Your Baby’s First Heartbeat: Week 5 Explained
5 Weeks Pregnant: Your Journey Begins
Feeling the First Signs of Pregnancy
At five weeks, pregnancy symptoms might start to feel more real. Fatigue, sore breasts, nausea, and frequent bathroom trips are common early signs. Your body is adjusting to the hormonal changes that support your growing baby.
When to Share the News
There’s no right or wrong time to announce your pregnancy. Some parents wait until after the first trimester when the risk of miscarriage drops, while others share the news right away. It’s a personal choice—do what feels right for you.
Could You Be Expecting Twins?
For most people, the chances of conceiving twins are about 3%. However, if you’ve undergone fertility treatments, your chances could be much higher—up to 30%! An ultrasound in the first trimester will confirm whether you’re carrying one baby or more.
Your Baby at 5 Weeks
A Tiny but Mighty Embryo
Though still smaller than a sesame seed, your baby is growing rapidly. Right now, they resemble a tiny tadpole with three developing layers that will soon become their organs and tissues.
Brain and Nervous System Development
The neural tube, which will form the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, is starting to take shape. This critical development is why taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid is so important—it helps prevent neural tube defects.
A Beating Heart
By the end of this week, your baby’s heart will begin to beat for the first time! The circulatory system is forming, and soon, a steady rhythm will be detectable during an ultrasound.
Lungs, Digestive System, and More
Your baby’s lungs, intestines, and early urinary system are beginning to take shape. The primitive placenta and umbilical cord are already hard at work, delivering nutrients and oxygen to support your little one’s rapid growth.
What You Might Experience This Week
Frequent Bathroom Trips
Your blood volume is increasing, which means your kidneys are working overtime. The result? More trips to the bathroom. Try staying hydrated, but consider cutting back on fluids in the evening to reduce nighttime wake-ups.
Breast Tenderness
Your breasts may feel swollen, sore, or extra sensitive due to increased hormone levels. This is a good sign— it means your body is getting ready for the months ahead.
Unrelenting Fatigue
The exhaustion at this stage can feel overwhelming. Your body is working hard, and hormone changes—especially rising progesterone—contribute to the tiredness. If possible, listen to your body: rest when you can and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Spotting and Bleeding
Light spotting is relatively common in early pregnancy, affecting about 25% of women. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or cramping, call your doctor immediately to rule out complications.
Morning Sickness Begins
For some women, nausea and vomiting start around week five or six. If you’re struggling, try eating small, frequent meals, sipping ginger tea, or talking to your doctor about safe remedies.
Sudden Food Aversions
One day you love the smell of coffee, the next day it makes you gag. Welcome to pregnancy food aversions! Strong hormonal shifts can make certain foods seem unbearable. Stick to bland, cold foods if you’re struggling, and ask for help with cooking if the smells make you nauseous.
Your baby is growing at lightning speed, and next week will bring even more exciting changes. This is a great time to book your first prenatal visit if you haven’t already. Stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and take care of yourself as your body adjusts to this new journey!