Week 7of 40
Trimester 1
from 6 full weeks + 0 days to 6 full weeks + 6 days
The fetus
1 cm
Size of a blueberry
- The embryo is now about 1 cm long and is beginning to take on a more human shape.
- Fingers and toes are starting to form, still with webbing between them.
- The brain is growing rapidly and the head is large relative to the body.
- The liver has begun producing blood cells.
Your body
Physical changes
- The uterus has doubled in size but is still not visible from the outside.
- The mucous membranes may swell and cause a stuffy nose — known as pregnancy rhinitis.
Common symptoms
- Nausea may be at its worst around weeks 7-9.
- Bloating and gas.
- Dizziness, especially with sudden position changes.
- Difficulty concentrating — sometimes called pregnancy brain.
Emotional changes
- Worry about miscarriage is common in the first trimester. Do not hesitate to talk to your midwife.
Good to know
- Drink water steadily throughout the day to avoid dizziness.
- Get up slowly from sitting and lying positions.
- Tell your partner or a close friend if you need support.
Important
- The risk of miscarriage is highest during the first 12 weeks. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding or severe pain.
Food & nutrition
Good to eat
- Cooked food may be easier to tolerate when nauseous.
- Smoothies with fruit and yogurt if solid food feels difficult.
- Potatoes, rice and pasta — mild carbohydrates that are often well tolerated.
Be aware of
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to avoid toxoplasma.
- Avoid pre-sliced bagged salad — eat freshly cut instead.
Avoid
- Raw meat and raw fish — risk of toxoplasma and listeria.
- Alcohol in all forms.
Supplements
- Folic acid daily — still very important.
- Talk to your midwife if you need extra iron or vitamin D.
Exercise
Walking and swimming are excellent choices. Adjust based on how you feel — it is more important to move regularly than to exercise intensely.
Suggested activities
- Walking — preferably in nature
- Swimming — relieving for the body
- Light strength training
Pelvic floor exercises
It is never too early to start pelvic floor exercises. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the uterus.
Sources
The content on this website is based on information from 1177.se and the Swedish Food Agency. It does not replace professional medical advice. Always contact your midwife or doctor with questions about your pregnancy.