Medically reviewed by Dr Tiffany Pham, a board-certified obstetrician and gynaecologist and medical advisor for Flo Health, based in Houston, Texas.
At seven weeks pregnant, you might not have a visible baby bump just yet, but you’ll start experiencing various pregnancy symptoms and the early stages of that coveted pregnancy glow. While your belly is still small, you may notice your skin appearing clearer and your hair looking shinier than ever—think of it as a natural upgrade to that expensive Moroccan hair oil you once splurged on. This radiant transformation is thanks to the extra oestrogen your body is producing.
Here’s what to expect from your body at 7 weeks pregnant, including common symptoms, tips on how to take care of yourself, and details on your baby’s development.
What's 7 weeks pregnant in months?
At 7 weeks, you’re in the second month of your pregnancy. Just 7 more months to go!
How big is my baby at 7 weeks?
"Your baby is approximately 0.37 inches (9.5-10 mm) on average," says Dr Tiffany Pham, obstetrician and gynaecologist. "This is about the size of a blueberry or grape."
Baby development at 7 weeks pregnant
First movements
At 7 weeks, your tiny baby is starting to make its first movements. These early movements are too subtle for you to feel, but an ultrasound would reveal them, showcasing your baby’s initial physical activity.
Growth and appearance
The head is much larger in proportion to the rest of the body, giving the baby a tadpole-like appearance as the brain grows rapidly.
Facial features
Your baby's face is becoming more defined this week. The mouth, nostrils, ears, and eyes are developing. "The mouth, tongue, and tooth buds will also develop this week," Dr Tiffany adds. This is the beginning of your baby’s facial features taking shape.
Brain and spinal cord
"The brain and spinal cord are both rapidly developing at this time," explains Dr Tiffany. The brain is expanding quickly, while the spinal cord is elongating and becoming more defined. This rapid growth is critical for the development of your baby’s nervous system.
Limb development
The limb buds that formed earlier are continuing to grow. Cartilage is starting to develop, which will eventually turn into the bones of the arms and legs. For now, these limbs resemble paddles with webbed fingers and toes, which will become more defined as development continues.
Kidney function
The kidneys are now fully formed and will soon begin their function. In a few weeks, your baby will start producing urine, which will be excreted into the amniotic fluid.
Heartbeat
Most remarkably, your baby now has its own rhythmic heartbeat! This vital sign of health can often be detected with an ultrasound, marking a significant milestone in your baby's development.
Your body at 7 weeks pregnant
Breast tenderness and changes
Despite appearing larger than ever (some women experience a full cup size increase by seven weeks pregnant), your breasts might not look their best just yet. If you're noticing a lot of blue veins, your hormones are to blame. These veins are crucial as they will help transport nutrients and fluids to your baby once you start breastfeeding.
You might also see that the areola (the dark area around the nipple) has darkened and enlarged, with small, goose-bump-like spots appearing. These are sweat glands that provide essential lubrication for breastfeeding.
For now, invest in a good maternity bra to help support and minimise sagging. It’s also a great time to start using stretch mark cream to keep your skin moisturised as it stretches.
Skin changes
Now that you're pregnant, you might begin to see your skin is more oily or dry than usual. Acne and blotchiness are completely normal. To help with your new-found sensitive skin, it's worth researching the best skincare products to use during pregnancy.
Increased fatigue
You may be feeling more tired than usual. This is due to the increased levels of progesterone in your body, which can make you feel more fatigued. Your body is working hard to support the early stages of pregnancy, so it's essential to get plenty of rest and listen to your body's needs. One way to keep your energy up is tokeep snacking throughout the day – mini meals will keep your blood sugar up.
Frequent urination
As your uterus grows, it starts to press on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom. This can be particularly noticeable at night, disrupting your sleep. Staying hydrated is important, but you might need to manage your fluid intake to balance your comfort and hydration.
Digestive issues
Hormonal changes can also affect your digestive system, leading to symptoms like constipation or bloating. Eating a fibre-rich diet and staying hydrated can help keep things moving smoothly.
These changes are all part of the process as your body adapts to support your growing baby. Remember to take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Your bump at 7 weeks pregnant
Your pregnancy bump won’t be showing yet, because your womb still hasn’t risen (it won’t do so until the end of the first trimester), but that doesn’t mean you’re not feeling the full effects of being pregnant. From nausea to sore breasts, your body is getting ready to grow your little one! Scroll down for more on pregnancy symptoms.
7 weeks pregnant symptoms
According to Milli Hill, founder of The Positive Birth Movement and mum of three, the not-so-nice symptoms will now be setting in.
"As you get further into your first trimester, you may find you begin to experience a range of new feelings and symptoms, from the less glamorous - such as bloating, constipation, and indigestion - to the more mysterious - such as cravings, a heightened sense of smell and a new tendency to sob during cheesy TV dramas," says Milli.
