Pregnancy week 4

Trimester 1 · Baby is about a poppy seed

The embryo settles into the uterine lining and the placenta starts to form.

How your body may feel

  • A missed period may be the first clue.
  • Tender breasts and mild cramping are common.
  • Tiredness may begin early.

Self-care this week

  • Take a home pregnancy test if your period is late.
  • Continue folic acid 400 micrograms daily.
  • Stop alcohol completely.

Milestone

A positive pregnancy test is usually possible now.

Seek care urgently if you notice

  • Heavy bleeding, or bleeding with clots
  • Severe pain on one side of the lower abdomen or shoulder tip pain
  • Fever above 38°C
  • Vomiting so much you cannot keep fluids down for 24 hours
  • Fainting or severe dizziness

Related resources

Related articles

Related FAQs

Related warning signs

  • Heavy bleeding — Soaking a pad in under an hour, or passing large clots
  • Severe headache that won't ease — Especially with blurred vision or sudden swelling
  • Difficulty breathing — Breathlessness at rest or when lying down
  • Chest pain or a racing heart — Pressure, tightness or fluttering that doesn't settle
Read the full warning signs guide

Ask Nestora About This Week

Your Companion can explain week 4 in your own words — symptoms, nutrition, what to raise at your next visit.

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