👶Your baby this week
Your baby is now about the size of a button, measuring 10mm from head to bottom. Despite their miniature size, growth is astonishingly fast, your little one is now thousands of times larger than when first conceived.
The head is growing quickly to make space for the rapidly developing brain, which is creating around 100 new brain cells every minute. This growth gives your baby a prominent forehead and a curved, C-shaped posture.
Small dimples are appearing where the ears and nose will form, and the first eyelids are beginning to take shape, gradually covering the eyes. The mouth and tongue are also starting to develop.
Tiny arm and leg buds are stretching and lengthening, now forming cartilage that will later become bones. The ends of the arms are widening and soon they’ll look like the first outlines of little hands.
The kidneys are forming, ready to begin filtering waste in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the umbilical cord is now functioning as your baby’s lifeline, carrying oxygen and nutrients while removing waste.
By the end of this week, a mucus plug will begin sealing the cervix to protect the uterus from bacteria. It’s a clever natural barrier that will stay in place until labour begins.
Even though you cannot yet feel it, your baby is already gently moving inside the womb, testing out those new muscles as they continue to grow and strengthen.
🌸Your body this week
At seven weeks, your body is working hard to support both you and the baby. Blood volume is rising rapidly; it will increase by up to 50% over the course of the pregnancy. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients where they’re needed most.
All this extra work can make you feel thirstier than usual, so try to drink around eight medium glasses of fluid daily. Water, milk, fruit teas or diluted juice are all good options.
Hormonal changes continue to trigger many early pregnancy symptoms: tiredness, nausea, tender breasts and emotional ups and downs are all common. A metallic taste, headaches and bloating may also appear.
Some people notice food cravings or aversions, suddenly disliking certain smells or flavours that were once favourites. This is completely normal and often eases as pregnancy progresses.
The uterus is now about the size of a lemon, though most people won’t look noticeably pregnant yet. If you has been pregnant before, the bump may show slightly earlier as abdominal muscles are already stretched.
As your baby grows, you might experience mild cramping or spotting. These can be normal, but if bleeding is heavy or persistent, it’s best to contact a midwife or GP for reassurance.
While you may not be ready to share the news just yet, many people begin thinking about how and when to tell family, friends or employers.
💛Symptoms you might notice
Every pregnancy is different. These are common around week 7 — speak to your midwife if anything worries you.
Nausea and Morning Sickness
Nausea can still be intense around week seven. Eating small, frequent meals and keeping snacks nearby may help. Ginger tea, lemon water or plain crackers can also soothe a sensitive stomach.
Breast Tenderness and Growth
Hormones are preparing your breasts for feeding, often causing swelling, tingling or sensitivity. The areolas may darken, and tiny bumps (Montgomery’s tubercles) may become more visible as glands that produce natural oils.
Fatigue
As your body adjusts to new hormone levels and begins forming the placenta, you might feel more tired than usual. Rest when possible and try short naps or gentle walks to boost energy.
Frequent Urination
An increase in blood flow to the pelvic area and a growing uterus pressing on the bladder, meaning you may need to use the toilet more often. It’s important to stay hydrated even if trips to the bathroom increase.
Food Cravings and Aversions
It’s common for once-loved foods to suddenly seem unappealing. Follow your appetite, keep meals light, and find healthy alternatives that satisfy cravings without upsetting your stomach.
Heartburn and Indigestion
Pregnancy hormones relax muscles throughout the body, including those that keep stomach acid in place. Avoid spicy or fatty foods, eat slowly, and stay upright after meals to reduce discomfort.
Excess Saliva
Some people notice more saliva than usual in early pregnancy. This usually eases by the end of the first trimester, but chewing sugar-free gum or sipping water can help manage it.
✨Tips for week 7
Schedule your Booking Appointment
If you hasn’t already, contact your GP or local maternity unit to arrange the first midwife appointment between weeks 8 and 12. This is when screening options and care preferences are discussed.
Continue Taking Folic Acid and Vitamin D
Keep taking a daily 400 microgram folic acid supplement and 10 micrograms of vitamin D to support your baby’s bone and nervous system development.
Stay Hydrated
With increased blood flow and fluid demands, you may feel thirstier than usual. Aim for around eight glasses of fluid daily and choose water or milk over sugary drinks.
Rest and Gentle Movement
Even short walks or light stretching can help with fatigue and circulation. Listen to your body and rest whenever needed, growing a baby takes a lot of energy.
Avoid Smoking, Alcohol and Limit Caffeine
If you smoke or drinks alcohol, now is the time to stop. Limit tea, coffee and caffeinated drinks. Healthcare professionals can offer support without judgment.
Seek Support for Emotional Wellbeing
Early pregnancy can bring mixed emotions. If you feels anxious, low or overwhelmed, speak with a midwife, GP, or a trusted person for reassurance and guidance.
Discuss Work and Maternity Rights
There’s no rush to inform your employer yet, legally, this only needs to happen 15 weeks before the due date. However, it can help to read up on maternity rights early through trusted resources like Maternity Action.