How to Survive the Third Week of Pregnancy

The third week of pregnancy is when your body is undergoing massive changes but you may not even realize you are pregnant. Early signs and symptoms may appear as your baby is just starting its amazing journey towards being born. Here's what's going on in week 3 of pregnancy.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Outward physical changes. You may notice a little spotting in week 3 due to implantation of the fertilized egg into the lining of the uterus. Some women notice a slight cramping on one side, but most women won't even be able to distinguish any real changes for a few more weeks.

2. Inward physical changes. Your uterus is thick with blood and tissue, making it a perfect nesting place for a newly fertilized egg. Amniotic fluid is starting to gather together and it will soon become the amniotic sac.

3. Emotional changes. If this is a planned pregnancy, you are likely experiencing a mix of emotions, from concern about whether this time you'll conceive, to excitement about the possibilities.

4. Baby changes. At week 3, the baby is not much more than a cluster of cells no bigger than the letter "o" and rapidly growing and arranging itself. Remember that you've contributed 23 chromosomes and your partner has contributed 23 chromosomes.

Tips & Warnings

• Take care of yourself by eating healthy and taking a multivitamin as recommended by your doctor.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking and drugs when pregnant.