Signs of pregnancy at 4 obstetric weeks. Fourth week of pregnancy signs and sensations. What do we have to do

It was described that I was in no mood to celebrate the New Year, I was so vomiting from everything and from a glass of champagne and a glass of wine for a sip, I couldn’t take it in my hands and my appetite completely disappeared in the 4th week, and now I feel like I’m about to vomit inside out again, if the soul was poisoned . Is this early toxicosis?

Pregnancy is, of course, the most trembling, tender and exciting event in the life of every woman. Having learned the wonderful news, every expectant mother strives to learn as much as possible about how the little man develops, and what changes occur in the emotional plane and the woman’s body at each stage. Naturally, future mothers will want to know how to recognize 4 weeks pregnant and calculate when the baby will be born.

poppy seed

0,36–1 mm. height

0,5 g. weight

What happens in the 4th obstetric week?

On 4 weeks pregnant according to obstetric calculations, the embryo is just beginning its journey to “its home.” He will have to go through many difficult paths until he reaches his place and the bubble in which he will live for eight and a half months begins to form.

The danger of this period is that there is a risk of ectopic pregnancy. If the embryo does not have time to reach the final point and begins to grow in the birth canal, doctors record an ectopic pregnancy. In most cases, there are certain prerequisites for this. Fortunately, this happens quite rarely. Therefore, in general there is no need to worry. It is advisable to calm down as much as possible and joyfully perceive every moment of your pregnancy, if, of course, it has already been established.

Symptoms at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Signs of pregnancy at 4 weeks can be recognized in several ways. The first is the delay of critical days. Depending on the woman's cycle. If there is a delay, at least one day, then you can safely do the test: it will show the result with an accuracy of up to 98 percent.

Gynecologist at 4 weeks pregnant may observe changes in the color and structure of the cervix. Although, it will not give an unambiguous conclusion yet.

It is still very early to do an ultrasound at this stage, since the fetus has not yet reached its goal. An ultrasound will be able to show the result closer to the 8th week.

Fetal development at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Up to 4 weeks pregnant the fruit is a kind of flat multilayered disk. But just from this moment it undergoes certain changes, gradually “turning” into an embryo. Fetal size at 4 weeks gestation in width - no more than 1 mm, in length - about 0.36 mm. At this stage, the placenta and amniotic fluid are born.

Surprisingly, 4 weeks pregnant The head of the future baby is already beginning to form. At the same time, three main layers are distinguished - ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm. They have a direct influence on the formation of the brain, thyroid and pancreas, blood, muscles and skeleton.

Feelings at 4 weeks of pregnancy

As a rule, this is still a very short period of time for a woman to feel dramatic changes in her body. This only happens at high sensitivity. It often happens that a woman may confuse the feeling of pregnancy with premenstrual syndrome.

Pregnancy 4 weeks may be accompanied by nagging pain in the lower abdomen, breast tenderness, mood swings - all this is also signs of pregnancy, in rare cases, toxicosis is possible at this period. However, as a rule, mothers do not even notice any changes. Such a short period of pregnancy is rarely accompanied by any obvious changes in the woman’s body. Sometimes you can notice brown discharge at 4 weeks pregnant, slightly reminiscent of the beginning of menstruation.

Vitamin complexes

The most common medicine in the first weeks of pregnancy is folic acid. It is strongly recommended to start drinking it while planning and preparing for pregnancy and do not stop drinking until the twelfth week. Folic acid has a positive effect on the development of the child, in particular, it helps the development of the nervous system and most organs and tissues.

You can take vitamin complexes designed specifically for pregnant women. They will be useful for both the developing child and the woman herself, strengthening her skeletal system and controlling hemoglobin.

You should refrain from any kind of anesthesia. Even dental treatment should be postponed until the second trimester of pregnancy if possible. Other medications can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. No self-medication!

How long before giving birth?

Doctors calculate the preliminary date of birth based on the obstetric period. In total it is 40 weeks. It is by counting them that the due date is set. Although in general the child is considered full-term and can develop independently outside the woman from the 38th week. As a rule, babies are born from 38 to 42 weeks. It all depends on the characteristics of the woman’s body, emotional and physical factors.

Signs of pregnancy at 4 weeks are manifested primarily by the absence of menstrual flow. In addition, the woman has the following symptoms:

• emotional lability – sudden changes in mood,
• there is engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands,
• high fatigue with usual loads,
• dyspeptic disorders in the form of nausea, vomiting and increased salivation,
• drowsiness and weakness,
• change in taste,
• slight nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back,
• possible frequent urination,
• basal temperature is above 37°C.

Also, when carrying out additional examination methods, pregnancy can be detected based on the high content of human chorionic gonadotropin in the blood, urine (using test strips) and during an ultrasound examination, where the presence of an embryo in the uterine cavity is visible.

What happens at 4 weeks of pregnancy?

Many pregnant women in this period want to know what happens in the 4th week of pregnancy. This period is characterized by the transformation of the fertilized egg into the embryo itself. The embryo at this time looks like a flat disk with three layers.

