Week 6 Pregnancy: The First Heartbeat and Brain Development

At Week 6 of pregnancy, some of the most critical early milestones are happening as your baby’s heart begins to beat and their brain rapidly develops. Although still tiny, your baby’s major organ systems are starting to take shape, marking an essential period for both their physical and neural growth.

Missed what happened last week? Read about Week 5 of pregnancy to understand how your pregnancy has been developing.

Week 6 body changes

In Week 6, many women experience stronger pregnancy symptoms as their hormone levels rise significantly to support the baby’s growth.

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly an increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, are responsible for many of the symptoms you might be feeling. These hormones help sustain the pregnancy, promote the development of the placenta, and trigger your body’s physical adaptations to pregnancy.

Week 6 pregnancy symptoms

In Week 6, as your body continues to adapt to the rising levels of pregnancy hormones, you may experience a variety of common symptoms that are both physical and emotional:

1. Morning sickness

   • Nausea can intensify around week 6, affecting about 70-80% of pregnant women. Despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of day. Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding triggers like strong smells can help ease this symptom.

2. Breast tenderness

   • Your breasts may feel swollen, sore, or tender due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes as they prepare for breastfeeding. Wearing a supportive bra can alleviate some discomfort.

3. Fatigue

   • Feeling tired is very common as your body works hard to support your baby’s growth. Progesterone has a sedative effect, contributing to exhaustion. Make sure to rest whenever possible and prioritise a healthy sleep routine.

4. Frequent urination

   • As your uterus begins to expand and press on your bladder, and as blood flow increases to your kidneys, you may find yourself needing to use the bathroom more frequently.

5. Mood swings

   • It’s normal to experience mood swings at this stage, as hormonal changes can affect your emotions. You might feel more sensitive or experience rapid changes in mood. It’s important to give yourself grace and remember that these shifts are a natural part of early pregnancy.

Your baby at week 6

By Week 6, your baby is around 3 to 5 millimetres long, similar in size to a sweet pea or a grain of rice. Despite being tiny, significant developments are underway. The heart begins as a simple tube, and by the end of this week, it starts to beat, signalling the beginning of blood circulation to provide oxygen and nutrients to the growing tissues. Though the heart is beating, it might not be detectable by ultrasound until Week 7 or 8 as it continues to form its chambers and valves.

At the same time, rapid brain development is occurring, with the neural tube—the structure that will eventually become the brain and spinal cord—closing. This is a crucial step for neurological development, as the brain is beginning to divide into different sections that will later control sensory and motor functions, as well as cognitive abilities.

Other organs, such as the lungs, liver, and kidneys, are also starting to form, although they won't be functional until later. Meanwhile, the umbilical cord continues to develop, becoming the vital lifeline that will deliver nutrients and oxygen to the baby while removing waste products. These early formations set the stage for the rapid growth and development that will continue in the coming weeks.

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.

Preparing for Week 6 pregnancy

In Week 6 of pregnancy, you can start making preparations to support your health and your baby’s development. Here's what you should focus on:

1. Rest and stay hydrated

   • Since fatigue is common, make sure you get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Drinking water can also help alleviate some symptoms, such as nausea and constipation.

2. Eat small, frequent meals

   • To manage nausea, try eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Avoiding spicy or greasy foods can help, and incorporating bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers or toast might reduce nausea.

3. Take prenatal vitamins

   • Continue taking your prenatal vitamins, especially those containing folic acid, which support your baby’s neural development. If you haven’t started prenatal vitamins yet, now is the time to begin.

4. Limit caffeine and avoid harmful substances

   • Reduce your caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg per day, the equivalent of one 12-ounce cup of coffee. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs, as these can harm your baby’s development.

Curious about what’s next in the upcoming weeks? Read more about the major growth and your baby’s heartbeat development in week 7!

FAQ

Is it normal to have morning sickness all day in Week 6?

Yes, morning sickness can happen at any time of the day, not just in the morning. It is a common symptom for many women in early pregnancy.

How can I manage fatigue in Week 6?

Fatigue is common due to hormonal changes. Get plenty of rest, listen to your body, and establish a healthy sleep routine.

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.