the uterus, thus the developed placenta provides the fetus with nutrients and oxygen.

An amniotic sac is also formed with amniotic fluid in it, which will protect the fetus and the yolk sac, which produces red blood cells for the baby.

Important: the development of each child is purely individual. Our information is designed to give you an overview of fetal development.

Changes in the expectant mother at 4 weeks of pregnancy

With the help of a pregnancy test, you can finally be sure that you are expecting a baby.

If the test is positive, schedule your first prenatal appointment with your gynecologist. In most cases, the doctor will prescribe it no earlier than the eighth week, or earlier in the case of chronic diseases, symptoms that need to be checked, or if you had problems with your previous pregnancy.

If you are taking any medications, you should now consult your doctor to see if they are safe for your child.

Before pregnancy, you should take a multivitamin containing at least 400 micrograms of folic acid, increasing the dose to 600 micrograms per day once you become pregnant.

The next six weeks are important for the baby's development. The still simplified placenta and umbilical cord, which transfer nutrition and oxygen to the baby, are already functioning.

If you have been trying to get pregnant for a year or longer without success, see your doctor for an examination to identify possible problems.

Pregnancy test, “I took a home pregnancy test and got a negative result, but I already knew for sure that I was pregnant, I felt it. I waited a few days and took another test in the morning. This time, I was right, it turned out to be positive." - Anonymous

Feelings at 4 weeks of pregnancy

There may be no sensations at 4 weeks of pregnancy. But in most cases, the woman’s emotional state suffers due to hormonal changes. There are mood swings, increased tearfulness and touchiness, and causeless irritability. In addition to disturbances in the emotional sphere, a woman feels engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands, there may be nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back, increased odorless mucous discharge, changes in the perception of different types of odors and changes in taste preferences, fluid retention is often noted and swelling. Often at the 4th week of pregnancy, nausea, increased salivation and vomiting occur.

HCG at 4 weeks of pregnancy

HCG continues to be produced in the 4th week of pregnancy even after implantation of the fertilized egg. Human chorionic gonadotropin is secreted by the membrane of the embryo - the chorion and has an effect on the woman’s genital organs, thus directing them to support the pregnancy that is developing. The function of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is high:

provides support in the development and functioning of the corpus luteum of pregnancy up to seven weeks,
takes part in the secretion of steroids in the fetus, thus participating in the formation of sex in the fetus,
has an immunosuppressive effect, thereby preventing the rejection of the embryo, which is foreign to the woman’s immune system.

Human chorionic gonadotropin increases every two to three days in the first weeks, and as pregnancy progresses, its level begins to fall. The highest level of human chorionic gonadotropin is observed in the eighth to tenth week, after which it begins to decline.

HCG at 4 weeks of pregnancy can be determined using a laboratory test method, in which blood is taken for analysis, and a woman can also determine its presence in the urine using test strips.

Progesterone at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Progesterone continues to increase at 4 weeks of pregnancy. It is produced by the corpus luteum of pregnancy before the formation of the placenta, which will subsequently take over the production of progesterone. Progesterone plays a significant role not only in the 4th week of pregnancy, but throughout its entire period. The function of progesterone is as follows:

ensures the growth of the uterus and prepares it for the enlargement of the embryo,
prevents contraction of the uterine muscles and thus prevents the threat of miscarriage,
increases the accumulation of substances in the form of subcutaneous fat, necessary to nourish the embryo and the woman’s body,
reduces the functioning of the immune system so that the woman’s body does not reject the embryo, which is foreign to it,
ensures the growth and development of the mammary glands,
helps prepare the pelvic ligaments for labor,
takes part in the development of certain tissues in the embryo.

Uterus at 4 weeks of pregnancy

At the 4th week of pregnancy, the uterus swells and softens, especially in the area of the isthmus, and therefore its slight mobility is noted. The mucous membrane of the uterus and cervix is bluish in color, due to increased blood flow. A mucous plug is formed in the area of the cervix, which will perform a protective function, in particular, prevent bacterial infection from penetrating from the outside into the uterine cavity. The size of the uterus does not increase significantly at 4 weeks and does not extend beyond the boundaries of the pelvis.

Endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy continues to undergo some modifications after implantation of the fertilized egg. The number of blood vessels in it increases (due to which it acquires a bluish color) and glandular cells, which will subsequently turn into the placenta, and at this time provide the embryo with oxygen and substances necessary for its nutrition. As the embryo grows and pregnancy progresses, the endometrium gradually thickens. When performing an ultrasound, the thickness of the endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy averages 20 mm.

Breasts at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Breasts at 4 weeks of pregnancy continue to undergo changes. As a result of hormonal changes, her gradual transition to breastfeeding begins. There is symmetrical growth, engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands. There may be slight soreness, as well as darkening of the nipples and areolas.

Belly at 4 weeks pregnant

At the 4th week of pregnancy, the abdomen does not undergo any changes, namely, it does not increase in size, since the embryo is still very tiny and the uterus is located in the pelvic area. Minor nagging pain may occur in the lower abdomen, but it usually goes away after a few days.

Ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy

An ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy is performed transvaginally and confirms an intrauterine pregnancy. It is defined as a small black circle with a diameter of several millimeters, and is called the fetal sac. Also on an ultrasound during this period you can see dilated blood vessels in the uterus, which is normal and is associated with the need for more active nutrition of the developing embryo.

It is not yet possible to see the tissue of the embryo at week 4, but by the end of this week it will be possible to see the yolk sac on ultrasound, representing a ring of two to three millimeters. And after just seven days on this ring, it will be possible to see a tiny embryo that receives the necessary substances from the yolk sac.

The corpus luteum of pregnancy continues its work intensively:

increasing in size, it provides nutrients to the embryo until the placenta is formed,
and also continues the production of the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the maintenance and progression of pregnancy.