1. From the outer layer of cellular elements, extraembryonic organs are formed - the yolk sac, chorion and amniotic membrane (amnion). These organs perform protective, nutritional and respiratory functions.
   • The chorion is the outer shell of the embryo, from which the placenta will form. Her education will continue for up to twelve weeks. Through the placenta, the embryo will receive oxygen and the substances necessary for its life. Also, at the point of contact of the embryo with the endometrium of the uterus, a vascular network begins to form.
   • The amniotic membrane (amnion) is formed in the form of a cavity where the embryo will be located. Subsequently, the amniotic membrane turns into a fetal bladder. The amnion produces amniotic fluid, which protects the embryo from shock, drying out and provides optimal conditions for life.
   • The yolk sac is responsible for hematopoietic function until seven to eight weeks of pregnancy.
   • The cells of the outer layer (ectoderm) are transformed into the skin, hair, nervous system, eye lenses and tooth enamel.
2. The cells of the middle layer (mesoderm) are transformed into the bone skeleton, connective and muscle tissue, the circulatory and excretory systems and organs of the reproductive system.

The digestive tract, liver, pancreas and thyroid glands, and organs of the respiratory system will be formed from the cells of the inner layer (endoderm).

At the 4th week of pregnancy, the head of the embryo begins to form; during this period it looks like a droplet. By the end of 4 weeks, the initial stage of intrauterine development of the embryo, called blastogenesis, ends.

Fetus at 4 weeks of gestation

The fetus at 4 weeks of pregnancy continues to grow and develop rapidly. At this stage, it is also called an embryo, into which it turns from a fertilized egg. The embryo at this stage looks like a flat disk with 3 layers, from which organs and systems will subsequently be formed. At the end of the fourth week, a neural plate is formed, from which the spinal cord and brain will develop in the future, the rudiments of glands are present, and the face with the rudiments of the eyes is formed. The tiny embryo at this stage measures between four and five millimeters.

If you are 4 weeks pregnant, the embryonic period begins. From now until 10 weeks, all of your baby's organs will begin to develop and some will even begin to function. As a result, this period is the most vulnerable to developmental damage. At the moment, the child consists of two layers: the primary ectoderm and the hypoblast, from which all organs and parts of the body are formed.

The primitive placenta also consists of two layers during this period. Its cells are connected to the tissues of the uterus, thus the developed placenta provides the fetus with nutrients and oxygen.

An amniotic sac is also formed with amniotic fluid in it, which will protect the fetus and the yolk sac, which produces red blood cells for the baby.

Important: the development of each child is purely individual. Our information is designed to give you an overview of fetal development.

Changes in the expectant mother at 4 weeks of pregnancy

With the help of a pregnancy test, you can finally be sure that you are expecting a baby.

If the test is positive, schedule your first prenatal appointment with your gynecologist. In most cases, the doctor will prescribe it no earlier than the eighth week, or earlier in the case of chronic diseases, symptoms that need to be checked, or if you had problems with your previous pregnancy.

If you are taking any medications, you should now consult your doctor to see if they are safe for your child.

Before pregnancy, you should take a multivitamin containing at least 400 micrograms of folic acid, increasing the dose to 600 micrograms per day once you become pregnant.

The next six weeks are important for the baby's development. The still simplified placenta and umbilical cord, which transfer nutrition and oxygen to the baby, are already functioning.

If you have been trying to get pregnant for a year or longer without success, see your doctor for an examination to identify possible problems.

Pregnancy test, “I took a home pregnancy test and got a negative result, but I already knew for sure that I was pregnant, I felt it. I waited a few days and took another test in the morning. This time, I was right, it turned out to be positive." - Anonymous

Feelings at 4 weeks of pregnancy

There may be no sensations at 4 weeks of pregnancy. But in most cases, the woman’s emotional state suffers due to hormonal changes. There are mood swings, increased tearfulness and touchiness, and causeless irritability. In addition to disturbances in the emotional sphere, a woman feels engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands, there may be nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back, increased odorless mucous discharge, changes in the perception of different types of odors and changes in taste preferences, fluid retention is often noted and swelling. Often at the 4th week of pregnancy, nausea, increased salivation and vomiting occur.

HCG at 4 weeks of pregnancy

HCG continues to be produced in the 4th week of pregnancy even after implantation of the fertilized egg. Human chorionic gonadotropin is secreted by the membrane of the embryo - the chorion and has an effect on the woman’s genital organs, thus directing them to support the pregnancy that is developing. The function of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is high:

• provides support in the development and functioning of the corpus luteum of pregnancy up to seven weeks,
• takes part in the secretion of steroids in the fetus, thus participating in the formation of sex in the fetus,
• has an immunosuppressive effect, thereby preventing the rejection of the embryo, which is foreign to the woman’s immune system.

Human chorionic gonadotropin increases every two to three days in the first weeks, and as pregnancy progresses, its level begins to fall. The highest level of human chorionic gonadotropin is observed in the eighth to tenth week, after which it begins to decline.

HCG at 4 weeks of pregnancy can be determined using a laboratory test method, in which blood is taken for analysis, and a woman can also determine its presence in the urine using test strips.

Progesterone at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Progesterone continues to increase at 4 weeks of pregnancy. It is produced by the corpus luteum of pregnancy before the formation of the placenta, which will subsequently take over the production of progesterone. Progesterone plays a significant role not only in the 4th week of pregnancy, but throughout its entire period. The function of progesterone is as follows:

• ensures the growth of the uterus and prepares it for the enlargement of the embryo,
• prevents contraction of the uterine muscles and thus prevents the threat of miscarriage,
• increases the accumulation of substances in the form of subcutaneous fat, necessary to nourish the embryo and the woman’s body,
• reduces the functioning of the immune system so that the woman’s body does not reject the embryo, which is foreign to it,
• ensures the growth and development of the mammary glands,
• helps prepare the pelvic ligaments for labor,
• takes part in the development of certain tissues in the embryo.

