At 6 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly, but still very small, about the size of a sweet pea or lentil, measuring around 6mm (0.25 inches) from crown to rump.
Even at this early stage, your baby is undergoing major developments, particularly in the brain, spinal cord, and heart.
Your baby’s neural tube is forming, which will later develop into the brain and spinal cord.
The heart is starting to beat at approximately 100 to 160 beats per minute, which is almost twice as fast as an adult’s heart rate.
While you might not feel movement yet, your baby’s limb buds are starting to form, which will eventually become arms and legs.
Common Symptoms at 6 Weeks Pregnant
Many women begin to notice significant pregnancy symptoms at 6 weeks, as hormones such as hCG, estrogen, and progesterone increase to support the pregnancy.
Here are some of the most common symptoms you might experience:
- Morning Sickness: Although it’s called morning sickness, nausea can strike at any time of the day and is common in early pregnancy.
- Fatigue: Hormonal changes and increased blood flow can make you feel more tired than usual.
- Breast Tenderness: Your breasts may feel sore or more sensitive due to hormonal changes.
- Frequent Urination: You may find yourself needing to urinate more often as your body adjusts to the pregnancy.
- Food Aversions and Cravings: Changes in taste and smell may cause you to develop strong aversions or cravings for certain foods.
- Mood Swings: The fluctuation in hormone levels can lead to mood changes, and you may feel more emotional or irritable.
Is It Too Early for an Ultrasound?
Most healthcare providers recommend waiting until 8 weeks, the baby’s development is too small to see clearly at 6 weeks.
At this stage, an ultrasound may show the yolk sac and possibly detect the baby’s heartbeat, though it may not be visible depending on the baby’s position.
What to do next?
As you approach 8 weeks pregnant, your baby will have grown significantly, and ultrasound scans will provide a clearer picture of their development.
At Ultrascan, we offer comprehensive early pregnancy scans between 8 and 14 weeks to check your baby’s size, heartbeat, and estimated due date with remarkable accuracy.
Every pregnancy is unique, so it’s important to consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms.
Our expert sonographers use the latest technology to ensure the best care and peace of mind for you and your baby.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an early pregnancy scan, contact Ultrascan today.
We are here to support you through every stage of your pregnancy journey, ensuring you and your baby receive the best possible care.