Ultrasound at the 4th week of pregnancy is rarely performed; when performed at an early stage, it is also possible to confirm or exclude an ectopic pregnancy or hydatidiform mole in order to react in time and prevent undesirable consequences.

Well-being at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Well-being at the 4th week of pregnancy is characterized by instability of the emotional background - increased irritability, tearfulness; the appearance of digestive tract disorders – nausea, vomiting; minor nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lumbar region. In general, health does not suffer at 4 weeks of pregnancy; many women feel great.

Abdominal pain at 4 weeks pregnant

If your stomach hurts at 4 weeks of pregnancy, there may be several reasons for this symptom. During the 4th week of pregnancy, the abdomen may ache normally, the pain is nagging, is not accompanied by any bloody discharge, its intensity does not increase and passes quickly. Abdominal pain at 4 weeks may also indicate the presence of a pathological process:

diseases of the urinary organs (pyelonephritis, cystitis), but in such cases the pain is often accompanied by urinary disorder and a rise in temperature,
intestinal dysfunction in the form of constipation, flatulence,
the existing pregnancy may be ectopic, therefore, as the embryo grows and the fallopian tube stretches, pain occurs,
pain may indicate a threatened miscarriage or a missed pregnancy, especially if it intensifies and is accompanied by bleeding,
Inflammatory processes in the abdominal organs are possible (for example, appendicitis).

Given that there are a large number of reasons that can cause abdominal pain, especially in the 4th week of pregnancy, it is better to consult a doctor to prevent undesirable consequences for the woman and the course of pregnancy.

Why does the stomach feel tight at 4 weeks of pregnancy?

Often the stomach feels tight at 4 weeks of pregnancy due to changes that occur in the female body. Namely, there is a displacement of the pelvic organs, stretching of muscle fibers and ligaments, which contributes to the occurrence of nagging pain in the abdomen.

The stomach can also be pulled:

after doing any physical exercise,
if there is a threat of miscarriage,
with ectopic pregnancy,
as a result of pathological processes in internal organs.

In pathological conditions that are accompanied by nagging pain in the abdomen, other symptoms are often observed (for example, spotting, fever, urinary disturbance, increased pain, etc.), which requires immediate consultation with a doctor.

Discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Discharge at the 4th week of pregnancy may be thicker than usual, transparent or whitish, odorless and does not cause discomfort in the woman. Light brown discharge is possible, especially at the beginning of the 4th week, when implantation finally occurs; usually such discharge is not disturbing, has no odor and disappears after a few days.

Brown discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Brown discharge at 4 weeks may be normal, especially if it is light in color, not accompanied by an odor, and does not cause discomfort to the woman. Such discharge is associated with hormonal changes in the female body, as well as with the completion of implantation of the embryo in the endometrium of the uterus and disappears after a few days. Dark brown discharge should alert you, especially if it is accompanied by pain in the abdomen and/or lower back, increases in volume, and acquires an unpleasant odor. Such discharge may indicate a frozen or ectopic pregnancy, cervical erosion, threatened miscarriage, or the presence of a bacterial sexually transmitted infection, which requires immediate contact with a specialist.

Bloody discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Bloody discharge during the 4th week of pregnancy requires especially close attention. Bloody discharge may be the result of:

ectopic pregnancy,
sexual intercourse
gynecological examination (slight discharge, usually not dangerous),
frozen pregnancy (scanty and spotting discharge),
cervical erosion.

The appearance of spotting in the 4th week of pregnancy is a reason to visit a gynecologist to determine the cause of such discharge and, if necessary, undergo appropriate therapy.

Lower back pain at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The lower back hurts at the 4th week of pregnancy due to various reasons, such as physiological restructuring of the osseous-ligamentous apparatus or due to the presence of some pathological process in the body. Causal factors for lower back pain at 4 weeks may be:

Normally, due to changes in the osseous-ligamentous apparatus, when the hormone relaxin is produced, which makes the connective tissues loose, resulting in an increase in their extensibility, as well as the mobility of the pelvic bones. Thus, the body prepares for the upcoming birth.
Excess weight that a woman gradually gains during pregnancy.
Spinal pathology existing before pregnancy (scoliosis, osteochondrosis).
Inflammatory processes in the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Typically, kidney disease causes urinary problems and fever.

The threat of miscarriage may be accompanied by lower back pain and bleeding.

Thus, in the case of lumbar pain, the intensity of which does not go away, but increases and other symptoms are additionally noted, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor in order to promptly identify the cause and prevent unwanted complications.

Temperature at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Often the temperature at the 4th week of pregnancy rises to low-grade levels, namely up to 37.3°C. This temperature can occur both in the early stages and throughout pregnancy. In the absence of any other symptoms (for example, headache, rhinitis, etc.), this temperature is considered normal due to:

changes in metabolism towards its acceleration,
changes in hormonal levels - increased production of the hormone progesterone, which affects the thermoregulation center in the brain,
reducing immunity so that the woman’s body does not reject an embryo that is foreign to it.

An increase in temperature in the 4th week of pregnancy to 38° and above may be associated with any disease:

ARVI or flu,
inflammatory diseases of internal organs (for example, pneumonia, pyelonephritis).

Self-medication at high temperatures is strictly contraindicated, because this can seriously harm both the woman’s health and the health of the embryo, because This week, the organs and systems established in the third week are intensively developing. Developmental defects of certain organs, mental retardation, etc. may subsequently occur. In addition to such complications, high temperature can provoke termination of pregnancy. Therefore, you should be very careful about your condition, especially in conditions of high temperature, and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Ectopic pregnancy at 4 weeks

An ectopic pregnancy at 4 weeks is characterized by the same symptoms as a uterine pregnancy. Also noted:

delayed menstruation,
emotional background disorder,
changes in the sensitivity of the mammary glands and their enlargement,
Nausea, increased salivation may occur,
changes in taste and intolerance to certain odors,
increased basal temperature, etc.

