During pregnancy week 3, your little miracle is now a microscopic ball made up of hundreds of cells multiplying at the rate of as many as one hundred thousand per minute. This ball is known as the morula and is the size of the head of a pin. It can now be seen with the naked eye.
Since fertilization has occurred, you can expect early signs that you’re pregnant at week 3, along with other body changes due to the hormones your body is producing in preparation for gestation, birth, and breastfeeding.
How Your Body Is Changing at Pregnancy Week 3
Several things are happening in your body during the third week of pregnancy:
Formation of the Amniotic Fluid
Amniotic fluid is slowly forming in your uterus to cushion and protect your baby from from harm, regulate temperatures for growth, and support development of fetus’ body parts. Through the next six days, the amniotic fluid will make its way to the uterus where it will shack up and start producing the pregnancy hormone HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin).
At the end of the week, you should be able to get a positive result even from a home pregnancy test kit. For the best results, take the test in the morning when the HCG levels are highest in the urine.
Early Signs of Pregnancy Manifesting
If you weren’t expecting to get pregnant, you may still be unaware that you are 3 weeks pregnant. However, your body is now awash with hormones and many women are likely to experience a mix of pregnancy symptoms ranging from:
- Nausea and vomiting or morning sickness
- Cramping
- Change in vaginal discharge
- Heightened sense of smell
- Breast sensitivity
Do not be alarmed if you also notice some spotting this week. This is implantation bleeding which may occur as a result of the fertilized egg implanting in the uterus and is often a sign of early pregnancy.
Weight Loss and Weight Gain at Week 3 of Pregnancy
Your baby is growing at a fast rate at this point. But, do not be worried if instead of weight gain you notice a weight loss. This should be expected especially if you are experiencing morning sickness. These changes may take a toll on your body. Set aside some time to rest, especially if you’re also fatigued.
Proper Diet and Nutrition at 3 Weeks Pregnant
The right nutrition is crucial at this early stage of pregnancy to provide the energy required to carry a baby to term and to ensure the fetus is getting proper nutrients to meet development milestones. You can get these pregnancy nutrients from the food you eat as well as supplements.
Crucial nutrients required for you and your baby at pregnancy week 3 include:
- Folic acid: Helps to prevent development of birth defects in the brain and spinal cord by supporting proper formation of the neural tube during these early days. It also reduces the risk of premature birth and low birth weight of the baby. Good sources of folic acid include fortified grains, leafy greens, avocados, citrus fruits, and beans. However, folic acid from foods alone is often insufficient for pregnancy which is why doctors recommend supplements as well.
- Calcium: Calcium supports the growth of your baby’s bones, teeth, muscle formation, and to regulate its heart rhythm. In cases where your diet is not providing enough calcium, your body will draw it from your bones, leaving you weak and exposed to osteoporosis. Foods rich in calcium for pregnancy include dairy products, sesame seeds, almonds, tofu, and dark leafy greens.
- Iron: Protects your pregnant body from anemia which can leave you feeling dizzy, weak, and breathless. Severe anemia can also lead to complications such as low birth weight and premature birth.
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Start Your Antenatal Clinic at Malaica
This is the week to take a pregnancy test if you’ve been trying to get pregnant. If it turns out positive proceed to contact your obstetrician or midwife who will give you advice on the required lifestyle changes as well as guidance on a schedule for future visits.
Our holistic team at Malaica is made up of gynecologists, nutritionists, mental health counselors, and a midwives to provide you with the all-rounded care you need at this time. Schedule an initial antenatal clinic with us to understand your body, it’s needs, and how to achieve an empowering pregnancy going forward.
See Next: What to Expect at Pregnancy Week 4