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Your pregnancy at Week 5

Highlights: #

Your Baby at Week 5 #

The placenta forms
The placenta is under construction and will finish forming by the end of the first trimester. It’s an organ that will soon connect your developing fetus to your uterine wall, providing baby-to-be with nutrients and oxygen.

Positive pregnancy test
Your hCG hormone levels are now high enough to confirm you're having a baby in a home pregnancy test.

From embryo to fetus
That mass of cells we call an embryo is starting to look like a fetus, with a forming neural tube (pre-spinal cord and brain) running from head to rump.

Baby has a tail
At this stage, your baby looks like a tadpole with a rudimentary head and a tail. However, don't worry; your little one is developing rapidly into a prince or princess.

Organs are forming
All major and minor bodily systems and organs, including the heart, lungs, stomach, and neural tube, are beginning to develop from scratch.

Your Body at Week 5 #

HCG and home pregnancy tests
By now, you should have missed your period, and it's time to take a pregnancy test. The hCG hormone levels in your body are now high enough to be detected by a home pregnancy test.

Early pregnancy signs
You may experience symptoms like exhaustion, tender breasts, and slight nausea, as your body adapts to the hormonal changes of pregnancy.

Pregnancy hormones kick in
Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and hCG are being mass-produced in your body to support the pregnancy and its development.

Telling your friends you're pregnant
Deciding when to share the news of your pregnancy with friends and family is a personal choice. Some women can't wait to spread the news, while others prefer to wait until after the first trimester.

Pregnancy Symptoms in Week 5 #

Food cravings and aversions
Hormonal changes can lead to food cravings and aversions, so indulge your cravings in moderation and find healthy substitutes for foods you can't stand.

Fatigue
Pregnancy is hard work, and building a life-support system for your baby can leave you feeling tired. Get plenty of rest and eat well to support your energy levels.

Nausea
Nausea and vomiting, often referred to as morning sickness, can occur at any time of the day. Eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated can help manage nausea.

Excessive saliva
Hormones may cause excessive saliva production. Chewing sugarless gum can help reduce drooling.

Things to Take Care in Week 5 #

Avoid the litter box
Pregnant women should avoid handling cat litter, as it may contain a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis.

Schedule a teeth cleaning
Regular teeth cleanings are essential during pregnancy, as some pregnant individuals may be at a higher risk of periodontal disease.

Know your off-limits foods
Certain foods should be avoided during pregnancy, including unpasteurized dairy and juices, undercooked meat and eggs, raw sprouts, raw fish, and high-mercury fish.

Soothe an upset stomach
Try snacking on protein and complex carbs to ease stomach discomfort. Ginger can also help with nausea.

Learn how to manage bloat
Gas and bloating are common during pregnancy. Opt for bloat-friendly food substitutions and stay hydrated.

Exercise for morning sickness?
Light exercises like brisk walking can help alleviate morning sickness. Stay hydrated and have a light snack before and after working out.

Pick your proteins
If you're experiencing aversions to meat, explore alternative protein sources like cottage cheese, yogurt, beans, soy products, and quinoa.

FAQs #

Q: When should I take a pregnancy test?
A: At 5 weeks pregnant, your hCG hormone levels are high enough to show a positive result on a home pregnancy test.

Q: How can I manage morning sickness?
A: Eat small, frequent meals, and opt for bland and easily digestible foods. Ginger and vitamin B6 supplements may also help.

Q: Is it safe to handle cat litter during pregnancy?
A: Pregnant individuals should avoid handling cat litter due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.

Q: What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
A: Unpasteurized dairy and juices, undercooked meat and eggs, raw sprouts, and high-mercury fish should be avoided during pregnancy.

Q: When is the best time to share the news of my pregnancy with friends and family?
A: The timing of sharing the news is a personal choice. Some people choose to announce early, while others prefer to wait until after the first trimester.