4-Week Pregnancy

As A Life Health Group, we are here to support and inform you at every step of your pregnancy journey. We have prepared a detailed information page about "4 week pregnancy" for this important period. On this page, you will learn what happens in the fourth week of pregnancy, what changes occur in your body and your baby, and what you should pay attention to.

Pregnancy is calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period. At 4 weeks pregnancy, the fertilized egg (zygote) has implanted into the uterus, and embryo development has begun. This week marks the beginning of a critical period called the embryonic stage.

During this period, the embryo develops rapidly, and the foundations of the major organ systems are established. The embryo transforms from a two-layered disc into a three-layered structure. These layers will later form all the organs and tissues of your baby.

At 4 weeks pregnancy, you may continue to feel some symptoms due to changes in your hormone levels. These symptoms can vary in each woman, and some women may not experience any symptoms at all.

• Missed Period: The most noticeable symptom is a missed period.
• Breast Sensitivity: Fullness, tenderness, and pain in your breasts may increase.
• Fatigue: You may feel tired and weak due to increased progesterone levels.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Symptoms of nausea and vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness, may begin.
• Frequent Urination: You may feel the need to urinate more often as the growing uterus continues to press on your bladder.
• Emotional Changes: Hormonal changes may make you more emotionally sensitive. You may experience mood swings.
• Headache: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume can cause headaches.
• Constipation: Progesterone slows down the digestive system, which may lead to constipation.
• Changes in Smell and Taste: You may become more sensitive to certain smells and tastes, or you may no longer enjoy foods you previously liked.

At 4 weeks pregnancy, your baby is approximately the size of a poppy seed. The embryo develops into a three-layered structure:

• Ectoderm: This layer will form your baby’s nervous system, skin, hair, and nails.
• Mesoderm: This layer will form your baby’s muscles, bones, heart, blood vessels, and kidneys.
• Endoderm: This layer will form your baby’s digestive system, liver, pancreas, and lungs.

During this week, the amniotic sac and placenta continue to develop. The amniotic sac is a fluid-filled sac that surrounds and protects your baby. The placenta is the organ that provides nutrition and oxygen to your baby.

At 4 weeks pregnancy, it is important to pay attention to certain points for your baby’s healthy development and to have a healthy pregnancy yourself.

• Folic Acid Supplement: Folic acid plays a critical role in your baby’s brain and spinal cord development. You should continue taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily.
• Healthy Nutrition: Ensure your baby receives all necessary nutrients by eating a balanced and healthy diet. Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and trans fats.
• Avoid Harmful Habits: Smoking, alcohol, and drug use can negatively affect your baby’s development. Therefore, it is very important to stay away from these harmful habits.
• Medication Use: If you are taking any medication, consult your doctor after learning you are pregnant. Some medications may pose risks to your baby’s development.
• Caffeine Consumption: Excessive caffeine intake may increase the risk of miscarriage. It is recommended not to consume more than 200 mg of caffeine per day.
• Stress Management: Stress can negatively affect your baby’s development. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to cope with stress.
• Rest: Your body is working hard to cope with pregnancy. Take time for yourself and make sure to rest.
• Coping with Nausea and Vomiting: For morning sickness, try eating small and frequent meals. Avoid fatty and spicy foods. Natural remedies such as ginger, mint, and lemon may also help relieve nausea.
• Fluid Intake: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Yes, most pregnancy tests will give a positive result at 4 weeks pregnancy. However, it is still possible to get a negative result. For a more reliable result, it is recommended to retest a few days later or have a blood test.

At 4 weeks pregnancy, the gestational sac and yolk sac (the baby’s first source of nutrition) can be seen on ultrasound. The embryo is still very small, so it may not be clearly visible on the ultrasound.

Yes, having sexual intercourse is generally safe in an uncomplicated pregnancy. However, if you have any concerns, you can consult your doctor.

You should continue taking folic acid supplements. Your doctor may also recommend additional vitamins and minerals.

Following the healthy lifestyle recommendations mentioned above is important for your baby's healthy development and for you to have a healthy pregnancy.

As A Life Health Group, we are here to support you from the planning stage of pregnancy to postnatal care. Our specialist doctors and healthcare staff will guide you through every step of your pregnancy and answer all your questions.

We wish you a healthy pregnancy and a joyful journey into motherhood!