Navigating Pregnancy: Your Complete Week by Week Guide

Overview of pregnancy

Pregnancy is a unique and exciting time for women as they embark on the journey of bringing a new life into the world. During pregnancy, women undergo various physical, emotional and hormonal changes as their bodies prepare for childbirth. Understanding these changes and tracking the progress of the pregnancy is crucial for a healthy and safe pregnancy.

Importance of tracking pregnancy by week

Tracking pregnancy by week is an effective way for women to stay informed about the growth and development of their baby. It provides insight into what to expect during each stage of pregnancy and allows women to prepare for any potential complications. By tracking their pregnancy by week, women can stay on top of important prenatal appointments and tests, and take necessary steps to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby.

Brief explanation of how pregnancy is calculated

Pregnancy is calculated based on the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period, with a typical pregnancy lasting approximately 40 weeks. This is why pregnancy is usually referred to in weeks, starting from week 1 and ending with week 40. By tracking their pregnancy by week, women can stay informed about what is happening inside their bodies and with their baby.

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)

Week 1 and 2

1. Fertilization and implantation
The first two weeks of pregnancy are considered the start of the embryonic stage. During this time, the egg is fertilized by the sperm and begins to travel down the fallopian tube. Once the fertilized egg reaches the uterus, it implants itself in the uterine wall and begins to grow.
2. Changes in the body
During these early weeks, women may not experience any noticeable physical changes or symptoms. However, the hormones involved in pregnancy can cause some mild symptoms, such as fatigue and morning sickness.

Week 3-4

1. Development of the embryo
During weeks 3 and 4, the embryo begins to develop rapidly. At this stage, the heart and nervous system begin to form, and the neural tube closes.
2. Symptoms and changes in the body
Women may start to experience some symptoms during this time, such as bloating, constipation, and tender breasts. Some women may also experience a small amount of spotting or cramping, which is normal and should not cause alarm.

Week 5-8

1. Development of the fetus
During weeks 5 through 8, the fetus begins to form its arms, legs, and other body parts. At this stage, the fetus is approximately 1 inch long and weighs less than 1 ounce.
2. Changes in the body and possible symptoms
During these weeks, women may experience increased fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. They may also start to notice a slight rounding of their belly as the uterus begins to expand.

Week 9-12

1. Formation of major organs
During weeks 9 through 12, the fetus’s major organs, such as the liver, lungs, and kidneys, begin to form and function. At this stage, the fetus’s face and fingers also start to take shape.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may experience a range of symptoms during these weeks, such as headaches, dizziness, and back pain. They may also notice that their abdomen is growing and their clothing is becoming tighter. As the uterus continues to expand, women may start to feel the baby move and kick, a special moment that they can look forward to in the coming weeks.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26)

Week 13-16

1. Development of the fetus
During these weeks, the fetus continues to grow and mature, reaching approximately 4-5 inches in length and 4-5 ounces in weight. The fetus’s bones start to harden and the hair on their head begins to grow.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience relief from some of the symptoms they experienced during the first trimester, such as nausea and fatigue. They may also start to feel more energetic and experience an increased appetite. Some women may start to notice the baby’s movements more frequently.

Week 17-20

1. Formation of senses
During these weeks, the fetus’s senses, such as hearing and touch, start to develop. The fetus begins to suck its thumb and the fetus’s skin starts to become thicker.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience some new symptoms during these weeks, such as skin pigmentation changes, known as melasma, or the “mask of pregnancy.” They may also start to feel more pressure on their bladder, making it more difficult to go for long periods without needing to use the restroom.

Week 21-24

1. Development of the fetus
During these weeks, the fetus continues to grow, reaching approximately 10-11 inches in length and 2-3 pounds in weight. The fetus’s lung capacity increases and their skin becomes smoother and less wrinkled.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience more discomfort during these weeks, such as back pain and difficulty sleeping. They may also start to feel more pressure on their diaphragm, making it more difficult to breathe.

Week 25-26

1. Preparation for birth
During these weeks, the fetus begins to prepare for birth by moving into a head-down position in the uterus. The fetus’s bones and muscles continue to strengthen in preparation for birth.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions during these weeks, which are painless contractions that help the uterus prepare for childbirth. They may also start to feel more pressure on their pelvis, making it more difficult to walk or stand for long periods.

Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40)

Week 27-30

1. Development of the fetus
During these weeks, the fetus continues to grow, reaching approximately 14-16 inches in length and 5-6 pounds in weight. The fetus’s brain continues to develop and the fetus’s skin becomes more opaque.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience increased discomfort during these weeks, such as shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, and increased Braxton Hicks contractions. They may also start to notice more pelvic pressure, making it more difficult to walk or stand for long periods.

Week 31-34

1. Preparation for birth
During these weeks, the fetus’s position in the uterus becomes more established and the fetus’s lungs become more mature. The fetus’s head may also engage in the pelvis, indicating that labor is imminent.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience increased pressure on their bladder, making it more difficult to go for long periods without needing to use the restroom. They may also start to experience increased back pain and pelvic pain as the fetus prepares for birth.

Week 35-38

1. Development of the fetus
During these weeks, the fetus continues to grow, reaching approximately 18-20 inches in length and 6-8 pounds in weight. The fetus’s immune system continues to develop and the fetus’s hair and nails become more established.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience increased difficulty sleeping, difficulty breathing, and increased Braxton Hicks contractions. They may also start to feel more pressure on their pelvis and increased contractions, indicating that labor is near.

Week 39-40

1. Final preparations for birth
During these final weeks, the fetus’s organs become fully mature and the fetus prepares for birth by settling into the pelvic area. The fetus’s head may engage in the pelvis, indicating that labor is imminent.
2. Changes in the body and symptoms
Women may start to experience increased discomfort during these final weeks, such as shortness of breath, back pain, and pelvic pain. They may also start to experience increased contractions, indicating that labor is near. It’s important for women to be aware of the signs of labor and to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms that are concerning.