Week 1 Pregnancy: Start Your Journey in Motherhood

As you start your journey to motherhood, the first week marks the beginning of significant bodily changes. Understanding these initial stages is essential as you embark on your journey into becoming a mother.

Changes in your body this week

You might not even realise you are pregnant in your first week! During the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP), your body starts preparing for ovulation, the process where an egg is released and ready to be fertilised by sperm.

Your uterus begins producing more hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone, to support a fertilised egg. It sheds its lining and replaces it with nutrient-rich tissues. You may experience bloating, constipation, breast soreness, or abdominal cramping during this time.

Early signs of pregnancy: What to expect

The first week of pregnancy begins with your menstrual period. Although you are not yet technically pregnant, your body is preparing for ovulation over these initial two weeks. 

During this time, your uterus gets ready to host a fertilised egg, though you may not notice any symptoms yet. The lining of your uterus sheds, along with the unfertilised egg from your last cycle.

Your menstrual cycle triggers the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which both begin to increase. This rise in FSH and LH also causes a spike in oestrogen levels, marking the start of a hormonal journey that will continue in the months ahead. Therefore, in your first week, you might experience menstrual bleeding, cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, mood swings, headaches, and digestive changes.

Your baby at week 1

In the early stages of pregnancy, there is no embryo or baby yet — just waiting for sperm and an eager egg ready to be fertilised. The first two weeks, including your last period and the following week, are when your body prepares for ovulation.

During ovulation, the egg is released from the ovary and travels to the fallopian tube, where it waits for sperm. The strongest sperm will enter the egg, leading to fertilisation and the start of its transformation into your baby.

When to take a pregnancy test?

While most home pregnancy tests claim to be 99 per cent accurate, they do not apply to the first week of pregnancy. These tests detect hCG - human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone found in urine. Typically, it takes 12 to 15 days after ovulation for enough hCG to be present in the urine to produce a positive result. If you suspect you are pregnant but test negative in the first few weeks, you can retest after a week.

Additionally, you can check for pregnancy using a blood test, which detects hCG in the blood. If you need quicker results, a blood test is more effective than a urine test.

For pregnancy tests and screenings, a home pregnancy test is recommended between 4 to 6 weeks and is optional. Similarly, a blood test is also recommended between 4 to 6 weeks and is optional. 

When should you see a doctor to confirm your pregnancy?

Discovering you're pregnant is an exciting moment, but it's essential to know when to seek professional medical care. If you've taken a home pregnancy test and received a positive result, here's guidance on when to consult a doctor:

1. After a positive home test

   • Generally, wait about a week before booking an appointment with a gynaecologist. This allows time for the pregnancy to be visible on an ultrasound scan, typically around 6-7 weeks of gestation.

   • If you have irregular menstrual cycles, consider seeing a doctor sooner to confirm the pregnancy and assess its viability.

2. Immediate medical attention

   • Seek medical care promptly if you experience any unusual symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or extreme nausea, regardless of how far along you think you are.

At Thomson Medical, we understand the importance of timely and comprehensive prenatal care. Our team of obstetricians and gynaecologists at Thomson Specialists and Thomson's Women Clinic are here to support you from the moment you suspect you're pregnant. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and our team is here to address your individual needs and concerns.

Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today to begin your pregnancy journey with compassionate care and support.

Tips for a healthy start

Maintaining a healthy pregnancy involves several key practices: 

• Have a balanced diet: Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy, and take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your doctor to ensure you and your baby receive essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium. 

• Staying hydrated: aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily and limit caffeine and sugary drinks.

• Regular exercise: engage in safe, moderate activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen.

• Adequate rest: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Use pillows to support your body for better comfort.

Curious about what’s next in the upcoming weeks? Read more about how your body gets ready for ovulation and prepares for pregnancy in Week 2!

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Book an appointment with Thomson Medical today.