Welcome to the fifth week of your pregnancy journey! Here’s what to expect…
MIND:
Before we give you a celebratory high five, let’s take a moment. That commercial you just watched? We totally understand if it made you tear up. It’s completely natural to feel emotional right now — those crazy hormone levels are at play, and mood swings are just part of the package along with a variety of other delightful symptoms.
BODY:
At this stage, your body is going through several changes. You might notice that your breasts are becoming tender, swollen, and quite sensitive — not as enjoyable as it sounds, we know. Additionally, the surge in hormones is increasing blood flow to your kidneys, which explains that frequent urge to run to the bathroom. And let’s not forget the fatigue that seems to linger no matter how much rest you get.
When you find those rare moments of calm where you aren’t dashing to the restroom, make sure to schedule your first prenatal appointment. While they may not want to see you until you hit the eight-week mark, early prenatal care is crucial, so mark that on your calendar. Remember to note the first day of your last period, as this will help your doctor determine your estimated due date.
During this time, it’s essential to be aware of what to avoid in your diet, as your susceptibility to food-borne illnesses increases. Say goodbye to alcohol, raw or undercooked foods, high-mercury fish, and unpasteurized dairy products for the time being.
BABY:
Believe it or not, your tiny baby already has a heartbeat (though it won’t be audible for a few more weeks), and the umbilical cord is beginning to form. If you haven’t already started taking those hefty prenatal vitamins, it’s time to get started. And don’t stress about that fun night out you had last weekend; it won’t have any lasting effects on your baby!
NEST:
Invest in a good-quality maternity bra; those cute lacy ones are going to take a backseat for now.
For even more insights, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy: IVF Babble. If you’re curious about fertility, you can also explore this blog post for helpful tips. For additional information on home insemination, consider looking at Avocado Oil.
Summary:
In week five of your pregnancy, expect emotional fluctuations due to hormonal changes. Your body is undergoing various transformations, including breast tenderness and increased bathroom trips. Schedule your first prenatal appointment and be mindful of your diet to avoid food-borne illnesses. Your baby already has a heartbeat, and it’s important to start taking prenatal vitamins. Lastly, invest in some comfortable maternity wear as you embrace this exciting journey ahead.