Pregnancy Calendar at Week 7

What's Happening with the Baby

At the 7th week of pregnancy, the embryo reaches a length of 1.2-1.3 cm. It weighs about 1.7-2 grams. It doesn't look much like a human yet — the head is much larger than the body, and the limbs are in a rudimentary state. The face is just beginning to show basic features — nose, eyes, mouth. But at this stage, very important processes are happening:

the foundation of the embryo's nervous system — parts of the brain and spinal cord;
nerve cells are forming, and primary neural connections are developing;
the bones of the skeleton are being laid down;
major blood vessels are forming;
the digestive system is taking shape;
tooth buds are appearing in the mouth;
the kidneys are starting to function;
the lungs and bronchi continue to develop;
the formation of the heart chambers is being completed;
the first blood cells — red and white blood cells — are forming in the liver;
a small bump is forming in the genital area, which will develop into the sex organs.

The placenta is actively forming. This is the main organ for the embryo, through which it receives oxygen and nutrient-rich blood from the mother. The embryo is not yet capable of perceiving sounds or the mother's emotional state, as its nervous system has not developed. Its movements are involuntary and chaotic. During this period, the embryo is highly susceptible to negative factors. Medications, infections, maternal injuries, nicotine, and alcohol can disrupt its development. The brain is particularly sensitive to negative factors. If genetic mutations occur that can disrupt the further development of the fetus, a miscarriage happens.

What's Happening with Mom

The external changes in a pregnant woman at 7 weeks are hardly noticeable. However, the expectant mother herself notes the changes happening in her body. The main changes at this stage occur with the uterus and hormonal background.

Weight Change

Most women experience a slight weight gain of about 3-4 pounds. This is not due to the growth of the embryo but rather hormonal changes. Women with severe morning sickness may experience weight loss of about 3-4 pounds. More significant weight loss is an unfavorable sign. In this case, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist and undergo additional examination.

Slight Belly Enlargement

This is noticeable only in slender women. The belly growth is not related to the growth of the uterus, which is still very small. The slight bloating is due to an increase in fat layer and increased gas production in the intestines. This happens because of hormonal changes. A pregnant woman might notice her belly growing because her clothes are getting tighter.

Increased Fatigue

The expectant mother notices that she gets tired more quickly than usual and often feels sleepy. The developing embryo takes a lot of energy and nutrients, which leads to a state of fatigue. Many pregnant women also experience excessive emotionality, such as irritability and tearfulness.

Increased Appetite

The reason for the increased need for food is the same — the embryo needs a lot of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. That's why the expectant mother often feels hungry if she doesn't have severe morning sickness. It's important not to overdo it here, so as not to gain excessive weight.

Breast Pain

The breasts are the first to respond to pregnancy. They slightly enlarge and become firmer. The areola becomes more pigmented. This happens due to hormonal changes. Mild pain sensations are not dangerous.

Uterine Growth

The woman herself does not feel it, and it is not noticeable externally either. Since the embryo is only 1.2 cm in size, the uterus enlarges slightly. It becomes more loose and soft. The cervix fills with blood and takes on a bluish color. These changes can only be seen by a gynecologist during a vaginal exam.

Frequent Urination

The woman goes to the bathroom more often than usual because the blood flow to the pelvic organs increases. Additionally, the expectant mother drinks more fluids. This is a normal condition as long as there is no burning sensation during urination and no abdominal pain.

Acne

The skin of a pregnant woman becomes oily, and blackheads and pimples appear. This happens due to a decrease in estrogen levels and an increase in progesterone. Some expectant mothers also develop pigment spots on their face and chest.

Hair Loss and Increased Nail Brittleness

The embryo takes a large amount of calcium from the mother's body. Because of this, nails become brittle and hair roots weaken. There can also be pain in the bones and joints. Some pregnant women experience the opposite effect—hair becomes fuller and thicker, and nails get stronger.

Nausea

More than half of women experience morning sickness. Typically, it occurs in a mild form. Nausea bothers the expectant mother in the mornings and can be triggered by strong smells or certain foods. If vomiting occurs, it is considered severe morning sickness and may require medical intervention.

Digestive Issues

Many pregnant women experience loose stools and bloating around the 7th week. This is due to hormonal changes and adjustments in digestive function. The condition is not accompanied by abdominal pain or fever. Treatment is not necessary; adjusting the diet is usually sufficient.

Headaches

Headaches are related to vascular spasms due to the redistribution of blood flow. They usually occur in the evening, have a bursting character, and are of low intensity. They resolve on their own and do not require medication.