Excessive saliva
Feel like you’re dribbling? Just when you thought the morning sickness was bad enough, pair it with excessive saliva and you’re in for a treat. This is another one that will disappear at the end of your first trimester, but for now, try chewing sugarless gum.
Food cravings
If you find you’ve narrowed down your menu of meals thanks to those pregnancy food aversions, try not to worry. Eating the same healthy meal every day will still give your growing babe all the nutrients they need. What’s more, if you find your pregnancy cravings are driving you mad, give in to them once in a while.
Heartburn
Another totally normal, but totally unpleasant side effect. Avoid spicy or fatty foods and caffeinated drinks as these will make it worse, also try drinking either before or after you eat.
Gaining a few pounds
You might not look like you’re carrying a baby, but you might have gained a few pounds already. This is totally normal – most women will gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy.
Cramping
This is normal during the first trimester, but if it occurs with bleeding or shoulder or neck pain, or you have any unusual discharge, contact your GP.
Heightened sense of smell
Increased sensitivity to odours is common. This change is due to hormonal fluctuations and can make certain smells overwhelming.
Emotional changes
Pregnancy mood swings or increased emotional reactions, such as crying during sentimental moments, are due to hormonal shifts.
Looking after you at 7 weeks pregnant
Are you bleeding?
One thing you must look out for is bleeding, whether this is in the form of light dotting or spotting, pink discharge or lots of blood. Bleeding in the first trimester affects up to 25% of women in the first trimester and doesn’t always indicate a miscarriage.
If you do notice bleeding, you must see your doctor right away. Your GP or midwife will be able to examine you both vaginally and probably via an ultrasound. In most cases, the bleeding goes away and the doctor is unable to explain it unless it’s caused by infection.
Prioritise relaxing
"Now is the time to rest," says Milli. "Listen to your body. It's doing something completely amazing. And listen to your mind. It's probably working overtime, too - there's a lot to take in. Try to really mother yourself with lots of nutritious meals, early nights, and plenty of whatever makes you feel calm and nurtured. Pay attention to your emotions and your mental health, too, and seek extra support if you need to."
You’re going to be feeling fatigued, bloated and sick so this is the time to be selfish. Let your friends, family, and your partner be aware that you need some support.
Think about exercise
There is a lot of scaremongering around exercising while pregnant, but keeping fit and active has been shown to help make your whole pregnancy and labour itself much easier. Chat with your midwife or GP before you get started. It's also worth investigating specific pre-natal fitness classes such as pregnancy yoga.
Limit caffeine
"If you have not already done so, try to limit your caffeine intake to 200mg or less per day, which is equivalent to a 12 oz cup of coffee," recommends Dr Tiffany. This is because high levels of caffeine have been linked to pregnancy complications like low birth weight.
Keep hydrated
On the topic of beverages, you should ensure that you are getting adequate hydration. "The recommended daily intake of water or fluids is about 8-12 cups per day (64-96 oz)," says Dr Tiffany. "This may increase your urge to urinate, if you find it bothersome to have to frequently pee in the middle of the night, try to avoid consuming excess fluids 1-2 hours before bedtime."
Get your mouth checked
Many people don't realise that the health of your mouth is important to keep checking while you’re pregnant. You may experience bleeding gums, mainly down to those pesky hormones. Go to the dentist so your oral hygiene and routine can be looked at.
Boost your folic acid levels
If you haven't been taking it already, you should start taking folic acid now as it can help prevent defects in your baby's development. You can take it through supplements or naturally through foods high in folic acid such as nuts and breakfast cereal high in folic acid.
Stock up on vitamins
"Ensure that you are getting enough of these vitamins and minerals in your diet or through supplements - vitamin C, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and choline," says Dr Tiffany. "The recommended daily doses of these vitamins and minerals are as follows:"
Vitamin C: 85 mg
Calcium: 1000 mg
Vitamin D: 600-800 IU
Iron: 27 mg
Choline: 450 mg
Up your fibre intake
"If you are struggling with more constipation or bloating, try increasing the amount of fibre-rich foods in your diet such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, chia seeds, lentils or chickpeas," suggests Dr Tiffany.
About the experts
Dr Tiffany Pham is a board-certified obstetrician and gynaecologist and medical advisor for Flo Health, based in Houston, Texas. Pham is passionate about helping women get access to necessary health services and medically-accurate health information and better understand their bodies.
Milli Hill is a freelance writer and the founder of the Positive Birth Movement. The mum of three writes tips and advice on how to have happier labour experiences.
About the author
Stephanie Spencer is the Deputy Digital Editor at Mother&Baby and auntie to four aged 8 to 6 months old. With a particular interest in health, she loves discovering products that make parent’s lives easier.