5 Weeks Pregnant: What To Expect & How Your Baby Is Growing

Congratulations to-be-mommies! You have entered the second month of pregnancy, finally! So, how do you feel about it? Experiencing changes in your body? You may not spot many physical differences as of now but believe us, a lot is going on behind the scenes! Being 5 weeks pregnant may feel like an accomplishment although still there is a long way to go. Curious to know about your growing baby inside, the symptoms and ways to manage the current condition smoothly?

Well mommies, grab your favorite snack and read carefully. This guide will take you through almost everything related to a 5-week pregnancy. Let’s begin our journey!

Key Take-Aways at 5 Weeks Pregnant

At 5 weeks of pregnancy (or 3 weeks after conception), the pregnancy hormone— HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) surges. This triggers a cascade of events:

• The ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce more estrogen and progesterone.
• The menstrual cycle ceases, and the placenta begins to grow.
• The embryo undergoes rapid development, forming three distinct layers:
  • Ectoderm (outer layer): Will give rise to skin, nervous systems, eyes, and inner ears.
  • Mesoderm (middle layer): Will form the heart, circulatory system, bones, ligaments, kidneys, and reproductive system.
  • Endoderm (inner layer): Will develop into lungs and intestines.

When a woman is 5 weeks pregnant, she is at a crucial stage. It sets the foundation for her baby's future growth and development.

Baby at Week 5

Mommies, you’re in week 5 of pregnancy and your baby is officially an embryo now. Your baby has burrowed into the wall of your uterus, and all the baby’s vital organs are almost in place. This means their body is beginning to develop essential structures, such as the neural tube, which will later become the brain and spinal cord. Other major organs, including the heart and kidneys, are also starting to take shape.

Your baby’s cells are rapidly multiplying, and their tiny heart may even begin to beat this week, though it may not yet be detectable via ultrasound. The placenta and umbilical cord are also forming to provide necessary nutrients and oxygen.

How Big Is The Baby At 5 Weeks?

At week 5, your baby is about the size of a sesame seed—roughly 2-3 mm long. While still very tiny, this is a crucial time of development as major body systems begin forming. Currently, your baby's length is measured from the crown of the head to the base of the spine, also known as the Crown-Rump Length (CRL). This measurement method is used until approximately 20 weeks of gestation. After 20 weeks, the measurement method changes to Crown-Heel Length (CHL), which measures from the crown of the head to the heel of the foot.

5 Weeks Pregnant? Going For An Ultrasound?

If your doctor has advised an ultrasound at week 5, don’t expect to see much just yet. The gestational sac and yolk sac should be visible, which confirms pregnancy. However, the embryo itself is still too small to detect.

A fetal heartbeat might be seen as a flicker on the screen, but in many cases, it’s still too early. If your doctor does not detect a heartbeat at this stage, don’t worry—many women need to wait another week or two before it becomes visible.

Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 5

With the hormone levels rising, a 5 weeks pregnant mom-to-be experiences noticeable symptoms. Let’s discuss them briefly.

1) Morning Sickness

Nausea and vomiting are common during pregnancy. These may begin around this time, often triggered by certain smells or foods. Though they are harmless, many first-time moms may find it difficult to adjust or adapt to them. Not all to-be-moms get this feeling; so if you’re the one, talk to your doctor about the ways to overcome it.

2) Fatigue

Studies reveal that around 48.7% of expectant moms experience fatigue during this sweet time. You might not know entirely about everything that is happening but your body is working hard to support the growing embryo. It could result in real-time exhaustion and exertion. So, whenever you get time, have a good rest.

3) Breast Tenderness

As hormone levels surge, your breasts may feel sensitive and larger, requiring a bigger bra size as early as the first trimester. Blood flow increases and may cause the veins in your breasts to become more noticeable. Additionally, the skin around your nipples may darken; again thanks to hormonal fluctuations. 

Some pregnant moms may also notice changes in the shape, size, or sensitivity of their nipples.

4) Mood Swings

The rapid shift in hormone levels can trigger a whirlwind of emotions, leaving you feeling anxious, excited and weepy altogether. These emotional fluctuations can be intense and unpredictable, changing within minutes. If you’re experiencing such mixed feelings, reach out to a trusted friend or your partner to feel at ease.

5) Frequent Urination

As your pregnancy progresses, your uterus begins to enlarge to accommodate the growing embryo. This expansion can put gentle pressure on your bladder, resulting in an urgent need to pee.

6) Mild Cramping and Spotting

Light cramping or spotting can occur as the embryo implants into the uterine lining. However, if you experience heavy bleeding or severe pain, consult your doctor immediately.

7) Food Aversions and Cravings

Hormones may make you suddenly dislike foods you previously loved or develop cravings for unusual combinations.

Your Pregnant Belly at 5 Weeks

At 5 weeks, your belly may not show much change externally, but inside, a lot is happening. Your uterus is beginning to expand, and you might feel mild bloating. Some women experience early weight fluctuations due to hormonal changes, but significant weight gain isn’t expected yet.

If you haven’t started already, now is a good time to begin taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid, which is essential for preventing neural tube defects.

Tips for 5-Week Pregnant Moms

• Start Prenatal Care: If you haven’t scheduled your first prenatal appointment, now is the time to do so.
• Eat Nutritious Foods: Focus on a balanced diet with lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help support increased blood volume and prevent dehydration.
• Manage Stress: Try relaxation techniques such as prenatal yoga, meditation, or gentle walks.
• Avoid Harmful Substances: Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and excessive caffeine.
• Listen to Your Body: If you’re feeling extra tired, permit yourself to rest.

Final Thoughts

As you reach the milestone of being ‘5 weeks pregnant’, your tiny embryo is growing at an incredible rate, transforming from a cluster of cells to a miniature marvel. Your body is also undergoing remarkable changes, from the surge of hormones to the expansion of your uterus. Amidst these physical transformations, remember that you're not just nurturing a baby – you're nurturing a life inside you. Cherish these early weeks, and be ready for the incredible journey that awaits ahead. Because before you know it, you'll be holding a little miracle in your arms, and wondering how these 40 weeks flew by so fast!