Pulling Sensations in the Lower Abdomen

These sensations are associated with increased blood flow to the uterus and its growth. They do not cause significant discomfort and do not require treatment.

Heavy Discharge

There are more abundant vaginal discharges than usual. This is mucus produced by the cervical canal to protect the fetus. Normal discharges are clear or whitish and almost odorless.

Changes in Taste Preferences and Smells

At the 7th week, such changes are rare. They are related to hormonal imbalances and manifest as aversion to previously liked smells or foods. Even more rarely, there is a craving for things not typically consumed as food. Changes in taste preferences are more characteristic of later stages.

Swelling in the Legs and Face

The swelling is minor and occurs in the evenings or mornings. It is associated with hormonal changes and an increase in fluid intake. A woman may notice the swelling because it becomes harder to put on shoes.

Unstable Blood Pressure

There are fluctuations from low to high blood pressure throughout the day. This instability is due to the blood vessels adapting to a new type of circulation. This condition does not require treatment.

Development of Twins

In a multiple pregnancy, embryos are always smaller in size and weight compared to a single pregnancy. Each twin at the 7th week is less than 1 cm in length and weighs about 1 gram. Twins can be either identical or fraternal. Identical twins share a placenta and an amniotic sac, have an identical genetic makeup, and are always of the same sex. Fraternal twins develop in separate amniotic sacs, each with its own placenta. Their genetic makeup differs slightly, and they can be either the same sex or different sexes.

The stages of twin development are the same as for a single embryo. By the 7th week of pregnancy, both embryos have formed a brain and spinal cord, as well as a digestive system. Blood cells are produced in the liver. The uterus enlarges more quickly than in a single pregnancy. The woman's well-being is similar to that in a single pregnancy. There is no link between having twins and experiencing stronger morning sickness, fatigue, or other changes.

At this stage, various pathologies are possible, such as the death of one embryo or the fusion of the embryos, resulting in conjoined twins.

Medical Examination

By the 7th week, a woman is usually well aware that she is pregnant. Therefore, she should visit a prenatal clinic to register and undergo a comprehensive medical examination.

Doctors

Obstetrician-gynecologist — the primary specialist who will oversee the pregnancy;
Therapist — rules out heart diseases, digestive system disorders, and kidney issues;
Ophthalmologist — rules out myopia and retinal diseases;
Infectious disease specialist — rules out acute and chronic infectious diseases;
Dermatologist-venereologist — rules out skin diseases and urogenital infections;
Dentist — treats cavities and extracts teeth if necessary;
ENT doctor — rules out ear, nose, and throat diseases, and prescribes treatment if needed.

Tests

Complete blood count and urinalysis;
Biochemical blood test;
Blood test for hCG;
Blood test for HIV, viral hepatitis B and C, syphilis;
Blood coagulation test;
Blood test for TORCH infections — rubella, toxoplasmosis, herpes viruses, cytomegalovirus;
Determination of blood type and Rh factor;
Swab for urogenital infections;
Stool test for microflora and helminths.

Procedures

Ultrasound (US) — used to confirm pregnancy and rule out ectopic pregnancy;
Vaginal examination — the doctor assesses the condition of the uterus, cervix, and cervical canal;
Electrocardiogram (EKG) — to rule out any heart conditions that could complicate the pregnancy.

Pregnancy Challenges

In the early stages of pregnancy, when the embryo is still forming, complications can arise due to improper positioning of the fetus, genetic mutations, or external factors.

Ectopic Pregnancy

This condition occurs when a fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. There have been cases where the egg attaches to the ovary or abdominal organs. While the egg continues to develop, these organs are not equipped to sustain a pregnancy. The fallopian tube cannot stretch to accommodate the growing embryo, leading to a rupture. This condition is accompanied by sharp abdominal pain and internal bleeding. Emergency surgery is required. Causes of ectopic pregnancy include uterine scars, pelvic adhesions, and chronic reproductive infections.

Missed Miscarriage

In this condition, the embryo inside the gestational sac stops developing and dies. The causes can include acute infectious diseases, abdominal trauma, genetic disorders, severe stress, and the use of certain medications. At 7 weeks, a woman cannot determine a missed miscarriage on her own, as there is no weight gain or fetal movements at this stage. The cessation of fetal development is identified by a gynecologist using an ultrasound. If the pregnant woman does not seek medical attention, the embryo decomposes, leading to infection and inflammation of the uterus. This condition is accompanied by high fever, nausea, and abdominal pain. Immediate surgical intervention is required.

