What’s your baby up to?
Your baby is now referred to as an embryo, as this week marks the beginning of the embryonic stage. Â At just about the size of a poppy seed, your baby grows and develops within the lining of your womb.
The inner cells, which are made up of 3 layers, grow to form the different parts and organs of your baby’s body. The inner layer or the endoderm, becomes the breathing and digestive systems. The middle layer or mesoderm becomes the heart, blood vessels, muscles bones, and reproductive system. The outer layer or ectoderm becomes the brain and nervous system,eyes, hair and skin.
Wondering about your baby’s protection and nourishment? Well that’s exactly what the outer cells are for. These cells develop two membranes: amnion and chorion. The amnion forms the amnionic sac which is filled with amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects your little one for the next 9 months. The chorion which surrounds the amnion grows to form the placenta.
The placental cells channel out like finger-like projections and burrow into the lining of the uterus to create a route for blood supply to the placenta, which will then supply nutrients and oxygen to your baby.
At this time, the placenta is not yet fully mature; but the yolk sac is already present and it takes up the function of producing your baby’s red blood cells and providing nourishment until the placenta takes over in a few weeks.
See how perfectly everything is falling into place?
How are you doing?
You may still be oblivious to the fact that you are pregnant; or you already have the symptoms of pregnancy. These symptom usually mimic period symptoms: bloating, cramping, light bleeding or spotting, and soreness of the breasts. It’s all due to a surge in progesterone levels in your body.
A home pregnancy test taken by the end of this week is bound to give a positive result.
What should you do this week?
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, consult your doctor who will keep you on the right track for a healthy pregnancy.
Take your prenatal vitamins which should contain at least 400mcg Folic acid and 10mcg Vitamin D. Folic acid is vital in the first trimester because it reduces the risk of a neural tube defect known as spina bifida. Vitamin D is highly recommended in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Get your baby off to a good start by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle is necessary for pregnancy to thrive, and it’s even better to start once you begin considering getting pregnant. Quit smoking if you are a smoker, and avoid second-hand smoke which you can get by being around someone who is smoking. Avoid alcohol as well, and be sure to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases.
Eat healthy and nourishing foods. What you eat gets to your baby, so ensure you are eating the healthy and wholesome foods.
Finally, stay informed, healthy and inspired, by reading  Maternity Nest.  Connect with other moms-to-be for emotional support, by joining your Due Date Club in the The Nest.