The cause of ectopic pregnancy is the inability of a fertilized egg to enter the uterine cavity due to obstruction of the fallopian tubes, as a result of which the egg is implanted in the fallopian tube. The cause of disruption of the fallopian tubes may be:

processes of inflammation in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, both due to nonspecific infections (for example, after an abortion), and specific ones that are transmitted through the genital tract (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, etc.),
operations on the abdominal organs and pelvic organs, leading to adhesions,
congenital underdevelopment of the fallopian tubes,
hormonal disorders in women.

The risk of ectopic pregnancy occurs:

with increasing age (over 35 years),
in women with endometriosis and chronic diseases of the genital organs,
in smokers,
if you have an intrauterine device,
with congenital anomalies of the uterus and its tubes,
tumors of internal organs.

It is almost impossible to determine an ectopic pregnancy on your own. An ectopic pregnancy is extremely dangerous for a woman’s life. Approximately in the fourth to sixth weeks of pregnancy, the villi of the embryo grow into the fallopian tube, the embryo develops intensively and the fallopian tube may rupture, which is accompanied by:

bleeding into the abdominal cavity (if a large vessel is damaged, this is extremely dangerous due to large blood loss),
sharp cramping pain in the lower abdomen,
dizziness,
pale skin,
loss of consciousness, etc.

In some situations, it is not the fallopian tube that ruptures, but the fertilized egg. In this case, the expulsion of the fertilized egg occurs not into the uterus, but into the abdominal cavity - tubal abortion. With such an abortion, dizziness, acute abdominal pain, and weakness are also noted, but the symptoms develop more slowly than in the case of a pipe rupture. An imaginary well-being may occur when all the symptoms disappear, and the woman thinks that everything has returned to normal, but the bleeding continues into the abdominal cavity and this is very dangerous. If there is a slight suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy, and also if a woman is at risk for an ectopic pregnancy, it is a reason to consult a doctor and be examined.

Miscarriage at 4 weeks of pregnancy

A miscarriage at 4 weeks of pregnancy most often begins with minor bleeding that gradually intensifies. The color of bloody discharge can range from scarlet to dark red. Often such discharge is accompanied by spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, as well as pain in the lower back, and sometimes the body temperature may rise. Bloody discharge may contain tissue particles.

A miscarriage occurs over a period of time, from several hours to several days. In this case, bleeding may be minor, but last more than several days.

The occurrence of a miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy is often associated with genetic damage to the embryo that is incompatible with life. Also, early miscarriage can occur due to any diseases in the woman, inadequate physical activity, use of medications, alcohol, etc.

If bloody discharge appears, accompanied by pain, weakness and fever, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Bleeding at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Bleeding at 4 weeks of pregnancy should be a serious concern and is a reason to consult a doctor. Brief bleeding, in the form of a few drops, not accompanied by pain in the abdomen and lower back, or an increase in temperature should not be of particular concern; this may occur:

after sexual intercourse,
after a gynecological examination.

Heavy bleeding that does not stop, but rather increases, contains tissue particles and is accompanied by a deterioration in the woman’s general condition – weakness, pale skin, pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back – is a dangerous condition and requires immediate medical attention. Bleeding of this nature can occur with spontaneous miscarriage and complicated ectopic pregnancy.

Menstruation at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Menstruation in the 4th week of pregnancy, as a rule, is not observed. But in the early stages of pregnancy - the first weeks and even months, when the placenta is just developing, there may be a slight release of hormones that suppress menstrual function and at the appropriate time, minor bleeding may occur. In addition, discharge similar to menstruation at 4 weeks of pregnancy may be due to:

ectopic pregnancy,
frozen pregnancy,
spontaneous miscarriage,
cervical erosion,
after a gynecological examination or sexual intercourse.

The occurrence of discharge reminiscent of menstruation is a reason for a visit to the gynecologist for examination and further tactics in order to prevent undesirable consequences for the health of the woman and the embryo.

Toxicosis at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Toxicosis at 4 weeks of pregnancy is not a rare phenomenon, but not obligatory. The occurrence of early toxicosis is associated with a number of reasons:

with changes in a woman’s hormonal levels,
with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract,
with the entry into the blood of a pregnant woman of metabolic products of the fetus, which cause intoxication in her body,
and there is also a hereditary predisposition (when the mother of a pregnant woman suffered from toxicosis, then, most likely, her daughter will also experience toxicosis).

Often, early toxicosis is observed until the placenta is formed (usually up to twelve weeks), which will protect the woman’s body from the metabolic products of the embryo.

Most often, early toxicosis is observed during the first pregnancy; in the case of subsequent pregnancies, the symptoms of toxicosis decrease or are absent.

Toxicosis at the 4th week of pregnancy most often manifests itself as nausea, sometimes vomiting, as well as increased salivation, intolerance to certain foods and/or odors.

Mild toxicosis is accompanied by morning sickness that goes away after breakfast or nausea that can last half a day and is sometimes accompanied by vomiting. Severe toxicosis is characterized by nausea throughout the day and night, and is accompanied by repeated vomiting, which requires medical attention to avoid dehydration and further complications of pregnancy.

To alleviate the manifestations of toxicosis - breakfast with solid food, without getting out of bed; split meals throughout the day with high-calorie foods (not fatty); eating chilled food and drinking enough fluids.