Uterus at 4 weeks of pregnancy

At the 4th week of pregnancy, the uterus swells and softens, especially in the area of ​​the isthmus, and therefore its slight mobility is noted. The mucous membrane of the uterus and cervix is ​​bluish in color, due to increased blood flow. A mucous plug is formed in the area of ​​the cervix, which will perform a protective function, in particular, prevent bacterial infection from penetrating from the outside into the uterine cavity. The size of the uterus does not increase significantly at 4 weeks and does not extend beyond the boundaries of the pelvis.

Endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy continues to undergo some modifications after implantation of the fertilized egg. The number of blood vessels in it increases (due to which it acquires a bluish color) and glandular cells, which will subsequently turn into the placenta, and at this time provide the embryo with oxygen and substances necessary for its nutrition. As the embryo grows and pregnancy progresses, the endometrium gradually thickens. When performing an ultrasound, the thickness of the endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy averages 20 mm.

Breasts at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Breasts at 4 weeks of pregnancy continue to undergo changes. As a result of hormonal changes, her gradual transition to breastfeeding begins. There is symmetrical growth, engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands. There may be slight soreness, as well as darkening of the nipples and areolas.

Belly at 4 weeks pregnant

At the 4th week of pregnancy, the abdomen does not undergo any changes, namely, it does not increase in size, since the embryo is still very tiny and the uterus is located in the pelvic area. Minor nagging pain may occur in the lower abdomen, but it usually goes away after a few days.

Ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy

An ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy is performed transvaginally and confirms an intrauterine pregnancy. It is defined as a small black circle with a diameter of several millimeters, and is called the fetal sac. Also on an ultrasound during this period you can see dilated blood vessels in the uterus, which is normal and is associated with the need for more active nutrition of the developing embryo.

It is not yet possible to see the tissue of the embryo at week 4, but by the end of this week it will be possible to see the yolk sac on ultrasound, which represents a ring of two to three millimeters. And after just seven days on this ring, it will be possible to see a tiny embryo that receives the necessary substances from the yolk sac.

The corpus luteum of pregnancy continues its work intensively:

• increasing in size, it provides nutrients to the embryo until the placenta is formed,
• and also continues the production of the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the maintenance and progression of pregnancy.

Ultrasound at the 4th week of pregnancy is rarely performed; when performed at an early stage, it is also possible to confirm or exclude an ectopic pregnancy or hydatidiform mole in order to react in time and prevent undesirable consequences.

Well-being at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Well-being at the 4th week of pregnancy is characterized by instability of the emotional background - increased irritability, tearfulness; the appearance of digestive tract disorders – nausea, vomiting; minor nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lumbar region. In general, health does not suffer at 4 weeks of pregnancy; many women feel great.

Abdominal pain at 4 weeks pregnant

If your stomach hurts at 4 weeks of pregnancy, there may be several reasons for this symptom. During the 4th week of pregnancy, the abdomen may ache normally, the pain is nagging, is not accompanied by any bloody discharge, its intensity does not increase and passes quickly. Abdominal pain at 4 weeks may also indicate the presence of a pathological process:

• diseases of the urinary organs (pyelonephritis, cystitis), but in such cases the pain is often accompanied by urinary disorder and a rise in temperature,
• intestinal dysfunction in the form of constipation, flatulence,
• the existing pregnancy may be ectopic, therefore, as the embryo grows and the fallopian tube stretches, pain occurs,
• pain may indicate a threatened miscarriage or a missed pregnancy, especially if it intensifies and is accompanied by bleeding,
• Inflammatory processes in the abdominal organs are possible (for example, appendicitis).

Given that there are a large number of reasons that can cause abdominal pain, especially in the 4th week of pregnancy, it is better to consult a doctor to prevent undesirable consequences for the woman and the course of pregnancy.

Why does the stomach feel tight at 4 weeks of pregnancy?

Often the stomach feels tight at 4 weeks of pregnancy due to changes that occur in the female body. Namely, there is a displacement of the pelvic organs, stretching of muscle fibers and ligaments, which contributes to the occurrence of nagging pain in the abdomen.

The stomach can also be pulled:

• after doing any physical exercise,
• if there is a threat of miscarriage,
• with ectopic pregnancy,
• as a result of pathological processes in internal organs.

In pathological conditions that are accompanied by nagging pain in the abdomen, other symptoms are often observed (for example, spotting, fever, urinary disturbance, increased pain, etc.), which requires immediate consultation with a doctor.

Discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Discharge at the 4th week of pregnancy may be thicker than usual, transparent or whitish, odorless and does not cause discomfort in the woman. Light brown discharge is possible, especially at the beginning of the 4th week, when implantation finally occurs; usually such discharge is not disturbing, has no odor and disappears after a few days.

