Help your baby develop in the fourth week of your pregnancy.
The foundation of your baby’s brain starts developing this week. Support your baby’s growth by eating DHA, folate, and protein-rich food.
What's happening this week?
Your baby is a tiny ball of rapidly developing cells known as a blastocyst, around 0.36-1 mm in lengthi. It has comfortably settled inside your uterus, which has been preparing for this moment by developing a lining thick with nutrient-rich bloodii.
Amniotic fluid is collecting and a yolk sac is forming. Part of the blastocyst will grow into your baby; while another part of it turns into your placenta. Upon implantation into the rich lining of your uterus, the blastocyst becomes an embryo and so begins your life-long bond with your babyiii.
What can you expect?
At the end of this week, you’ll probably be waiting on your period—will it come or not? If it doesn’t, then you might just be pregnant! To be sure, you can take a blood test even though you haven’t yet missed your period. Your tiny baby’s neural tube has started to developiv.
It is this that turns into his or her brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. The hormones flooding your body may result in headaches – one of the very first signs of pregnancy. Drink plenty of water and cut down on foods that may trigger headaches, like caffeine. Remember, do seek medical help if the pain from the headaches becomes severe.
What can you do to support your pregnancy?
At this stage, you’re probably mostly preoccupied with having a safe and healthy pregnancy. You can do that by maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. Nourish your baby’s brain growth by consuming around 200mg of DHAv and 400mcg of folic acidvi daily. By consuming adequate protein and other essential nutrients, you are, in effect, also nurturing your baby’s development, including the foundation of your baby’s brain.
Constipation is a common symptom of pregnancy, and one that you might experience soon. Be prepared for it with these tips:
- Eat more fiber. Fiber helps to move your stools through your system more efficiently. Good fiber sources include fresh fruits and vegetables; and whole grains, such as breads and cereals.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated has plenty of health benefits, including the prevention of constipation.
- Exercise. A daily walk not only helps you stay healthy, but also helps regularize your bowel movements.vii
You could also start researching obstetricians (asking your mum or your friends is a good place to start) so that you can make an appointment the moment your pregnancy is confirmed.
