Pregnancy week 5
Trimester 1 · Baby is about a sesame seed
The neural tube — which becomes the brain and spine — is forming, and a tiny heart begins to beat.
How your body may feel
- • Nausea may start, at any time of day.
- • You may need to pass urine more often.
- • Strong tiredness is very common.
Self-care this week
- • Book your first antenatal appointment.
- • Eat small, frequent meals to steady nausea.
- • Rest when your body asks for it.
Milestone
Neural tube development — folic acid matters most 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
Ask Nestora About This Week
Your Companion can explain week 5 in your own words — symptoms, nutrition, what to raise at your next visit.
Ask Nestora About This Week