Brown discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Brown discharge at 4 weeks may be normal, especially if it is light in color, not accompanied by an odor, and does not cause discomfort to the woman. Such discharge is associated with hormonal changes in the female body, as well as with the completion of implantation of the embryo in the endometrium of the uterus and disappears after a few days. Dark brown discharge should alert you, especially if it is accompanied by pain in the abdomen and/or lower back, increases in volume, and acquires an unpleasant odor. Such discharge may indicate a frozen or ectopic pregnancy, cervical erosion, threat of miscarriage, or the presence of a bacterial sexually transmitted infection, which requires immediate contact with a specialist.

Bloody discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Bloody discharge during the 4th week of pregnancy requires especially close attention. Bloody discharge may be the result of:

• ectopic pregnancy,
• sexual intercourse
• gynecological examination (slight discharge, usually not dangerous),
• frozen pregnancy (scanty and spotting discharge),
• cervical erosion.

The appearance of spotting in the 4th week of pregnancy is a reason to visit a gynecologist to determine the cause of such discharge and, if necessary, undergo appropriate therapy.

Lower back pain at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The lower back hurts at the 4th week of pregnancy due to various reasons, such as physiological restructuring of the osseous-ligamentous apparatus or due to the presence of some pathological process in the body. Causal factors for lower back pain at 4 weeks may be:

• Normally, due to changes in the osseous-ligamentous apparatus, when the hormone relaxin is produced, which makes the connective tissues loose, resulting in an increase in their extensibility, as well as the mobility of the pelvic bones. Thus, the body prepares for the upcoming birth.
• Excess weight that a woman gradually gains during pregnancy.
• Spinal pathology existing before pregnancy (scoliosis, osteochondrosis).
• Inflammatory processes in the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Typically, kidney disease causes urinary problems and fever.

The threat of miscarriage may be accompanied by lower back pain and bleeding.

Thus, in the case of lumbar pain, the intensity of which does not go away, but increases and other symptoms are additionally noted, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor in order to promptly identify the cause and prevent unwanted complications.

Temperature at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Often the temperature at the 4th week of pregnancy rises to low-grade levels, namely up to 37.3°C. This temperature can occur both in the early stages and throughout pregnancy. In the absence of any other symptoms (for example, headache, rhinitis, etc.), this temperature is considered normal due to:

• changes in metabolism towards its acceleration,
• changes in hormonal levels - increased production of the hormone progesterone, which affects the thermoregulation center in the brain,
• reducing immunity so that the woman’s body does not reject an embryo that is foreign to it.

An increase in temperature in the 4th week of pregnancy to 38° and above may be associated with any disease:

• ARVI or flu,
• inflammatory diseases of internal organs (for example, pneumonia, pyelonephritis).

Self-medication at high temperatures is strictly contraindicated, because this can seriously harm both the woman’s health and the health of the embryo, because This week, the organs and systems established in the third week are intensively developing. Developmental defects of certain organs, mental retardation, etc. may subsequently occur. In addition to such complications, high temperature can provoke termination of pregnancy. Therefore, you should be very careful about your condition, especially in conditions of high temperature, and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Ectopic pregnancy at 4 weeks

An ectopic pregnancy at 4 weeks is characterized by the same symptoms as a uterine pregnancy. Also noted:

• delayed menstruation,
• emotional background disorder,
• changes in the sensitivity of the mammary glands and their enlargement,
• Nausea, increased salivation may occur,
• changes in taste and intolerance to certain odors,
• increased basal temperature, etc.

The cause of ectopic pregnancy is the inability of a fertilized egg to enter the uterine cavity due to obstruction of the fallopian tubes, as a result of which the egg is implanted in the fallopian tube. The cause of disruption of the fallopian tubes may be:

• processes of inflammation in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, both due to nonspecific infections (for example, after an abortion), and specific ones that are transmitted through the genital tract (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, etc.),
• operations on the abdominal organs and pelvic organs, leading to adhesions,
• congenital underdevelopment of the fallopian tubes,
• hormonal disorders in women.

The risk of ectopic pregnancy occurs:

• with increasing age (over 35 years),
• in women with endometriosis and chronic diseases of the genital organs,
• in smokers,
• if you have an intrauterine device,
• with congenital anomalies of the uterus and its tubes,
• tumors of internal organs.

It is almost impossible to determine an ectopic pregnancy on your own. An ectopic pregnancy is extremely dangerous for a woman’s life. Approximately in the fourth to sixth weeks of pregnancy, the villi of the embryo grow into the fallopian tube, the embryo develops intensively and the fallopian tube may rupture, which is accompanied by:

• bleeding into the abdominal cavity (if a large vessel is damaged, this is extremely dangerous due to large blood loss),
• sharp cramping pain in the lower abdomen,
• dizziness,
• pale skin,
• loss of consciousness, etc.

In some situations, it is not the fallopian tube that ruptures, but the fertilized egg. In this case, the expulsion of the fertilized egg occurs not into the uterus, but into the abdominal cavity - tubal abortion. With such an abortion, dizziness, acute abdominal pain, and weakness are also noted, but the symptoms develop more slowly than in the case of a pipe rupture. An imaginary well-being may occur when all the symptoms disappear, and the woman thinks that everything has returned to normal, but the bleeding continues into the abdominal cavity and this is very dangerous. If there is a slight suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy, and also if a woman is at risk for an ectopic pregnancy, it is a reason to consult a doctor and be examined.

Miscarriage at 4 weeks of pregnancy

A miscarriage at 4 weeks of pregnancy most often begins with minor bleeding that gradually intensifies. The color of bloody discharge can range from scarlet to dark red. Often such discharge is accompanied by spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, as well as pain in the lower back, and sometimes the body temperature may rise. Bloody discharge may contain tissue particles.

