5 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Development & Tips

5 weeks pregnant - congratulations! Here's everything you need to know about what's happening to your body, how your baby is developing, and what to do this week.

Your Baby's Development
Your Body This Week
Symptoms
What to Do This Week
Tips
FAQ

Your Baby's Development at 5 Weeks

**Key milestone: Positive pregnancy test**

The neural tube forms (will become brain and spinal cord). Your baby is now approximately The embryo is the size of a sesame seed.

At this stage, your baby is growing rapidly. Every week brings significant changes as organs form, limbs develop, and the tiny body takes shape.

Your Body at 5 Weeks

Your body is going through enormous changes to support your growing baby. Hormone levels are surging, which affects almost every organ in your body.

Key body change: Positive pregnancy test

Symptoms at 5 Weeks

Common symptoms at 5 weeks include:

Fatigue
nausea starting
breast tenderness
frequent urination

Remember: every pregnancy is different. Some women have many symptoms, others have none. Both are normal.

What to Do This Week

Take a pregnancy test if you haven't already. Start taking folic acid (400mcg daily). Book an appointment with your GP or midwife. Begin avoiding foods that are unsafe in pregnancy.

Tips for This Week

1. Rest as much as you need - your body is working hard 2. Eat small, frequent meals if you have nausea 3. Stay hydrated - aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day 4. Take your folic acid supplement daily 5. Be kind to yourself - growing a baby is exhausting work

Frequently Asked Questions

### Is it normal to have no symptoms at 5 weeks?

Yes. Some women experience very few symptoms throughout the first trimester. While symptoms like nausea and fatigue are common, their absence doesn't necessarily mean anything is wrong. If you're worried, contact your midwife.

Can I have a scan at 5 weeks?

You can have a private early scan at 5 weeks. The NHS dating scan is typically done between 11+2 and 14+1 weeks.

What should I be eating at 5 weeks?

Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and calcium-rich foods. Take folic acid daily. Avoid raw meat, soft cheeses, unpasteurised dairy, and high-mercury fish. Stay hydrated.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Related articles: