Natural Pregnancy Week 6

Pregnancy Week 6

By this week, a few women will know they are pregnant, and many may be wondering if they should run out for that pregnancy test. It's common for women in early pregnancy to experience some spotting, making it even more unclear whether they are getting their period or they might be pregnant.

Some spotting or light bleeding during the first trimester is usually nothing to be too concerned about. Read First Trimester Bleeding to learn more about what's normal and what's not.

Headaches, frequent urination, and heartburn are all common complaints this week.

Read: Heartburn and Indigestion in Pregnancy

Your Baby's Development

This week, your baby is between .08 and .16 inches from crown to rump (that is, from the top of her head to the round of her buttocks.) and about the size of a sesame seed, living in your uterus which is about the size of an apple.

This week is a very significant one in your baby's early development. The neural groove will close, the eyes and early brain chambers will form, limb and earbuds can be seen, the heart tubes fuse together, and heart contractions will begin.

The lungs, pancreas, liver, and thyroid will form this week. Your baby will develop the first set of 3 sets of kidneys. Ironically, this first set will never function.

The placenta will begin to exchange nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between you and your baby.

The Power of Protein

Protein is extremely important during pregnancy to promote healthy growth in your baby, and to keep your own body nourished.

Dr. Brewer, who developed The Brewer Diet, has done extensive research into the importance of protein during pregnancy and discovered a link between lack of protein and common diseases of pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia, preterm labor, and low birth-weight babies.

Protein also helps to stabilize your blood sugar. Low blood sugar can contribute to nausea and morning sickness. For some women, keeping a steady blood sugar through a well-balanced diet, and plenty of protein helps to relieve their nausea considerably.

Read more about The Brewer Diet.

Author
Recent Posts

Vanessa Pruitt, PLMHP, MS

Vanessa is a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner in Nebraska and holds an MS in Clinical Psychology. She is a certified trauma professional with a special interest in helping people heal from trauma and complex trauma.

Latest posts by Vanessa Pruitt, PLMHP, MS (see all)