A miscarriage occurs over a period of time, from several hours to several days. In this case, bleeding may be minor, but last more than several days.

The occurrence of a miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy is often associated with genetic damage to the embryo that is incompatible with life. Also, early miscarriage can occur due to any diseases in the woman, inadequate physical activity, use of medications, alcohol, etc.

If bloody discharge appears, accompanied by pain, weakness and fever, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Bleeding at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Bleeding at 4 weeks of pregnancy should be a serious concern and is a reason to consult a doctor. Brief bleeding, in the form of a few drops, not accompanied by pain in the abdomen and lower back, or an increase in temperature should not be of particular concern; this may occur:

• after sexual intercourse,
• after a gynecological examination.

Heavy bleeding that does not stop, but rather increases, contains tissue particles and is accompanied by a deterioration in the woman’s general condition – weakness, pale skin, pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back – is a dangerous condition and requires immediate medical attention. Bleeding of this nature can occur with spontaneous miscarriage and complicated ectopic pregnancy.

Menstruation at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Menstruation in the 4th week of pregnancy, as a rule, is not observed. But in the early stages of pregnancy - the first weeks and even months, when the placenta is just developing, there may be a slight release of hormones that suppress menstrual function and at the appropriate time, minor bleeding may occur. In addition, discharge similar to menstruation at 4 weeks of pregnancy may be due to:

• ectopic pregnancy,
• frozen pregnancy,
• spontaneous miscarriage,
• cervical erosion,
• after a gynecological examination or sexual intercourse.

The occurrence of discharge reminiscent of menstruation is a reason for a visit to the gynecologist for examination and further tactics in order to prevent undesirable consequences for the health of the woman and the embryo.

Toxicosis at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Toxicosis at 4 weeks of pregnancy is not a rare phenomenon, but not obligatory. The occurrence of early toxicosis is associated with a number of reasons:

• with changes in a woman’s hormonal levels,
• with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract,
• with the entry into the blood of a pregnant woman of metabolic products of the fetus, which cause intoxication in her body,
• and there is also a hereditary predisposition (when the mother of a pregnant woman suffered from toxicosis, then, most likely, her daughter will also experience toxicosis).

Often, early toxicosis is observed until the placenta is formed (usually up to twelve weeks), which will protect the woman’s body from the metabolic products of the embryo.

Most often, early toxicosis is observed during the first pregnancy; in the case of subsequent pregnancies, the symptoms of toxicosis decrease or are absent.

Toxicosis at the 4th week of pregnancy most often manifests itself as nausea, sometimes vomiting, as well as increased salivation, intolerance to certain foods and/or odors.

Mild toxicosis is accompanied by morning sickness that goes away after breakfast or nausea that can last half a day and is sometimes accompanied by vomiting. Severe toxicosis is characterized by nausea throughout the day and night, and is accompanied by repeated vomiting, which requires medical attention to avoid dehydration and further complications of pregnancy.

To alleviate the manifestations of toxicosis - breakfast with solid food, without getting out of bed; split meals throughout the day with high-calorie foods (not fatty); eating chilled food and drinking enough fluids.

Frozen pregnancy at 4 weeks

Frozen pregnancy at 4 weeks occurs for various reasons, namely:

• as a result of genetic disorders in the embryo that are incompatible with life,
• in case of hormonal disorders occurring in a woman’s body as a result of some disease or use of medications,
• the presence of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, etc.),
• acute viral infections (flu, etc.),
• alcohol abuse, smoking,
• prolonged exposure to the sun,
• Rhesus conflict,
• frequent abortions,
• regular physical and nervous stress.

It is difficult to suspect a frozen pregnancy on your own, since signs of pregnancy can often still be observed. But you should be wary:

• the appearance of bloody discharge,
• disappearance of signs of toxicosis,
• severe pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back,
• causeless increase in body temperature.

If such symptoms occur, consultation and examination with a specialist is necessary, who will, first of all, conduct an ultrasound and determine the diagnosis.

Cold at 4 weeks pregnant

A cold during the 4th week of pregnancy can occur in many women, especially in conditions of reduced immunity in the early stages. A cold with no fever or chills is not scary. But when a high temperature appears, above 38°C, chills, pale skin, i.e. symptoms of intoxication, a cold becomes dangerous both for the pregnant woman (complications, for example, pneumonia) and for the embryo (impaired development, death, miscarriage). In order not to expose a pregnant woman’s body to colds, it is necessary to carry out a set of simple preventive measures:

• during the epidemic period of acute viral infections, try not to visit places with large crowds of people,
• if there is a patient with a cold in the environment of a pregnant woman, especially in the acute period, it is advisable to isolate him for several days,
• apply saline solutions into the nasal passages in the form of drops or sprays (Humor, Aqua-Maris, Quix),
• where the pregnant woman is located, frequent ventilation of the room is necessary,
• a wakefulness and sleep schedule must be followed,
• frequent walks in the fresh air,
• rational and balanced diet high in vegetables and fruits, microelements,
• if necessary, use vitamins for pregnant women (Vitrum prenatal, Pregnavit).

If a pregnant woman does develop a cold, especially with an increase in temperature, it is recommended to consult a doctor for appropriate recommendations. You should not self-medicate, as this can negatively affect the development of the embryo, because not all medications can be taken during pregnancy.

