What to expect at 4 weeks pregnant
Your baby
This week your baby is approximately 2 mm in size, weighs less than 1 gram and may even be detectable by a home pregnancy test by now.
This week is where your baby, which is now called an embryo, begins to start forming its organs – some will even start to work! The blastocyst splits into two sections; one which will make up your baby and one which will become the placenta, which will be your baby’s lifeline while it is growing and developing inside you.
While the placenta is still forming and taking up its position over the next few weeks, the baby receives nutrients through a tiny yolk sac until the placenta is ready.
The embryo is now also surrounded by fluid inside the amniotic sac.
How you’re feeling
If you don’t yet know you’re pregnant, you’re likely getting close to missing your period – so if you haven’t felt any changes up until now this could be your first clue.
If you do a home pregnancy test and it comes back positive it might be time to book an appointment with your doctor or midwife. You can go see your GP who will do a blood test to confirm the pregnancy, or you can wait to see a specialised obstetrician or midwife who will usually see you from around 8 weeks.
If you think you are pregnant, there are certain foods that you should avoid eating. Make sure you talk to your midwife or doctor about what these are or check out our list here.
Some home pregnancy tests might not yet be able to detect a positive result, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you are not pregnant. It just might be too soon to pick it up – wait a few more days and then try again.
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Weekly tip
Now can be a good time to double-check any medication you are taking. If you’re unsure about any current medications, speak with your doctor to make sure it is safe to continue taking them throughout your pregnancy.
It can also be good to check what over-the-counter products you are using – especially beauty products. Some products are not safe to take during pregnancy including (but not limited to) Vitamin A’s and retinoids which are commonly used in skincare targeting at anti-ageing (although these risks are very low).
What’s happening with your pregnancy next week…
- What to expect at 5 weeks pregnant
- What to expect at 6 weeks pregnant
- What to expect at 7 weeks pregnant
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Dr Christine Catling Follow +
Dr Christine Catling, a midwife for over 25 years, is the Director of Midwifery Studies at UTS. She believes research, innovation and good quality midwifery are pivotal to the well-being of mothers and young families. Christine has extensive experience in antenatal education, policy development and research, and has published on workforce issues, homebirth, vaginal birth...