Frozen pregnancy at 4 weeks

Frozen pregnancy at 4 weeks occurs for various reasons, namely:

as a result of genetic disorders in the embryo that are incompatible with life,
in case of hormonal disorders occurring in a woman’s body as a result of some disease or use of medications,
the presence of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, etc.),
acute viral infections (flu, etc.),
alcohol abuse, smoking,
prolonged exposure to the sun,
Rhesus conflict,
frequent abortions,
regular physical and nervous stress.

It is difficult to suspect a frozen pregnancy on your own, since signs of pregnancy can often still be observed. But you should be wary:

the appearance of bloody discharge,
disappearance of signs of toxicosis,
severe pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back,
causeless increase in body temperature.

If such symptoms occur, consultation and examination with a specialist is necessary, who will, first of all, conduct an ultrasound and determine the diagnosis.

Cold at 4 weeks pregnant

A cold during the 4th week of pregnancy can occur in many women, especially in conditions of reduced immunity in the early stages. A cold with no fever or chills is not scary. But when a high temperature appears, above 38°C, chills, pale skin, i.e. symptoms of intoxication, a cold becomes dangerous both for the pregnant woman (complications, for example, pneumonia) and for the embryo (impaired development, death, miscarriage). In order not to expose a pregnant woman’s body to colds, it is necessary to carry out a set of simple preventive measures:

during the epidemic period of acute viral infections, try not to visit places with large crowds of people,
if there is a patient with a cold in the environment of a pregnant woman, especially in the acute period, it is advisable to isolate him for several days,
apply saline solutions into the nasal passages in the form of drops or sprays (Humor, Aqua-Maris, Quix),
where the pregnant woman is located, frequent ventilation of the room is necessary,
a wakefulness and sleep schedule must be followed,
frequent walks in the fresh air,
rational and balanced diet high in vegetables and fruits, microelements,
if necessary, use vitamins for pregnant women (Vitrum prenatal, Pregnavit).

If a pregnant woman does develop a cold, especially with an increase in temperature, it is recommended to consult a doctor for appropriate recommendations. You should not self-medicate, as this can negatively affect the development of the embryo, because not all medications can be taken during pregnancy.

Nausea at 4 weeks pregnant

Nausea at 4 weeks of pregnancy can occur in more than half of women. Most often, it occurs in the morning on an empty stomach and disappears after eating, so it is recommended to eat a piece of bread or biscuit without getting out of bed, lie down for about fifteen minutes, and then get up. Sometimes nausea can bother you for half a day, and in severe cases (which is rare) throughout the day and be accompanied by vomiting. To reduce the severity of nausea and eliminate it, it is recommended:

eat small portions and often,
It is better to eat food chilled,
eat more solid foods
start breakfast in bed,
food should be high in calories, but not fatty,
drink enough still water,
rest and get enough sleep,
to walk outside.
These simple measures will help a pregnant woman reduce the severity of nausea and eliminate it.

Termination of pregnancy at 4 weeks

Termination of pregnancy at 4 weeks must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor; dealing with this issue independently is dangerous for the woman’s health. Since only a doctor can assess a woman’s condition, select a method of terminating a pregnancy and monitor the entire process of termination. In the early stages, as a rule, medical termination of pregnancy is performed.

Medical abortion is the safest method of medical termination of pregnancy in the early stages. When performing a medical abortion, the following drugs are used: Mifolian, Mifeprex, Pencrofton, Mefigin, Mifepristone. Such an abortion is carried out in several stages:

at the initial stage, an examination, ultrasound and the necessary laboratory blood tests are carried out, after which the drug is prescribed and the woman is monitored for one to two hours,
at the next stage, 36–48 hours after using the drug, prostaglandins are prescribed, after which a miscarriage occurs and this is manifested by bloody discharge.

After a miscarriage, another ultrasound is performed, which confirms the complete absence of the fertilized egg in the uterine cavity and is carried out ten to fourteen days later.

The advantages of medical abortion are:

minimal or no complications and proceeds like normal menstruation,
no need to be hospitalized, i.e. you can lead an active lifestyle,
absence of instrumental intervention in the uterine cavity, which reduces the risk of infection,
psychologically better tolerated.

Sex at 4 weeks pregnant

Sex at 4 weeks of pregnancy is not a contraindication, and perhaps, on the contrary, it will be very necessary for a woman, since at this stage libido increases. You should remember to maintain intimate hygiene for both partners both before and after sex. Contraindications to having sex at 4 weeks are bacterial genital infections in the partner, as well as the woman’s bleeding, abdominal pain and/or lower back pain.

Alcohol at 4 weeks pregnant

Alcohol in the 4th week of pregnancy is absolutely contraindicated, because... During this period, there is intensive development of all organs and systems. Alcohol has a toxic effect on the body of both the woman and the embryo. And the consequences of drinking alcohol, especially during the period of organ formation, can be disastrous (the birth of a sick child).

Nutrition at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Nutrition at 4 weeks of pregnancy should be complete and balanced. Food should be high-calorie, but not fatty and fried, steamed, boiled and should contain a sufficient amount of micro- and macroelements, fruits and vegetables, fermented milk products (kefir, cottage cheese, milk, yogurt), lean meats and fish.

Antibiotics at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Antibiotics are contraindicated in the 4th week of pregnancy, as they are dangerous for the embryo, especially at this stage, when all organs and systems are intensively developing. Unreasonable use of antibiotics at 4 weeks can cause malformations of one or another organ in the unborn child.

There are certain indications for the use of antibiotics, which are prescribed only by a doctor. Antibiotics can be used under the supervision of a doctor in the following cases: for pyelonephritis, pneumonia and other purulent inflammations of internal organs, sepsis, and bacterial genital infections. For colds and flu, antibiotics are not used, since they act on bacteria, and the flu is caused by viruses, you need to remember this.