Nausea at 4 weeks pregnant

Nausea at 4 weeks of pregnancy can occur in more than half of women. Most often, it occurs in the morning on an empty stomach and disappears after eating, so it is recommended to eat a piece of bread or biscuit without getting out of bed, lie down for about fifteen minutes, and then get up. Sometimes nausea can bother you for half a day, and in severe cases (which is rare) throughout the day and be accompanied by vomiting. To reduce the severity of nausea and eliminate it, it is recommended:

• eat small portions and often,
• It is better to eat food chilled,
• eat more solid foods
• start breakfast in bed,
• food should be high in calories, but not fatty,
• drink enough still water,
• rest and get enough sleep,
• to walk outside.
• These simple measures will help a pregnant woman reduce the severity of nausea and eliminate it.

Termination of pregnancy at 4 weeks

Termination of pregnancy at 4 weeks must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor; dealing with this issue independently is dangerous for the woman’s health. Since only a doctor can assess a woman’s condition, select a method of terminating a pregnancy and monitor the entire process of termination. In the early stages, as a rule, medical termination of pregnancy is performed.

Medical abortion is the safest method of medical termination of pregnancy in the early stages. When performing a medical abortion, the following drugs are used: Mifolian, Mifeprex, Pencrofton, Mefigin, Mifepristone. Such an abortion is carried out in several stages:

• at the initial stage, an examination, ultrasound and the necessary laboratory blood tests are carried out, after which the drug is prescribed and the woman is monitored for one to two hours,
• at the next stage, 36–48 hours after using the drug, prostaglandins are prescribed, after which a miscarriage occurs and this is manifested by bloody discharge.

After a miscarriage, another ultrasound is performed, which confirms the complete absence of the fertilized egg in the uterine cavity and is carried out ten to fourteen days later.

The advantages of medical abortion are:

• minimal or no complications and proceeds like normal menstruation,
• no need to be hospitalized, i.e. you can lead an active lifestyle,
• absence of instrumental intervention in the uterine cavity, which reduces the risk of infection,
• psychologically better tolerated.

Sex at 4 weeks pregnant

Sex at 4 weeks of pregnancy is not a contraindication, and perhaps, on the contrary, it will be very necessary for a woman, since at this stage libido increases. You should remember to maintain intimate hygiene for both partners both before and after sex. Contraindications to having sex at 4 weeks are bacterial genital infections in the partner, as well as the woman’s bleeding, abdominal pain and/or lower back pain.

Alcohol at 4 weeks pregnant

Alcohol in the 4th week of pregnancy is absolutely contraindicated, because... During this period, there is intensive development of all organs and systems. Alcohol has a toxic effect on the body of both the woman and the embryo. And the consequences of drinking alcohol, especially during the period of organ formation, can be disastrous (the birth of a sick child).

Nutrition at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Nutrition at 4 weeks of pregnancy should be complete and balanced. Food should be high-calorie, but not fatty and fried, steamed, boiled and should contain a sufficient amount of micro- and macroelements, fruits and vegetables, fermented milk products (kefir, cottage cheese, milk, yogurt), lean meats and fish.

Antibiotics at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Antibiotics are contraindicated in the 4th week of pregnancy, as they are dangerous for the embryo, especially at this stage, when all organs and systems are intensively developing. Unreasonable use of antibiotics at 4 weeks can cause malformations of one or another organ in the unborn child.

There are certain indications for the use of antibiotics, which are prescribed only by a doctor. Antibiotics can be used under the supervision of a doctor in the following cases: for pyelonephritis, pneumonia and other purulent inflammations of internal organs, sepsis, and bacterial genital infections. For colds and flu, antibiotics are not used, since they act on bacteria, and the flu is caused by viruses, you need to remember this.

There are antibiotics that are approved for use during pregnancy, but week 4 is not the best time to use them.

Flying at 4 weeks pregnant

Flying at 4 weeks of pregnancy may be contraindicated. Because a woman’s body adapts to new changes associated with hormonal changes. Also, toxicosis can interfere with the flight, especially if the toxicosis is severe.

Contraindications to flying early are:

• repeated vomiting,
• bleeding,
• pain in the abdomen and lower back,
• anemia,
• pregnancy, after in vitro fertilization
• exacerbation of chronic diseases in a pregnant woman,
• defects and diseases of the genital organs in a pregnant woman.

4th week of pregnancy - it is better to stay close to home and in a normal environment. The best time for a holiday with flights is the second trimester of pregnancy (from the 14th to the 28th week).

In the fourth week, you can talk about pregnancy as a fait accompli. There are still about eight months of bearing the child ahead. The 4th week of obstetric pregnancy is the 2nd week from the moment of conception. By this time, the embryo has already managed to attach itself to the wall of the uterus. Development occurs very quickly, having a noticeable effect on the body of the expectant mother. Let's find out the answers to all questions related to the fourth week of pregnancy.

Symptoms and signs at 4 weeks pregnant

The likelihood that the first signs of pregnancy will be noticed at 4 weeks is high. During this period, significant changes are observed in the body of the expectant mother. Even in the brain, the so-called pregnancy dominant is formed. Very soon, the main task of the nervous system will be to create favorable conditions for the development of the fetus. And even nervous behavior will become much calmer.

