The first 4 weeks of pregnancy
During the first four weeks of pregnancy, some incredible things happen in a woman's body:
Week 1: This is when the actual fertilization takes place. The sperm meets the egg and creates a small cell called a zygote.
Week 2: The zygote begins its journey down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. It begins to divide into more tiny little cells.
Week 3: The zygote reaches the uterus and attaches itself to the lining. It's like finding a cozy place to settle down to continue your development.
Week 4: The zygote continues to grow and begins to develop into an embryo. It is still small, but its cells are multiplying rapidly. By this week, the woman can usually figure out that something is going on as menstruation is usually delayed.
As a woman, during week 4 you can start to experience symptoms of both physical and emotional changes as the body adapts to the pregnancy. Here are some common feelings that may be experienced:
Excitement: The discovery of the pregnancy can bring a wave of joy and excitement when you realize that you are carrying a new life within you and that you are going to become parents.
Fatigue: Increased levels of progesterone can lead to feelings of tiredness and exhaustion, requiring more rest than usual.
Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes can lead to breast tenderness or tenderness as the body prepares for breastfeeding.
Nausea: Some women may begin to experience nausea and vomiting in the morning. Make sure to have something edible by the bed before it's time to get up. It is important to remember that not all women experience this symptom, but many do.
Heightened emotions: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to mood swings, making the woman feel more emotional than usual. You can laugh or cry more easily than usual.
Frequent urination: The growing embryo can put pressure on the bladder, leading to more visits to the toilet many times during the day.
Bloating and mild cramping: Some women may experience bloating and mild cramping similar to menstrual cramps as the uterus begins to expand. It is therefore completely normal to feel a similar period pain at the beginning of pregnancy.