Miscarriage

If the embryo is non-viable at 7 weeks, it is rejected. The gestational sac detaches and exits the uterus. The causes of early miscarriage are usually related to developmental defects in the embryo that are incompatible with life. These can be triggered by the use of certain medications, infectious diseases, trauma, and genetic mutations. During a miscarriage, a woman experiences cramping pain in the lower abdomen and spotting or heavy bleeding. This situation requires urgent consultation with a gynecologist. Generally, the pregnancy cannot be saved, and a uterine curettage is performed.

Formation of Fetal Developmental Defects

During the 7th week of pregnancy, the formation of the embryo's vital organs takes place. This process can be disrupted by both external and internal factors, leading to various defects. Causes can include the intake of teratogenic medications, infections with rubella virus, herpes, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, and genetic anomalies. Defects can form in the heart, brain, intestines, and lungs. Most of these defects are incompatible with life, resulting in a miscarriage. If the defects do not hinder the embryo's development, the woman cannot detect them on her own. Abnormalities are only discovered through an ultrasound. Besides developmental defects, genetic mutations leading to Down syndrome can also occur during the 7th week.

Blighted Ovum

This is a rare pregnancy pathology where a gestational sac forms, but there is no embryo inside. It attaches to the uterine wall and causes corresponding changes in the woman's body. Pregnancy hormones are produced, so the HCG test is positive. However, the embryo does not develop. This condition can only be detected through an ultrasound performed at intervals of 1-2 weeks. Causes of this condition can include medications, urinary tract infections, and genetic disorders.

Intrauterine Fetal Infection

The embryo at 7 weeks is highly susceptible to various infections. These can reach it from the vagina or through the mother's bloodstream. Particularly dangerous for the embryo are rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus infection, and herpes infection. These can cause severe developmental defects or even lead to the death of the embryo.

What You Can and Can't Do

At 7 weeks pregnant, it's especially important to lead a healthy lifestyle. This stage involves the formation of all organs and the rapid development of the embryo. Any harmful influences can lead to developmental defects or miscarriage.

What Moms-to-Be CAN Do:

Continue working, but avoid heavy lifting and inhaling harmful substances;
Take walks in the forest or park, and socialize with friends — pregnancy doesn't mean complete isolation from society;
Read classic literature and listen to calming music — this helps distract from potential stress and worries;
Take special prenatal vitamin complexes — the developing embryo needs a large amount of vitamins and minerals, which are often insufficient in food;
Engage in sports, but avoid running and heavy lifting;
Take care of yourself and use makeup;
Read specialized literature for pregnant women that describes the baby's intrauterine development and the birthing process;
Do household chores, but avoid using highly toxic cleaning products;
Have sex, but with caution.

What Moms-to-Be CAN'T Do:

Smoking and drinking alcohol — at 7 weeks, these substances pose the greatest danger to the developing fetus;
Lifting heavy objects and doing strength exercises — increased intra-abdominal pressure can trigger a miscarriage;
Wearing tight, belly-constricting clothing — this disrupts blood flow in the uterine area;
Taking any medications without urgent necessity — even acetaminophen can negatively affect fetal development at 7 weeks;
Interacting with infectious patients and visiting crowded places — almost all infections are dangerous for the fetus in early pregnancy;
Contacting stray animals — they can also carry dangerous infections;
Getting stressed — stress can cause pregnancy complications;
Dyeing hair with ammonia-based products — toxic substances penetrate the bloodstream and reach the embryo;
Consuming large amounts of coffee and strong tea — caffeine increases vascular tone, which can lead to placental abruption;
Overheating in a bath or sauna — high temperatures cause blood vessels to expand, which can lead to uterine bleeding.

Proper Nutrition

Food is the main source of vitamins and micronutrients that are essential for both the expecting mom and the baby. That's why your diet should be as complete and balanced as possible. The eating schedule is also important because a pregnant woman's digestive function changes due to hormones.

At 7 weeks pregnant, it is recommended to:

Eat small portions frequently, about 5-6 times a day;
Limit the intake of fatty, fried, and smoked foods — these disrupt digestion and impair the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream;
Drink about 2 liters of water daily — an increased blood volume is necessary for the developing embryo;
Consume fresh fruits and vegetables daily — they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber for digestion;
Eat meat every day — it is the primary source of protein for the embryo;
Include dairy products in your daily diet — they are a source of calcium;
Limit the intake of peas, cabbage, and black bread — these foods can cause bloating and discomfort in the abdomen;
Consume grains and pasta — they are slow-digesting carbs and an important energy source;
Eat seafood, nuts, and avocados — these foods contain fatty acids essential for the development of the fetal nervous system;
Replace candies and pastries with sweet fruits, honey, and jam;
Include butter and olive oil in your daily diet;
Thoroughly cook and fry foods, especially meat and fish;
Avoid consuming raw freshwater fish.

