Week 5
First TrimesterThe Heart Begins to Form
Your baby's heart is starting to form, and early brain and spinal development are underway. Symptoms may be kicking in.
This week's tip
💡 Ginger tea or small crackers before getting out of bed can take the edge off morning nausea — keep a snack on your nightstand so you can eat before you even sit up.
Baby this week
🌿
About the size of
an apple seed
Length
0.4 cm
Weight
0 g
Development
- The neural tube — which becomes the brain and spinal cord — is forming.
- The heart is beginning to develop, though it hasn't started beating yet.
- Tiny buds that will become arms and legs are appearing.
- The placenta and umbilical cord are forming and beginning to function.
How you might feel
- Nausea (morning sickness) may begin — though it can happen any time of day.
- Breasts may feel sore, heavy, or tingly.
- Fatigue can feel overwhelming — this is normal.
- Frequent urination often begins as blood volume increases.
- Heightened sense of smell is common.
Things to do this week
- Schedule your first prenatal appointment (usually weeks 8–10)
- Take folic acid daily without fail — it is critical for neural tube development
- Eat small, frequent meals if nausea is present
- Rest as much as possible
When to contact your care team
This is general guidance, not medical advice.
- Contact your care team if nausea is so severe you cannot keep any food or liquids down.
Partner tip
Nausea can be exhausting. Stock the kitchen with easy snacks like crackers, ginger tea, and simple foods your partner can tolerate.