There are antibiotics that are approved for use during pregnancy, but week 4 is not the best time to use them.

Flying at 4 weeks pregnant

Flying at 4 weeks of pregnancy may be contraindicated. Because a woman’s body adapts to new changes associated with hormonal changes. Also, toxicosis can interfere with the flight, especially if the toxicosis is severe.

Contraindications to flying early are:

repeated vomiting,
bleeding,
pain in the abdomen and lower back,
anemia,
pregnancy, after in vitro fertilization
exacerbation of chronic diseases in a pregnant woman,
defects and diseases of the genital organs in a pregnant woman.

4th week of pregnancy - it is better to stay close to home and in a normal environment. The best time for a holiday with flights is the second trimester of pregnancy (from the 14th to the 28th week).

So, congratulations, new life is developing in your tummy!

During this period, human chorionic gonadotropin begins to be actively produced, so you can safely go to the pharmacy and buy a pregnancy test. But if it turns out to be negative, this does not mean that pregnancy has not occurred, it’s just that its content in the urine is not particularly high yet, you can take the test in a few days, or donate blood.

At week 4, the first signs of pregnancy appear, such as morning sickness, increased drooling, drowsiness, fatigue, sensitivity to smells, irritability, frequent urination, and so on.

Your baby is the size of...

0.5 grams
0.36–1 mm

Fetal development

The 4th week of pregnancy is an important stage in fetal development, as the fertilized egg turns into a real embryo. Now it looks like a disk, which consists of three layers (germ layers). Each of them plays an important role in the development of the baby.

The outer layer (ectoderm) is the basis for the skin, hair, nervous system, eye lenses, and tooth enamel. The middle layer (mesoderm) will become the skeleton, connective tissue and muscles, as well as the excretory and circulatory systems, and will give rise to the development of the genital organs. The inner layer (endoderm) will give rise to the development of the digestive system, thyroid and pancreas, and liver.

This is what a fetus looks like at 4 weeks

The heart and blood vessels begin to form first, and at 4 weeks the first heartbeats can be detected. True, the heart still looks like a simple tube through which blood flows in an undivided stream. By the end of the week, it will already have different main departments. At week 4, the fetal head also forms, which looks like a small droplet, but it already has three brain bladders, even if they are primary.

The process of placentation is also actively underway, which will only be fully completed by the 12th week of pregnancy.

During the placentation period, the yolk sac, which is a derivative of the embryoblast, is formed from the endoblastic vesicle. It is an extraembryonic organ located near the umbilical region of a growing and developing embryo. The yolk sac plays an important role in the respiration and nutrition of the embryo. It will function as a hematopoietic organ until the 7th week of pregnancy. Primary germ cells are formed in the walls of the yolk sac, which, together with the blood, enter the rudiments of the gonads.

Ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Ultrasound examination reveals the corpus luteum of pregnancy, which is constantly increasing. At week 4, the yolk sac is also registered - this is a ring with a diameter of 2-3 mm. By the end of the fourth week of pregnancy, an ultrasound can detect the embryo itself, which has already settled in the uterine cavity, but for now it looks like a small black dot.

At this stage of pregnancy, ultrasound is not performed often, because the expectant mother is just beginning to think about a possible pregnancy and decides only to take an express test to determine the latter. Ultrasound is performed transvaginally.

What happens in your body at 4 weeks?

During this period, your body has almost completely rebuilt itself, but the uterus has not yet increased in size. However, changes in the body of the expectant mother will occur throughout pregnancy. During a gynecological examination, changes in the structure and color of the cervix may be observed. A slight weight gain is possible. But at the same time, pregnancy still doesn’t have any effect on your figure.

The corpus luteum in appearance resembles a small bubble on the wall of the ovary. It performs an important function, namely, it produces progesterone, which is necessary to maintain pregnancy at the initial stage. At about 12 weeks, the placenta will take over this function.

The pituitary gland increases in size, the production of follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones decreases, which contributes to a temporary cessation of egg maturation and ovulation is interrupted. In turn, the production of prolactin increases; this hormone is responsible for preparing the mammary glands for feeding a newborn.

How you feel at 4 weeks

There is a feeling of hardening and swelling of the mammary glands. You may experience nagging pain in the lower abdomen, irritability, and fatigue, which in turn is very often regarded as a premenstrual symptom. But many women feel the onset of pregnancy from the first days, if this is not an obsession, which is very common in women who really want to get pregnant.

There is a slight increase in body temperature. Expectant mothers may confuse day and night, a phenomenon called sleep inversion.

Discharge from the genital tract

In most cases, the discharge is standard; it should be light or milky in color and of uniform consistency.

If you observe other discharge that differs from the norm, you should immediately visit a doctor, as they may indicate the presence of infections in the female genital tract. In this case, it is necessary to undergo an examination and fully follow the doctor’s recommendations.

The appearance of bloody or brownish discharge is also a reason to visit a doctor, since this period is one of the most critical periods of pregnancy.

Photos of bellies at 4 weeks

Despite the fact that the most optimal period for conducting a test to detect pregnancy is considered to be the 5th week, by the end of the fourth week it is also possible to establish the fact of pregnancy. By this time, the hCG level will vary between 101 - 4870 mU/ml, of course the gap is considerable, but the hormone level is increasing every day.

There are several types of pregnancy tests:

test strips. This is an inexpensive option. To determine pregnancy, you need to dip a test strip into the urine; when two strips appear, the test is considered positive. However, the test strip is not completely saturated, resulting in a false negative result.
tablet tests. They are equipped with two windows; urine enters the first window, and the result is displayed in the second. This test version is of higher quality.
Inkjet tests are the most effective. It contains blue particles that reliably attach to hCG, unless of course it is contained in the urine. After a minute, the test results are evaluated.