Week 4 is the time when most women’s appetite finally changes and intolerance to specific aromas appears. Sometimes you just have to see a dish that has fallen out of favor for nausea to begin. Morning sickness, in other words, nausea, is also common. The reflex threshold is very high. Even accidentally touching the base of the tongue with a brush while brushing your teeth instantly causes the urge to vomit.

Even the most mundane occasion can cause an overly strong emotional reaction. Any little thing during the four-week period becomes a reason for hysteria or resentment. It often even leads to depression. Doctors note that hormones most affect girls whose character has previously changed during menstruation.

In the fourth week, the body produces the hormone hCG. True, the concentration of hCG in the blood is not high enough for the test to react to it. Laboratory analysis will be more revealing in this regard. It will cost more than a tester, but an hCG test will allow you to determine pregnancy earlier.

Among other common symptoms, it is also necessary to note an increase in breast sensitivity and roughening of the skin of the nipples. The same signs are observed during menstruation, only during pregnancy they are more pronounced. The action of hormones is aimed, among other things, at preparing the mammary glands for lactation. The following symptoms also occur:

• Delayed menstruation (if the cycle does not exceed 28 days);
• Nagging pain in the lower abdomen;
• Increased drowsiness;
• Basal temperature indicators exceed +37°C.

Changes in the body

The cells formed during the division of the zygote undergo a “distribution of roles”: some of them are grouped approximately in the middle, while others are shifted closer to the edges. The blastocyst itself (an early form of the embryo) is already very close to the wall of the uterus and is ready to be implanted into it. To do this, blastocyst cells extend microscopic chorionic villi to the endometrium, expanding the tissue and helping it penetrate deeper into the mucous layer. Having successfully penetrated there, the blastocyst begins to produce hCG. Under the influence of this hormone, menstruation stops.

The fertilized egg gradually transforms into an embryo. At the initial stage of development, it looks like a flat disk that includes three layers. Doctors call them germ layers. In the coming weeks, they will become the basis for the formation of fetal tissues and organs. Let's look at each layer in more detail:

• The inner layer is called endoderm. From it the lungs, pancreas, liver and the entire digestive system will be formed.
• From the mesoderm (middle layer) all bones, muscles, kidneys, as well as the circulatory system (including the heart) will develop.
• The ectoderm is the outer layer. It will serve as a material for the formation of the skin, hair, enamel, lens and the entire nervous system.

Week 4 is the period during which the embryo’s head is formed. True, it still bears little resemblance to a human head. If the embryo is unfolded, its length will be no more than 5 millimeters. In the normal, folded state there are only 2. Even though the sizes are still insignificant, nevertheless, the development of the unborn child proceeds very intensively.

For example, at four weeks, extra-embryonic organs, which are of great importance for the embryo at the initial stage of development, actively develop. These are the chorion, amnion and the so-called yolk sac. The purpose of these organs is to ensure the supply of nutrients, respiration, hormonal support and protection of the unborn fetus. After a few weeks, the chorion will transform into the placenta, and the amnion will form the fetal sac. Male genes have the greatest influence on the creation of these organs.

The task of the placenta will be to prevent harmful elements from reaching the fetus from the pregnant woman. Since at this stage it has not yet been formed, the embryo does not yet have any protection against toxins in the mother’s body. This includes both alcohol and medications. Well, the amniotic sac will create conditions for comfortable development of the fetus, surrounding and protecting the unborn child from physical harm.

Discharge from the genital tract

Light, homogeneous discharge with a sour odor during this period should not be a cause for concern. Bloody or dark brown, accompanied by pain in the lower back, on the contrary, are a reason to consult a doctor. They are not typical for the normal course of pregnancy and, most likely, indicate some kind of infection of the genital organs. After passing a medical examination, the doctor will prescribe a course of treatment.

Periods and bleeding at 4 weeks

Usually, girls who have no idea about their pregnancy associate all changes in their condition with premenstrual syndrome. Just by the end of the fourth week, your period should come... But it doesn’t, there is a delay. It is also a common sign of impregnation. The reason for the absence of menstrual bleeding is the effect of human chorionic gonadotropin. This specific “pregnancy hormone” begins to be produced by the fertilized egg.

In some cases, a girl may notice slight spotting. In medicine, they are called implantation bleeding. Discharge appears during the attachment of the blastocyst to the endometrium. There is no need to worry about implantation bleeding; it is a common occurrence.

Pregnancy test

An amazing fact: according to the obstetric calendar, it is already the fourth week, and the pregnancy test will most likely show one line, that is, a negative result. The reason for this is the insufficient concentration of the hCG hormone in the urine, which does not allow it to affect the sensitive element of the test. There is already much more of it in the blood.

The most highly sensitive and accurate tests can show a positive result even now. It will be signaled by a barely noticeable second stripe. But this is rather an exception. The optimal time to check fertilization using a test is 5 weeks. That is, after a missed period, almost any test will show a positive result, because by that time there will be much more hCG in the body.

Tests and ultrasound for the expectant mother

At 4 weeks after conception, the concentration of hCG in a woman’s blood increases faster than in the urine, therefore, a laboratory test for the presence of this hormone will help determine the presence of a fetus with almost one hundred percent accuracy already at this time. With its help, conclusions are also drawn about deviations during the period of bearing a child, so the analysis is included in the comprehensive screening of the first trimester. An ultrasound can also help determine pregnancy in the fourth week. In most cases, a two-week embryo (a miniature three-layer cell disc) is already detected using ultrasound.

