Week 7 of Your Pregnancy

During week seven of your pregnancy, your body undergoes some big changes. Thanks to rising hCG levels, you may be experiencing a type of nausea known as morning sickness. Skin problems may also occur, and you may find yourself running to the bathroom. Yes, the need to urinate can increase this early on. You are also likely preparing for (or attending) your first prenatal appointment. During this appointment, you will meet your care team, ask any questions you've been wondering about, and—more likely than not—hear the heartbeat for the first time! All in all, it’s a big week for you and your developing fetus.

Your Unborn Baby's Size at 7 Weeks

The embryo is still very small, measuring approximately half an inch. It weighs approximately .04 ounces and is about the size of a small blueberry.

Pregnancy Symptoms Week 7 

Here are some common symptoms you might be experiencing during week seven of your pregnancy:

• Frequent urination
• Tender or swollen breasts
• Round ligament pain
• Heightened sense of smell
• Cramps
• Weird cravings

Shieva Ghofrany, M.D., an OB-GYN in Stamford, Connecticut and co-founder of Tribe Called V, points out that while you may not have had any of the above symptoms in the earlier weeks, don't be surprised if there is an onset of them this week or if they increase in severity.

"My boobs were so sore! Even though I didn't look pregnant yet, I definitely felt very pregnant," says Blaine*, 33, from St. Louis.

Dr. Ghofrany explains that while some mild cramping is normal, if you experience cramping or pelvic pain on one side, you should seek medical attention right away because it could indicate an ectopic pregnancy. If you are suffering from an ectopic pregnancy, it's important to identify it as soon as possible so it doesn't become life-threatening. Doctors can determine if this is the case with a variety of tools, including an exam, ultrasound, and blood work.

"I went from being excited about becoming a first-time parent and thinking about baby names to being rushed back into surgery because I was told it was ectopic, all in a matter of hours," shares LaTeisha*, from Huntsville, Alabama. “It was beyond devastating.”

Developmental Milestones

Though your embryo may be small, its development is quite impressive this week. Its brain is growing rapidly, so much so that the head will seem disproportionately larger than the rest of the body. The mouth and ears are starting to form, with dark spots marking where the eyes and nostrils will eventually be. And the liver, stomach, esophagus, and pancreas are all in the early stages of development.

Prenatal Tests and Doctor's Appointments

Dr. Ghofrany explains that the timing of and procedures in your first prenatal visit may vary depending on your symptoms and your health care provider's policies. But typically, your first appointment will take place at seven to eight weeks.

She says that, during this visit, you will be asked about your medical, surgical, vaccination, and family history, as well as what medications you're taking, what allergies you have, and if you have any sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

"Your doctor, midwife, or medical provider might do a speculum exam and/or an ultrasound that could be transvaginal or transabdominal,” says Dr. Ghofrany. “The purpose is to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy (not ectopic) and measure the embryo to confirm that the pregnancy dating (how far along you are) is consistent with your period. If the embryo is measuring bigger or smaller than what we would expect with your period, it may change your due date.”

She says that your visit may also include blood work, or your provider may opt to wait until a later appointment to do it.

If you are 35 or older, it is said you are of advanced maternal age. This is because of increased risk. Some doctors opt to have you undergo additional (or earlier) tests and procedures to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy, but not all do. You should speak to an OB-GYN, midwife, or other health care professional to see what is currently recommended. But remember, it's certainly possible to have a healthy pregnancy and delivery after 35.

"My second pregnancy was considered a ‘geriatric pregnancy.’ Nothing like being called geriatric at 38. Ha! The benefits are that it included so many more tests including blood work early on," shares Camille Ace, 46 from Bakersfield, California.

Yamel Belen, R.N., CLC, registered nurse, professional doula, and certified lactation counselor in Tampa, Florida, says that it's crucial that you advocate for yourself along your pregnancy journey. For instance, if you feel triggered by or don't feel comfortable discussing or knowing your weight at your doctor's visit, be sure to let them know. Don't feel embarrassed or ashamed to ask your provider to clarify something or to inquire about anything you're curious about. "Have an open dialogue with your provider. No question is dumb or off limits!" she insists.

Things You Might Consider This Week

You're seven weeks pregnant and likely feeling the part by now. As you head into the second half of your first trimester, now is a good time to focus on your health by making sure you're drinking lots of water and eating whole, nutritious foods, while steering clear of things or smells that trigger you. At this point, it's normal to have gained (or lost!) a few pounds, especially if you've been vomiting frequently. If your pregnancy so far has been plagued by uncomfortable physical sensations, be aware and encouraged that better days are (hopefully!) just around the corner! Many pregnant people report feeling those awful symptoms like nausea abate in the upcoming weeks. 

Support You May Need This Week

While it's critical that you focus on taking care of your physical body by eating healthy, nourishing foods and getting plenty of exercise and sleep, it's equally important that you take care of your mental health.

We often hear about postpartum depression, but there are also folks who are suffering from mental health issues like depression or anxiety during their pregnancy. Belen shares that these issues can be exacerbated by a previous pregnancy loss. If you find yourself in crisis or in need of someone to talk to, the National Maternal Health Line is a completely free service. You can call in—and be linked to—a trained counselor in minutes.

Meka Robinson, 23 from Mesa, Arizona, remembers feeling off during the early weeks of their pregnancy. "I wasn't sure if it was the hormones, or if I was suffering from mental health issues, or both, but I knew something wasn't right, so I told my doctor and I'm so glad I did."

You may also need support if you find yourself experiencing a miscarriage this week. Pregnancy loss can be difficult and feelings of grief can be overwhelming. If you are one of many folks to experience a miscarriage, know you did nothing wrong. This is not your fault. You are not alone. Reach out for help from family and friends. Lean on your partner, if you have one, and speak to a professional, if needed. Not sure where to start? March of Dimes offers various resources and can connect you with a community of peers who can help you heal.

*Last names have been withheld for privacy.

Head over to week eight of pregnancy