The quality of food for an expectant mother is extremely important. Most pregnant women at 7 weeks experience morning sickness, and their bodies can't handle just any food. Food poisoning is dangerous for the developing fetus. That's why it's recommended to cook meals at home using only fresh ingredients. It's best to prepare dishes by boiling, baking, or steaming them.

Need for Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins, trace elements, proteins — all of these are crucial for the proper development of a child's body. The need for beneficial substances is at its peak during the 7th week of pregnancy. Women can obtain these from food and specialized vitamin supplements.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

Daily requirement — 1 mg. It is responsible for the metabolism of proteins and fats. It is important for the formation of the fetal nervous system and participates in blood circulation. A deficiency in this vitamin can make the expectant mother feel weak and irritable. Sources include rye and wheat bread, greens, and potatoes.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Daily requirement — 2 mg. It is a component of immune cells and fetal red blood cells. A deficiency in this vitamin can make the expectant mother feel weak, cause dry skin, and lead to cracks on the lips. Sources include beef liver, mushrooms, eggs, and buckwheat.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Daily requirement — 2.5 mg. It is involved in the formation of fetal red and white blood cells. For the expectant mother, it reduces the symptoms of toxicosis. A deficiency in this vitamin can cause insomnia and irritability. Sources include potatoes, carrots, nuts, apples, and citrus fruits.

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

Daily requirement — 400 mcg. The most important vitamin during the 7th week of pregnancy. It is essential for the proper formation of the fetal nervous system and helps prevent neural tube defects. A deficiency can lead to irritability and sleep disturbances. Sources include bran, chicken eggs, yeast bread, and greens.

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)

Daily requirement — 4 mcg. Important for the development of red blood cells and the formation of hemoglobin in both the mother and the fetus. It helps normalize nervous system function and emotional well-being. A deficiency can cause tongue burning, tingling sensations, and muscle cramps. Sources include beef liver, egg yolk, seafood, and dairy products.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Daily requirement — 75 mg. Provides protection for the expectant mother against colds. It prevents blood vessel fragility and significantly reduces the risk of uterine bleeding. A deficiency can cause dry skin, hair loss, and slow wound healing. Sources include potatoes, gooseberries, and citrus fruits.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Daily requirement — 10 IU. Protects the developing fetal cells. It is involved in the formation of connective tissue. A deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, brittle hair, and nails. Sources include beef liver, seafood, and potatoes.

Vitamin D (Calciferol)

Daily requirement — 400 IU. Essential for proper absorption of phosphorus and calcium, and bone tissue growth. Vitamin deficiency in pregnant women is rare. Sources include liver of sea fish, egg yolk, cottage cheese, and milk.

Iron

Daily requirement — 3 mg. Necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, reduces the risk of anemia in both the mother and the fetus. A deficiency in this trace element can cause weakness and pale skin. Sources include meat, apples, buckwheat, and pomegranates.

Iodine

Daily requirement — 200 mcg. Important for the proper formation of the fetal thyroid gland. A deficiency in this trace element can cause excessive weakness, memory deterioration, and impaired cognitive function. Sources include sea fish and seaweed.

Calcium

Daily requirement — 1000 mg. Crucial for the formation of fetal bone tissue. A deficiency in this trace element can cause brittle nails and hair loss. Sources include dairy products, greens, and fruits.

Magnesium

Daily requirement — 300 mg. Needed for hormone production and heart function. A deficiency in this trace element can cause insomnia and mood deterioration. Sources include cheese, nuts, rye and wheat bread, and greens.

Copper

Daily requirement — 1.5 mg. Necessary for maintaining hemoglobin levels, certain hormones, and enzymes. A deficiency in this trace element can cause fatigue and pale skin. Sources include beef liver, buckwheat, and seaweed.

Sodium

Daily requirement — 1500 mg. Important for regulating the body's water balance. A deficiency in this trace element can cause weakness, thirst, and muscle cramps. Source — salt.

Important! You should choose a multivitamin complex after consulting with a doctor.

Helpful Tips

At the 7th week of pregnancy, it's crucial to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It's important to give up any bad habits if you have them. Remember that secondhand smoke, which is inhaling tobacco smoke from others, is just as dangerous as smoking yourself. Therefore, you should avoid close contact with people who smoke and ensure that no one smokes at home.