Important things for week 4

Remember that the laying of organs has just begun, so you need to avoid all negative factors as much as possible. Give up bad habits, because you carry a new life within you!

It is also worth abstaining from sex for a while. You should definitely visit a doctor who will give the necessary recommendations and advice, and also tell you about the vitamins and minerals that you should take. Dental treatment should be postponed until the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, which lasts from 14 to 26 weeks, since anesthesia is used quite often here. Take all medications only as recommended by your doctor, forget about self-medication!

Nutrition at 4 weeks

You should forget about your favorite fast foods, carbonated drinks, canned food, products with dyes and harmful additives. Your diet should be balanced. It is worth reducing the intake of strong tea and coffee, as well as fatty, smoked and fried foods. The expectant mother should eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, fish, and lean meat. However, you shouldn't overeat either. In nutrition you need to find a middle ground. If you have constipation, include prunes, beets, dried apricots in your diet, that is, those foods that are natural laxatives.

Mode

Try to sleep in the afternoon, walk in the fresh air more often, you can visit the pool.

The fifth week of obstetric pregnancy is equal to the third week of pregnancy from conception. A woman knows she is pregnant when the child is planned. After all, last week, with a trembling feeling inside, she was informed about this.

It is important to know!
In the early stages, ultrasound determines the size of the average internal diameter of the ovum and the CTE of the fetus. The obtained sizes are compared with the tabulated normative values indicated for the gestational age in embryonic weeks. Therefore, at the first unscheduled ultrasound, the gestational age is indicated exactly as embryonic (from conception), which is 2 weeks less than the period due to menstruation.

If the pregnancy was not planned, that is, the previous week passed unnoticed, it means that now there will be suspicions that they have begun to carry a child, as there will be a delay in menstruation. It's time to buy a pregnancy test!

Fetal development

The baby's size is 4-5 mm. The embryo begins to form organs. Development becomes more complicated day by day. At the beginning of the week, the baby will form a neural tube - the basis for the development of the central nervous system. It is located along the length of the entire body of the embryo and makes it possible for the brain and spinal cord to develop.

The cardiovascular system will begin to develop. At the front of the embryo, on the convex side, the heart forms and begins to beat. By the end of the 5th week, the heart has a left and right chamber that contract twice as much as in an adult.

By the end of the week, blood circulation is established, the eye sockets, umbilical cord and ear canals are formed. The rudiments of arms and legs will appear. The formation of important organs for the child will occur: liver, kidneys, digestive organs and excretory organs.

At the 5th week the baby will begin to move. But since the size of the embryo is no larger than a pea, its movement is imperceptible to the expectant mother.

What happens in the female body?

The embryo develops, and the woman’s body changes along with it. The uterus grows and prepares for the fact that the fetus will increase in size. Although, so far the process is slow and it does not change much in size.

The female body gets used to the fact that it does not eat alone. The embryo goes through the stage of anchoring in the uterus with the help of the umbilical cord. A mucus plug forms, blocking the passage to the uterus.

Feel

Each female body is individual in its own way, so not all symptoms may appear. However, it is necessary to know which of them are normal during embryo development and which are not.

The fifth week is accompanied by the following symptoms (normal):

The breasts become larger and hurt.
The stomach pulls due to changes in the body.
Toxicosis begins. You feel disgusted by smells or, conversely, experience sudden pleasure from some aroma.
Taste qualities change. Your favorite dishes may become disgusting, and you will begin to eat those that you have never eaten or liked before with great pleasure.
The hormonal background in the body changes, so the body temperature rises slightly.

But the main sign and new sensation will be sudden mood swings. Due to changes in hormonal levels in the body. You can be very irritable, and after a few minutes you are cheerful and happy with everything.

Dangerous symptoms

The fetus, or as it is called in medicine, the fertilized egg, has begun to develop. An embryo begins to form in it. Therefore, it's time to undergo an ultrasound. Usually the fertilized egg is round, but it can also be oval - this is a pathology. However, don't worry, there's nothing wrong with it. Consult a gynecologist, he will prescribe medications to help the embryo develop normally.

If you notice that the discharge has changed. For example, they look like cottage cheese - this is one of the signs of thrush. Consult a doctor, he will prescribe the correct treatment.

Register at the antenatal clinic

A woman should understand that when she registers, she does this not for the doctor, but for herself and the health of her unborn child. When should I register? The earlier the better. It is recommended to do this in the fifth week of pregnancy and no later than the twelfth. For those for whom it is important to know how their baby is growing, and for whom it is important that its development proceeds normally, it is time to go to the antenatal clinic. Who, if not a doctor, can determine whether pregnancy is progressing normally?! And in case of any deviations, prescribe a course of treatment in time to quickly normalize your and your baby’s health.

You can register with the antenatal clinic either at your place of residence or at your place of actual residence. And immediately decide on the place for childbirth: a maternity hospital or a private clinic.

When you register, you will receive documents. They will create an individual “pregnant and parturient card” and ask you to fill out a form. The purpose of all actions is to see possible risks, and if the pregnant woman does not talk about any diseases that may affect the development of the child, thereby freeing herself from responsibility. When going to the antenatal clinic to register, do not forget to take your passport.

What tests and examination will the gynecologist prescribe?

At the first appointment, the gynecologist will conduct an examination in order to properly advise and give useful recommendations.

The doctor will do the following:

He will conduct an examination on the chair and palpate the uterus.
They will take a swab for analysis.
Conduct a health survey.
Measure your pelvis and weight.
Measure blood pressure.
Examines the mammary glands.
If there are deviations from the norm, he will prescribe tests individually.

Blood sugar test;

By registering, you are automatically assigned to a local gynecologist, but if for some reason you don’t like him, you have the right to demand that you be assigned to a specific or another local gynecologist.

