Gestational Weeks 0 - 4
The First Month
Baby's Growth
After the sperm and egg combined, your newly created baby began a process of cell division that could rightly be called "explosive." In these first four weeks, before some women even realize they are pregnant, your baby has begun to develop everything it needs to survive until birth. The fertilized egg will create your baby, the placenta, the amniotic sac and the amniotic fluid.
The creation of your baby begins before he is even attached to your uterine lining. As the egg divides and grows, cells begin to be specialized. Approximately 10 days after fertilization, your baby implants in the uterus. The lungs, heart and spinal cord begin to form. By the third week of life your baby 's heart is already pumping blood on its own.
By the end of the fourth week your baby is less than .03 oz, and is approximately 1/8 of an inch long.
Mom's Changes
When the egg becomes fertilized, your body begins producing higher levels of progesterone to prevent menstruation and keep the pregnancy healthy. It is initially produced by the ovary, but production will eventually be taken over by the placenta.
In response to the progesterone, the uterine lining thickens and the blood supply to the uterus increases. The cervix plugs with mucus to provide a protective barrier. Your uterus begins to enlarge and soften to allow implantation.
As your uterus begins to change, you may notice some pre-menstrual type cramping. The increased metabolic rate and the growth of the uterus causes an increased need to urinate. You will probably be more tired than usual and may even have short periods of faintness. The pregnancy hormones trigger the maturation process in the mammary glands, which may cause breast tenderness or soreness.
Common Symptoms
The following symptoms are commonly experienced during this month. Please click on a symptom to learn why it happens and what you can do about it.
Urinary Frequency
Breast Soreness
Increased Fatigue
Decreased Libido
Faintness
Nausea and Vomiting
Pregnancy Symptoms
You May Also Be Interested In:Check out 40 Weeks the weekly Christian guide to pregnancy published by Birthing Naturally. The Natural Childbirth Directory can help you find more information about pregnancy and locate childbirth professionals. Choosing your midwife is one of the most important decisions you will make. Nutrition at Birthing Naturally gives you information to ensure you are eating healthy for two. Learn to tell the difference between a pregnancy truth and Pregnancy Myths. Shop Motherwear's Weekly Web Specials! Visit often for special web-only savings on Motherwear's garments!
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