6 Weeks Pregnant: What to Do — Complete Guide
At six weeks pregnant, your baby is growing at an extraordinary rate. The embryo is now approximately the size of a lentil, and a tiny heartbeat may be detectable on an early scan. This can be an emotional milestone for many parents, even though it is still early days.
What is happening with your baby
During week six, your baby's heart is beginning to beat, pumping blood around the tiny body. The neural tube is closing, and the brain is developing rapidly. Small buds that will become arms and legs are forming. Facial features are also starting to take shape, with dark spots where the eyes will be and openings where the mouth and nose will form.
What to do this week
Keep taking folic acid
Your daily 400 micrograms of folic acid remains vital as the neural tube completes its development. This supplement is especially important through the first twelve weeks of pregnancy.
Prepare for your booking appointment
Your booking appointment with the midwife typically happens between weeks eight and ten. Start gathering information such as your medical history, family medical history, and details of any medications you take. Write down any questions you have so you do not forget them.
Consider an early scan
Some women choose to have a private early pregnancy scan at six weeks, particularly if they have experienced miscarriage before or have had fertility treatment. On the NHS, early scans are usually only offered if there is a medical reason, such as pain or bleeding. If you are considering a private scan, check reviews and ensure the clinic is reputable.
Manage morning sickness
Nausea often intensifies around week six. Try these strategies:
- Eat small amounts frequently rather than three large meals
- Try bland, dry foods like crackers or toast before getting out of bed
- Sip water throughout the day
- Avoid strong smells and spicy foods
- Consider ginger in tea, biscuits, or supplements
If nausea is severe and you cannot keep food or drink down, contact your GP. You may have hyperemesis gravidarum, which can require medical treatment.
Common symptoms at six weeks
Fatigue
Your body is producing extra progesterone, which can make you feel exhausted. Rest as much as possible and do not push yourself. Growing a baby is demanding work.
Breast changes
Your breasts may feel heavier, fuller, and tender to the touch. The areolas may darken, and you might notice visible veins. Invest in a comfortable, supportive bra.
Mood swings
Hormone fluctuations can cause emotional ups and downs. You might feel elated one moment and tearful the next. This is completely normal and usually settles as your body adjusts.
Bloating and constipation
Progesterone relaxes muscles throughout your body, including your digestive tract. This can lead to bloating and constipation. Eating fibre-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and gentle exercise can help.
What to avoid
- Alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs
- Raw or undercooked meats and fish
- Unpasteurised dairy products
- High-mercury fish
- Cat litter, due to toxoplasmosis risk
- Hot tubs, saunas, and very hot baths
Emotional wellbeing
Six weeks is often when pregnancy feels more real. You may be thinking about when to share the news. Some couples wait until after the first scan at around twelve weeks, while others tell close family earlier. There is no right or wrong answer, so do what feels best for you.
When to seek medical help
Contact your GP, midwife, or NHS 111 immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, shoulder tip pain, or dizziness. These can be signs of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, both of which require urgent attention.
Summary
Week six is a time of rapid development for your baby and adjusting to physical changes for you. Keep up your supplements, manage your symptoms gently, and prepare for your upcoming midwife appointment.