The gynecologist himself will tell you: when to come next time, when to get tested, what medications and vitamins to take and in what period. He will also explain how to eat properly and what physical activity is acceptable.

Before going to the doctor, make a list of questions you have. Especially issues related to intimate life. Don’t be shy, a gynecologist is a person who will know you for 9 months, about all the changes in your body and in the development of the baby.

Getting ready for the birth of a child now

Well, here's a long-awaited event for those who were planning a pregnancy - you are pregnant. And sudden news for those who didn’t know, and now what is called “knocked up.”

Slowly prepare for the birth of your baby. First of all, plan the furnishings in your child’s room and begin renovations. Of course, in the 5th week it is still impossible to know who will appear (a boy or a girl), so it is difficult to determine which wallpaper to choose and what color scheme to make the room in. But you can decide on the location of the furniture, what and where it will go in the children's room.

Please note that for convenience it is better to place the crib closer to the entrance, but not in a draft. In addition, consider the location of the rooms; it is better if the nursery is nearby, near your bedroom. But as practice shows, at first, expect that the crib will take its place in your room, because you will constantly run to the baby (both day and night).

It's time to think about a newborn album. Take photos of your belly every week of pregnancy and then paste them into an album. As the baby grows up, it will be interesting for him to see how he grew in his tummy. Also save photos of the ultrasound.

Start keeping a pregnancy diary, where you note new sensations as your baby develops. For example, the first time you felt that he moved, or describe the reaction when you found out that you were pregnant, etc.

As an option: take a photo of dad at the moment he found out about the baby.

Think and imagine how to capture memories. The album will also interest the baby. A grown-up child will be happy to look at himself even before birth.

Nutrition

What can you eat at 5 weeks pregnant? Basically, everything the soul desires. However, we would make the following recommendations:

Listen to your body. He knows exactly what he is missing.
If you have toxicosis, give up meat and eggs, replacing them with nuts, legumes and soy products.
Vegetables and fruits are a source of vitamins and minerals. Increase your consumption of carrots, mangoes, apricots.
Be sure to consume dairy products. Don't like milk? Eat yoghurts or cheeses!
Avoid alcohol altogether. The fifth week is the time when all the baby’s organs are formed. Don't harm him!

Bleeding

Bleeding in the fifth week of pregnancy is a rather alarming sign. Bleeding in the early stages indicates an ectopic pregnancy, pathology of pregnancy or an infectious disease. If there is heavy bleeding, the pregnant woman is hospitalized and placed in “conservation” in order to monitor the course of the pregnancy and protect the embryo.

Doctors usually prescribe hemostatic injections, antispasmodics (for example, Papaverine suppositories), vitamins for pregnant women (for example, Pregnacare), etc.

If you have a high fever and severe cough, be sure to get treatment, but do not self-medicate. Contact your doctor and tell them you are pregnant. In the first trimester, the embryo is vulnerable, so be sure to treat the disease. The main organs of the fetus are formed, and a cold will lead to a disruption in the formation of organs.

How are things going with your intimate life?

How does the level of hCG change in the blood of a healthy pregnant woman?

The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (abbreviated as hCG) is also called the pregnancy hormone because it is released into a woman’s blood only during pregnancy. The hormone is first produced in a woman’s body somewhere on the 11th day after conception. And then, with a successful pregnancy, its level increases every 2-3 days, and at the 5th obstetric week it is 1,500 - 5,000 mU/ml. The maximum level of hCG is observed at 8-13 weeks, and then the level gradually decreases.

I'm 5 weeks pregnant. Yesterday my lower back started hurting. Tell me why it hurts and is it dangerous for the child?

Lower back pain occurs for various reasons: adaptation of the female body to a new role - mother; old injuries, spinal problems; threat of spontaneous miscarriage. Therefore, it is important to consult a competent doctor to determine the cause of lower back pain.

Today I went to the doctor, he said that my hCG is growing slowly, what does this mean for the baby? I'm 4.5 weeks pregnant.

A slow increase in hCG levels or no increase at all is an alarming sign. Such a pregnancy can end either in a spontaneous miscarriage or in a frozen pregnancy. It is necessary to undergo an ultrasound, re-donate blood for hCG in 2 days, perhaps everything is not as sad as they say.

Photo of the fetus (ultrasound examination)

Video

The long-awaited 5th week of pregnancy has arrived and is smoothly moving into the sixth. If you have no doubt about your pregnancy, you often think about the baby and what it will be like. At this time, the child feels your mood, grows and develops.

In the fourth week, the baby begins its life. The mother's body is rebuilt for comfortable development of the fetus.

Fetal development

The 4th week of pregnancy is very important for the baby, because during this period all future organs are formed. The size of the fruit is no larger than a poppy seed (its length is about 0.5-1 mm).

In the 4th week, layers are created; cells of future organs will form in them. The baby looks like a flat disk, consisting of three layers (endoderm, mesoderm, ectoderm), each of which at some point will turn into organs.

In the future, the endoderm will form the pancreas, liver, and lungs. With the help of mesoderm, the skeleton will begin to develop, kidneys will form, the muscular system, heart and circulatory system will appear. With the help of ectoderm, skin, hair, eyes, and the nervous system are formed. Over time, all formed cells will gradually take their places.

The head of the embryo is formed, which looks like a teardrop, and extra-embryonic organs that provide nutrition, breathing and protection of the baby from a harmful environment. By the way, male genes play a major role in the formation of protective and life factors. So the future dad is already protecting his child at 4 weeks of pregnancy.

The placenta is formed, which performs an important function - the transfer of nutrients into the child’s body. The placenta is created from the cells of the female body, and then the cells of the child are connected to them. It satisfies the baby's requirements by taking nutrients from the mother's body and transferring them to the fetus in the required volume.

