Pregnancy symptoms week 5, need to know

Pregnancy symptoms are physical changes caused mainly by rising pregnancy hormones. These Early pregnancy symptoms are usually normal, but tell your doctor or midwife if any symptom is severe or worries you.

Week 5 is counted from the first day of your last period, so conception happened only about three weeks ago. Many women first realize they are pregnant around now, often because their period is late.

The hormone hCG is made by the developing placenta, and its level climbs quickly in early pregnancy. Progesterone and estrogen also rise. Together they drive most of the symptoms below, and how strongly you feel them varies from woman to woman.

Fetal Heartbeat at Week 5

Around week 5 the embryo's tiny heart is starting to form and beat. It is usually too early to see on a scan, though a vaginal ultrasound can sometimes pick up cardiac activity from about week 6.

Pregnancy Symptoms Week 5

According to the NHS week 5 pregnancy guide, many women do not notice any symptoms yet. If you do, you may experience the following.

1- Lightheadedness

Blood pressure often dips in early pregnancy, which can make you feel dizzy or faint. Sit or lie down when it happens, and stand up slowly.

Call your doctor if you faint or if dizziness comes with bleeding, belly pain or a severe headache.

2- Morning Sickness

Nausea often starts around week 6, but it can begin earlier. Despite its name, it can happen at any time of day.

Eating several small meals instead of two or three large ones can help. Call your doctor if you cannot keep food or fluids down. Don't take any medication for nausea without your doctor's advice.

3- Breast Changes

Sore, swollen and tender breasts are one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Hormones cause these changes as your breasts start preparing for feeding. Your nipples may also become more prominent and the areola may darken.

4- Abdominal Cramps & Bloating

Mild cramping, a bit like period pain, and bloating are common as the uterus begins to change. Coughing, sneezing or shifting position can make it feel worse for a moment.

Contact your doctor straight away if cramps are severe, one-sided or come with bleeding, as these can be signs of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

5- Frequent Urination

Pregnancy hormones increase blood flow to the pelvis and kidneys, so you may need to pee more often. Keep drinking fluids to stay hydrated.

Urinary tract infections are more common during pregnancy. Call your doctor if urinating burns or hurts, or if you have a fever or back pain.

6- Fatigue

Rising progesterone can make you feel very tired and sleepy. Extreme tiredness is one of the most common first-trimester symptoms, and it often eases in the second trimester.

7- Vaginal Bleeding

Light spotting can happen when the fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that bleeding in the first trimester happens in 15 to 25 in 100 pregnancies.

Still, any bleeding during pregnancy, even in first trimester Pregnancy, should be reported to your doctor. Seek care immediately if bleeding is heavy or comes with pain.

8- Constipation

Progesterone slows the movement of food through your digestive tract, which can lead to constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating more fiber, fruit and vegetables can help relieve it.