First trimester · 7 weeks pregnant
Week 7: the brain grows fast
Arms and legs lengthen and the face takes shape.
The head is large compared with the body because the brain is growing so quickly. Hands look like tiny paddles, and the kidneys, liver and lungs are starting to form.
Size and weight
About the size of
a blueberry
Length
1–1.3 cm
Weight
< 1 g
Averages from standard growth charts. Measured crown to rump until week 20 and head to heel afterwards.
How your baby is developing
- The brain grows rapidly, with distinct regions forming.
- Arms and legs lengthen; hands and feet look like small paddles.
- The umbilical cord is forming, and the kidneys, liver, lungs and intestines develop.
- Nostrils, the mouth and the lenses of the eyes appear.
How you may feel
- Nausea and food aversions
- Extra saliva
- Constipation
- Spots or acne
- Darker areolas and visible veins on the breasts
Hormones slow digestion, which is why constipation and heartburn are so common. Fibre, fluids and movement all help.
What's next
Tests and appointments
- If you have not already, register at the prenatal office of your polyclinic; the first visit is recommended by 10 weeks.
What to do this week
- Add fibre (oats, fruit, vegetables, lentils) and keep drinking water to ease constipation.
- A well-fitting soft bra can help with breast tenderness.
- Tell your employer when you feel ready; many countries give extra protection once they know.
Call your doctor or maternity hospital if
- Bleeding that is heavier than light spotting, or bleeding with cramps
- Severe pain on one side of your lower abdomen, or pain with dizziness or fainting
- Vomiting so often that you cannot keep fluids down for 24 hours
- A temperature of 38 °C or higher, or pain when you pass urine
If something feels wrong, trust yourself and call 103 or your maternity hospital. You will never be wasting anyone's time.
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