Pregnancy Week 6
By this week, a few women will know they are pregnant, and many may be wondering if they should run out for that pregnancy test. It’s common for women in early pregnancy to experience some spotting, making it even more unclear whether they are getting their period or they might be pregnant.
‘Pregnancy Test’ by Esparta on flickr
Some spotting or light bleeding during the first trimester is usually nothing to be too concerned about. Read First Trimester Bleeding to learn more about what’s normal and what’s not.
Headaches, frequent urination, and heartburn are all common complaints this week.
Read: Heartburn and Indigestion in Pregnancy
Your Baby’s Development
This week, your baby is between .08 and .16 inches from crown to rump (that is, from the top of her head to the round of her buttocks.) and about the size of a sesame seed, living in your uterus which is about the size of an apple.
This week is a very significant one in your baby’s early development. The neural groove will close, the eyes and early brain chambers will form, limb and ear buds can be seen, the heart tubes fuse together, and heart contractions will begin.
The lungs, pancreas, liver, and thyroid will form this week. Your baby will develop the first set of 3 sets of kidneys. Ironically, this first set will never function.
The placenta will begin to exchange nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between you and your baby.
The Power of Protein
Protein is extremely important during pregnancy to promote healthy growth in your baby, and to keep your own body nourished.
Dr. Brewer, who developed The Brewer Diet, has done extensive research into the importance of protein during pregnancy, and discovered a link between lack of protein and common diseases of pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia, preterm labor, and low birth-weight babies.
Protein also helps to stabilize your blood sugar. Low blood sugar can contribute to nausea and morning sickness. For some women, keeping a steady blood sugar through a well balanced diet, and plenty of protein, helps to relieve their nausea considerably.
Read more about The Brewer Diet.
Article by Vanessa Pruitt
Vanessa Pruitt is a doula and the founder of Natural Family Today, where she writes about pregnancy and birth, eating real food, and natural living.
Vanessa has written 161 awesome articles for Natural Family Today.
