Weeks 5-8: Early Pregnancy Reaction Period

During this period, the fetus enters a rapid development phase, all major organs begin to form, and the pregnant woman's early pregnancy reactions also begin to appear.

Fetal Development Milestones

Week 5: Heart Begins to Beat

• Heart tube begins to form and starts beating
• Neural tube closes, brain and spinal cord begin to form
• Embryo is about 2-3 mm long
• Primitive head and tail appear

Week 6: Facial Features Appear

• Head enlarges significantly
• Eyes, nose, and mouth begin to develop
• Limb buds appear (rudiments of arms and legs)
• Liver and kidneys begin to form
• Embryo is about 4-6 mm long

Week 7: Limb Development

• Arms and legs continue to develop
• Hands and feet begin to differentiate
• Brain develops rapidly
• Inner ear begins to form
• Embryo is about 7-10 mm long

Week 8: Organ Systems Basically Formed

• All major organs have formed rudiments
• Fingers and toes begin to appear
• Facial features are more obvious
• Skeleton begins to develop
• Embryo is about 11-14 mm long, now called a fetus

Maternal Changes

Physiological Changes

• Nausea and Vomiting: 50-80% of pregnant women will experience morning sickness
• Breast Changes: More tender, areola color darkens
• Fatigue: Hormonal changes lead to decreased physical strength
• Frequent Urination: Enlarged uterus presses on the bladder
• Appetite Changes: Preference or aversion to certain foods

Hormonal Changes

• HCG Levels: Peak at 8-10 weeks
• Progesterone: Continues to rise, supporting pregnancy maintenance
• Estrogen: Promotes uterine and breast development
• Thyroxine: Metabolism speeds up

Early Pregnancy Reaction Management

Dietary Adjustment

• Small Frequent Meals: 5-6 meals a day, avoid empty stomach
• Light Diet: Avoid greasy and spicy foods
• Dry Food First: Eat a few crackers immediately after waking up in the morning
• Hydration: Drink water frequently in small sips
• Vitamin B6: Can relieve nausea symptoms

Lifestyle Suggestions

• Rest Fully: Ensure 8-10 hours of sleep per day
• Avoid Stimulation: Stay away from strong smells and oil smoke
• Moderate Exercise: Light walking helps digestion
• Loose Clothing: Avoid abdominal pressure

Nutritional Needs

Key Nutrients

• Protein: 70 g per day, supports tissue development
• Carbohydrates: Provide sufficient energy
• Folic Acid: Continue to supplement 400-800 mcg per day
• Iron: Prevent anemia, 27 mg per day
• Calcium: Support skeletal development, 1000 mg per day

Food Choices

• High-quality protein: Lean meat, fish, eggs, soy products
• Complex carbohydrates: Whole grains, potatoes, vegetables
• Rich in folic acid: Green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts
• Rich in iron: Red meat, animal liver, spinach

Medical Checkups

First Prenatal Checkup (Usually around 8 weeks)

• Confirm gestational weeks and due date
• Ultrasound: Confirm fetal heartbeat and number
• Basic physical examination: Blood pressure, weight, blood routine
• Establish pregnancy file
• Conduct necessary screenings

Checkup Items

• Blood routine and blood type
• Urine routine
• Liver and kidney function
• Infectious disease screening
• Thyroid function

Symptoms to Watch Out For

⚠️ Situations requiring timely medical attention:

• Severe vomiting causing inability to eat or drink
• Vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain
• High fever over 38.5℃
• Weight loss of more than 5%
• Blurred vision or severe headache

Emotional Health

Common Emotional Changes

• Anxiety and worry about pregnancy
• Mood swings caused by hormonal changes
• Worry about fetal health
• Changes in body image

Coping Strategies

• Communicate fully with partner and family
• Attend prenatal classes to learn knowledge
• Participate in support groups appropriately
• Maintain a positive attitude
• Seek professional psychological counseling if necessary

Life Taboos

To Avoid

• Smoking and secondhand smoke
• Alcohol
• Excessive caffeine (no more than 200mg per day)
• Raw and undercooked food
• Soft cheese and raw dairy products
• Certain medications (consult a doctor)

Partner Participation

• Accompany prenatal checkups, understand fetal development
• Take care of pregnant woman's daily life
• Help with housework, reduce burden
• Provide emotional support and understanding
• Participate in making pregnancy plans

Next Week Preview

Entering weeks 9-12, the fetus will enter a rapid growth period, the risk of miscarriage will be significantly reduced, and early pregnancy reactions may begin to ease.

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Friendly Reminder: Early pregnancy reactions are normal and most will subside after 12 weeks. If symptoms seriously affect daily life, please seek medical attention in time.