Is there a risk of miscarriage?

During an unplanned pregnancy, the fourth week passes unnoticed by the woman. And if there was a miscarriage, then it will pass unnoticed, coming out as a bloody clot. The girl will not even pay attention, just thinking about the beginning of menstruation.

In cases of planning a child, this week is exciting for future parents. By taking care of your health, you can prevent the risk of miscarriage.

Causes of miscarriages:

Hormonal disbalance. During pregnancy, a woman produces progesterone; its lack and the predominance of male hormones will lead to miscarriage. In some cases, when a woman’s body does not produce progesterone well, the gynecologist prescribes medications containing this hormone.
About 70% of miscarriages occur due to a genetic mutation. Working conditions, nutrition, and environmental ecology can affect the development of the fetus. Nature takes its toll - the fittest will survive: a healthy and strong embryo.
Strict diet. You should not starve or go on diets while planning pregnancy.
Previous abortions complicate the process of conception, they can lead to inflammation, which, in turn, will not allow the embryo to gain a foothold in the uterus.
Much also depends on the sensitivity of the female body, stress, alcohol and smoking affect the risk of miscarriage. Take care of your health and the health of your baby.

Symptoms

The 4th week definitely gives signs of pregnancy, because the fertilized egg has implanted in the uterus and the development of the embryo has begun. But still, more often than not, a woman does not notice severe symptoms or confuses them with signs of the onset of menstruation.

What sensations arise?

The lower abdomen hurts and pulls, due to the body’s restructuring to perform new functions.
The mammary glands swell and prepare to feed the baby, which leads to pain and breast enlargement.
In individual cases, early toxicosis begins.

Toxicosis is a reaction of the brain to the process of changes in metabolism in the body, in connection with the birth of a new life. Signs of toxicosis are similar to those of food poisoning: nausea, vomiting.

Fighting toxicosis

Nutrition

It's time to switch to healthy eating. Avoid fatty foods, eat more vegetables and fruits, but do not indulge in exotic species (they cause diabetes in a child).

Try to remove coffee from your diet. It suppresses appetite and causes uterine tone. Coffee excites, which affects a woman’s normal sleep; her body gets stressed, which negatively affects the fetus.

Consume dairy products, fish and lean meat. Avoid eating foods that are low in nutrients (cakes, pastries) but lead to weight gain.

Weight control

You should start controlling your body weight. But don't go on a diet. Any diet has a very detrimental effect on the baby’s health, since the fetus will not receive the necessary nutrients in sufficient quantities. Remember, fasting and dietary restrictions also affect the mother, and one of the first symptoms will be malaise.

During approximately the first trimester, a pregnant woman gains 1.5 - 2 kg (about 500 grams weekly) in weight.

Every female body is individual, so you should know how much weight you should gain in the fourth week. The calculation is quite simple:

Divide your weight by your height squared. If the resulting number is less than 19.6, you should gain 900 grams, when the number is within 19.6 - 26.0, then 700 grams, and if more than 26, then 500 grams.

As you can see, weight gain varies from person to person. A thin woman should gain more weight than a plump woman in order to give birth to a strong, healthy baby. Therefore, some dietary rules are changing. For example, thin mothers should include more flour and protein foods in their diet to gain weight.

Keep in mind that weight gain numbers can vary depending on the individual, this is not a rule, but only guidelines for the overall picture of how to gain weight correctly. If you have not gained weight within 4 weeks, contact an antenatal clinic or consult a gynecologist.

Discharge from the genital tract

Slightly whitish or transparent discharge without odor or color is considered normal; thickness and abundance do not matter. Continuous bloody discharge is considered a pathology. Small bleeding may appear, because usually during this period a non-pregnant woman has her next period, and the uterus may react as if “out of habit.” Consult your personal obstetrician-gynecologist about this.

But cheesy, flaky discharge, an unpleasant odor or a yellowish (grayish or greenish) color indicates a problem in the woman’s body. You should be examined by a gynecologist.

Questions and answers

Q: What is the normal level of hCG concentration in the fourth week of pregnancy?
A: At the 4th week of pregnancy, the hCG value is considered normal within the range of 25 - 300 mU/ml (mU/ml=U/l). In general, each laboratory has its own normative limits for the hCG value, so it is better to find out about the norm from a laboratory assistant or an obstetrician-gynecologist. Sometimes a significant deviation in the hCG value towards an increase indicates twins or triplets.

Q: Am I 4 weeks pregnant and have ARVI? What does this mean for the baby?
A: Viruses are extremely dangerous for the embryo; pregnancy can end either in spontaneous miscarriage/abortion (with a frozen pregnancy), or the embryo begins to develop defectively, having some kind of defect.
It is important to prescribe the correct treatment that will not harm the health of the embryo. Be sure to consult your obstetrician-gynecologist about cold treatment. Do not under any circumstances rely on the advice of pharmacists, acquaintances and doctors who have given consultations in absentia. Everything is much more serious and you shouldn’t rely on it going away on its own.

Do not delay treatment even if the course of the disease occurs during the holidays. It is better not to reduce the temperature to 38 ºC with medication; try to lower it using folk methods: rub the body with water and vinegar, make compresses from cabbage leaves, drink hot linden tea with raspberries or warm milk with honey. As a last resort, take half a Paracetamol tablet, Aquamaris will help with nasal congestion, and gargling with a solution of soda and salt for a sore throat (a teaspoon of soda and the same amount of salt per glass of water).

Video

Photo of the fetus on ultrasound

So, the long-awaited 4th week of pregnancy has arrived. Now you know for sure that you are pregnant and enjoy watching the changes in your body.