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You’re 7 weeks pregnant and big things are happening! Already, your uterus has doubled in size. You might experience some mild abdominal cramping as your uterus continues to expand. Here’s what else to expect this week.
How Big is Baby?
Isn’t amazing how something so tiny could be making all these big changes? Baby is just about a half-inch this week.
What’s New with Baby?
Baby’s head makes up most of its body now, and that’s because there’s so much happening in that little brain of theirs. At 7 weeks, baby’s brain is growing rapidly—making about 100 new brain cells a minute! The neural tube is closing to form the brain and spinal cord. And that sweet little face that you’re dreaming of is just starting to shape as baby’s facial features such as eyes and nostrils are becoming more recognizable.
What’s New with Mom?
What’s that smell? You might be noticing a heightened sense of smell around this point in your pregnancy. About two-thirds of women become more sensitive to scents while expecting, which experts link to those changing hormones. This could make nausea or food aversions worse, so try to avoid any scents you find particularly offensive.
Tender breasts, mood swings, frequent urination, and food aversions and/or cravings are common this week too. It’s no wonder you’re probably feeling pretty tired! Make sure you’re getting plenty of rest and take short naps as needed.
Fun Fact
By next week, 90% of moms-to-be feel some sort of pregnancy symptoms. But if you’re not feeling particularly pregnant, it doesn’t mean something is wrong. Pregnancy experiences vary widely.
Prenatal Vitamins and Over-the-Counter Medicines
Over-the-counter medications are ones that you can buy without a prescription, but not all are safe to use during pregnancy. So, what can you take to help cope with the uncomfortable symptoms you might experience over the next 8 months, not to mention any colds or viruses that pop up? And what you should avoid?
Pre-natal vitamins
Let’s start with what you should be taking every day—prenatal vitamins. “These provide essential nutrients, including folic acid, iron, calcium, and others, that are crucial for the baby’s development,” explains Dr. Thomas Hyslop, an Ob/Gyn at UT Southwestern Medical Center. “They help compensate for any nutritional gaps in the mother’s diet during pregnancy.”
Thomas Hyslop, M.D., is a clinical associate professor of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He provides a comprehensive range of obstetrical and gynecological services including both routine and high-risk pregnancy care, as well as well-woman examinations, evaluation and treatment of gynecologic disorders, and gynecological surgery.
Look for a prenatal vitamin with folic acid (at least 400-800 micrograms) and iron. Consider one that also contains calcium, vitamin D, and DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid). And choose vitamins from reputable brands that meet safety and quality standards.
Prenatal vitamins could cause mild digestive discomfort such as nausea or constipation. Taking vitamins with food or trying different brands can help alleviate side effects. If constipation is the issue, stool softeners or a gentle laxative can bring relief.
OTC medications
It’s essential to consult your healthcare provider about pain relief options during pregnancy, weighing the benefits and risks. While some over-the-counter medications are considered generally safe to use in pregnancy—like acetaminophen used as directed, for example—you should talk to your doctor before taking any medicines to find out what’s safe for you.
Something like Sudafed, for instance, could be safe for some pregnant women, while others with a concern like high blood pressure, need to be more careful.
“Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations during pregnancy,” says Hyslop. “Pregnancy experiences can vary, and what is safe and effective can depend on individual circumstances.”
The FDA warns against using ibuprofen, aspirin, and other types of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after 20 weeks due to risk for to oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) or kidney problems in the baby. Be aware, however, that your healthcare provider may actually recommend low dose Aspirin in pregnancy for you if you have specific risk factors.
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This blog is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute the provision of medical advice or professional services. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
The above article was written by DFWChild editor Amanda Collins Bernier with information provided by UT Southwestern Medical Center as part of their sponsored content.
