Week 2: And we're on our way!
Fetal development in pregnancy week 2:
embryo in first month Your little blastocyst is now separating into two distinct parts: the amniotic cavity (or yolk sac) and the embryo (your baby-to-be). The yolk sac’s main job is to protect and nourish your baby until the placenta is fully formed. Right now, the placenta is just beginning to take shape, but won’t be complete for another 8 weeks or so. The beginnings of the umbilical cord are visible and partly functional, although it is still not fully formed.
And how's mom doing? Even if you’re not aware of your pregnancy yet, in retrospect it will be of no surprise that you’re feeling more groggy than usual. If you think about it: your body is working extra hard getting together all the necessary plans and materials to house a growing breathing human being! You may also find your body is working extra hard getting together all the necessary plans and materials to house a growing breathing human being! that your breasts are a little swollen and tender and you may be urinating more frequently. These are all common early-pregnancy symptoms. At this point your body is producing copious amounts of the hormone Beta-hCG (Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin – just use the acronym), which increases estrogen and progesterone output and are the hormones that yield a positive pregnancy test were you to take one. Now would be a good time to schedule an appointment with your family physician or gynecologist for positive confirmation. In the meantime, you should make every effort to keep your newly pregnant-self as healthy and happy as possible. This means: NO alcohol, NO tobacco, NO caffeine (NO lattes!), NO recreational drugs and try to stay away from highly stressful events as much as possible. You are now responsible for the ongoing health and well being of a vulnerable little tiny human-to-be who's health and well-being are dependent on YOU and your behavior for the next 9 months.
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