Visit doctor

The sooner you visit an antenatal clinic after learning about your pregnancy, the better. Although you will be registered only closer to the twelfth week, nevertheless, they are now taking a vaginal smear for analysis. In addition, you will be examined by a gynecologist. The uterus is already enlarged, and the doctor will certainly notice this.

You may be prescribed a course of taking vitamins containing folic acid. This substance is of great importance in the early stages of pregnancy, as it reduces the likelihood of developing neural tube defects and other fetal pathologies. Doctors advise starting to take folic acid a few weeks before pregnancy.

Risk of miscarriage

If in the fourth week there is bleeding similar to menstrual bleeding, this most likely indicates a miscarriage. It occurs completely painlessly, so the woman usually does not even know that she was pregnant. She regards the bleeding as normal menstruation. The death of the embryo can be caused by various unfavorable factors - for example, infectious diseases accompanied by fever, alcohol consumption and even physical activity.

Stomach ache

Week 4 may be accompanied by nagging abdominal pain. Their reason is constant changes in the female body caused by the active development of the embryo. The lower abdomen usually feels tight in women whose periods have previously been painful. In this case, there is no need to worry about unpleasant sensations.

The 4th week is considered a critical period of pregnancy, because menstruation should have occurred towards the end (with a 28-day cycle). Therefore, nagging abdominal pain can be caused by increased uterine tone. But sometimes unpleasant and painful sensations in the lower abdomen end badly, leading to fading pregnancy and miscarriage.

Colds

The list of widespread causes of pregnancy loss includes the common cold. During this period, the embryo is not yet surrounded by a placenta that protects it and is very vulnerable. But don’t worry about this, stress and depression affect the fetus even worse than colds.

If there is no high temperature (+38°C and above), you should not take medications. Just try not to make your condition worse. Avoid going to public places and stay at home for the next week. Doctors advise rinsing the nose with a weak saline solution. Special syrups will help get rid of cough. Don’t forget about drinking plenty of fluids – drink tea with honey more often.

If the body temperature rises above 38 degrees in the fourth week, you cannot do without medication. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking the pills. If the elevated temperature lasts for several days, it can have a bad effect on the embryo and lead to miscarriage. It is best to think about the danger of a cold in the early weeks of pregnancy in advance. Even when planning conception, it is advisable to systematically strengthen the immune system.

Bad habits (alcohol, smoking)

Drinking alcohol can also lead to miscarriage. At 4 weeks, the embryo lays the cellular foundation for all future organs. Considering that there is no placenta yet that protects the embryo from the influence of harmful factors, all substances from the mother’s body, including alcohol, can easily reach it.

Drinking alcohol increases the likelihood of developing all kinds of fetal defects; the child may be born underdeveloped or have some kind of deformity. And alcohol abuse before the tenth week can, among other things, harm the placenta, which is still just being formed. The right decision would be to exclude alcoholic beverages from the diet from the very beginning of pregnancy, or even better, several months before the planned conception.

Sex

Sex in the fourth week does not harm the fetus at all. The only exception is that women for whom the threat of miscarriage is urgent should avoid sexual intercourse. Another thing is that symptoms of pregnancy such as abdominal pain, irritability, increased fatigue, discomfort when touching the breasts can simply discourage you from having sex. If there is a desire, there is no need to deny yourself the pleasure. Just try not to put too much pressure on your stomach during sex.

Diet for a pregnant woman

Week 4 is a time of active embryonic development in the mother’s stomach, and the fetus is extremely sensitive to the lack of beneficial microelements and vitamins in the mother’s body. To fill possible gaps, doctors advise taking special vitamins for expectant mothers from the very beginning of pregnancy. Among other substances, they contain folic acid, an element very important for the normal development of the fetus. It is advisable to buy vitamins after consulting with your doctor. If you have not done this yet, forget about fast food. The diet should be healthy and varied. Minimize the consumption of sweet water, confectionery, fatty foods, large amounts of spices, canned food, semi-finished products and other products containing food additives, dyes, preservatives. Food must undergo good temperature treatment. Therefore, sushi and steaks are also taboo. Don’t try to try diets on yourself, it will only harm your unborn child.

Don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids - at week 4 you need to drink at least one and a half liters of clean water a day. Also consume foods that help improve intestinal function - beets, raisins, fermented milk products. They will help avoid constipation, which regularly plagues pregnant women. The basis of a pregnant woman’s diet, starting from the first weeks, should be cereals, fruits, vegetables, fish, lean meat, and dairy products.

Photo of the fetus at the fourth week

Although the calendar of routine examinations does not include ultrasound at such early stages, pregnancy at this stage can also be determined using ultrasound. If you are at 4 weeks, the ultrasound examination will most likely have to be done privately. In the next photo you can easily notice a small dark spot. This is the so-called fetal sac, the diameter of which does not yet exceed two to three millimeters.

What happens at 4 weeks of pregnancy - video

A few more days will pass, and the first month of pregnancy will end. Now the most important thing for you is to learn to live in harmony with your body, adhere to the correct daily routine, consume healthy and varied food, monitor your health and not expose yourself to all sorts of risks. Try to always be in a good mood. Finally, we present to your attention a short video from which you will learn valuable and useful information.