Support from your spouse is essential for a pregnant woman at any stage. At the 7th week, a pregnant woman is especially sensitive emotionally. So, it's important to make her adaptation to pregnancy as comfortable as possible. The future dad should be patient with his wife's whims and try to fulfill them whenever possible. The main thing to remember is that emotional instability will pass in a few weeks.

Exercises for Expecting Moms

Physical activity during the 7th week of pregnancy is essential for improving blood circulation, oxygenating the body, and strengthening muscles. Any type of sport is acceptable, except for weightlifting and activities with a high risk of injury. Swimming, brisk walking, aerobics, and exercises with a fitness ball are beneficial. The exercises should focus on strengthening the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles:

lifting the upper body while lying down with bent legs;
lifting straight legs while lying down;
pelvic lifts while lying down;
squats;
forward lunges with slightly bent legs;
bending forward and to the sides;
twisting the torso to the sides.

Exercises should be done for 15-20 minutes a day at least 4 times a week. This helps prevent hemorrhoids and cervical insufficiency. It's important to learn breathing exercises that will help oxygenate the body.

Kegel exercises are beneficial for training the vaginal and perineal muscles. They make the muscles more elastic, which can protect them from potential tears during childbirth.

Under the supervision of an instructor, you can practice yoga. There are special poses that are safe for pregnant women. Yoga increases muscle elasticity and teaches proper breathing techniques.

Discomforts During Pregnancy

Salivation

Increased salivation is associated with the restructuring of the digestive system. It occurs not only at the sight or smell of food but also involuntarily throughout the day. It doesn't cause significant discomfort and doesn't require treatment. It usually goes away on its own after a few weeks.

Heartburn

Burning in the stomach occurs due to hormonal changes and enzyme production. It affects about one-third of pregnant women. To alleviate discomfort, it's important to maintain a proper diet and follow a routine. The use of antacid medications is recommended only in severe cases.

Abdominal Pain

About half of pregnant women experience mild, pulling pains in the lower abdomen. Normally, these pains are of low intensity and go away on their own after a short rest. This discomfort is related to the increased blood flow to the muscles. If the pain intensifies or lasts for a long time, you should consult a gynecologist.

Lower Back Pain

Under normal pregnancy conditions, there shouldn't be any lower back pain at 7 weeks. If it does occur, it could be related to an ectopic pregnancy, kidney disease, or an infection. You should see a doctor for an examination.

Vaginal Discharge

Pathological discharges are yellow, green, foamy, and have an unpleasant odor. They indicate the presence of a urinary tract infection. Brown and bloody discharges can be a sign of a miscarriage. In any case, if such discharges appear, the pregnant woman should see a doctor.

Yeast Infection

This is a result of hormonal changes. Yeast infections are characterized by cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge and severe itching. They are treated with antifungal medications recommended by a doctor.

Vomiting

Normal morning sickness only involves nausea. Vomiting indicates a more severe condition. Hospitalization in the gynecology department is required because vomiting leads to the loss of a significant amount of nutrients, which slows down the development of the embryo.

Cystitis

This is a common issue for pregnant women. It occurs due to hypothermia or infection entering the bladder. Symptoms include pulling pains in the lower abdomen, frequent urination, and fever. For further examination and treatment, a doctor should be consulted.

Cold

About a third of pregnant women experience this, as a lowered immune system is linked to hormonal changes. Mild cases are characterized by malaise and a runny nose. In more serious situations, there may be a fever, headache, and cough. For a mild cold, treatment involves rinsing the nose with saline water and drinking acidic beverages. If a fever and cough appear, you should see a doctor.

Bowel Issues

These manifest as either diarrhea or constipation. They are related to changes in digestive function and hormonal levels. They usually resolve on their own once a proper diet is established.

Checklist

Register at the women's health clinic if you haven't already;
Get all necessary tests done;
Have an ECG and ultrasound;
Get checked by all specialized doctors;
Quit any bad habits if you have them;
Establish a routine for eating and resting;
Take daily walks in the fresh air;
Eliminate harmful factors at work;
Visit the dentist and treat any cavities;
Start taking prenatal vitamins;
Start a pregnancy journal;
Eat a meat dish and drink a glass of kefir daily;
Get a scale to monitor weight gain;
Buy a book for future parents;
Avoid stress;
Get into the habit of weighing yourself every morning and evening;
Get an album for your future baby and add the first ultrasound picture;
Rest for at least half an hour during the day;
Buy natural cotton underwear;
Wear comfortable clothes;
Avoid high heels or platform shoes;
Plan a weekly menu considering the baby's needs.