Week 5 pregnancy:

At 5 weeks pregnant,baby is the size of an apple seed.Your embryo is now measurable.Baby is now gearing up for much more growth.

During week 5 of pregnancy changes in your body are still subtle and your baby is still tiny.This is the time when many pregnant women start to experience their first pregnancy symptoms as a result of hormonal changes.

At week 5 you are supposed to gain weight.Your doctor will discuss about your weight gain based on your body type.

Various hormones such as Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG),Progesterone and Estrogenare circulating throughout your body to maintain and support your pregnancy.

1.Human Chorionic Gonadotropin ( hCG) : This hormone helps in the nourishment of your baby.It is also responsible for maintaining adequate levels of progesterone.

2.Progesterone : It is not only responsible for maintaining placental function but it is also responsible for inhibiting uterine contractions and stimulating breast tissue growth.

3.Estrogen : This hormone is produced to maintain progesterone and hCG levels.

Baby’s development:

Your baby is growing at a rapid pace with several cell types and organs starting to develop,including the blood cells,kidney cells,nerve cells,brain,spinal cord,heart and gastrointestinal tract.

By now the embryo consists of three types:

1.Ectoderm : The neural tube responsible for forming the brain,spinal cord,nerves and backbone is developing from the ectoderm.
2.Mesoderm : Your baby’s heart and circulatory system will be formed from the mesoderm which will also form muscles,cartilage,bone and subcutaneous tissues.
3.Endoderm : The lungs,intestines,urinary system,thyroid,liver and pancreas form from the endoderm.
While these organs are developing,the primitive placenta and umbilical cord are functioning and are providing your baby with the nourishment and oxygen necessary for survival.

Symptoms observed during week 5 of pregnancy:

Pregnancy symptoms are unique and unpredictable. Some women can have healthy pregnancies without any of the same symptoms.Likewise you can have bad nausea in your first pregnancy but no morning sickness during your 2nd pregnancy. Some of the symptoms include morning sickness, frequent urination, acute sense of smell, abdominal cramps, bleeding, fatigue,  food cravings, constipation and mood swings

Food that should be consumed during 5 weeks of pregnancy:

Folic acid 

Folic acid is recommended when you are trying to get pregnant and for the first trimester. Green leafy vegetables, eggs, fruits, dry fruits, pulses, lentils are all rich source of folic acid.
Iron  

Iron is very essential for the healthy blood supply. At this stage, a mother needs a strong blood flow in her body to give strength to overcome her morning sickness and fatigue. Fruits, vegetables like spinach, fenugreek, beetroot, dry fruits are rich in iron.
Calcium 

The bones of the foetus develop at this stage hence consuming calcium is very important. Vegetables like turnip, cabbage, leafy vegetables are all excellent sources of calcium.
Proteins 

  Protein is essential from the first stage of pregnancy. Milk and lentils contain rich source of protein.
Zinc  

Zinc is needed for acid metabolism and biological functions. Vegetables and beans are all rich sources of zinc.
Fats 

Fats are not always bad but it is the kind of fat which is helpful for the growth of our baby. Healthy intake of good fat in the form of ghee and cream will aid in the development of the eyes, brain, placenta, growth f tissues and also restrict any abnormality during childbirth.
Fibre 

An important ingredient to aid digestion and prevent constipation ,fibre in the diet is highly recommended. Fibre rich diet made up of vegetables like carrot, cabbage, cereals, fruits like oranges and bananas will help to maintain blood pressure and reduce any risk during pregnancy.

Foods that should be avoided during week 5 of pregnancy:

• Raw or uncooked food
• Unpasteurized milk and dairy products
• Liver and other foods containing vitamin A
• Certain cheese
• Under cooked ready meals
• Raw eggs

Exercises that can be done during week 5 of pregnancy:

Swimming:

Swimming while pregnant is the perfect activity for expecting women as it helps in relieving pregnancy aches and pains.

Benefits of swimming while pregnant:

• Relieves ankle and foot swelling
• Reduces morning sickness
• Keeps you cool
• Improves your labour and delivery experience.

Safety tips that need to be following during swimming:

• Check for water safety
• Avoid the hot tub
• Be careful while walking on slippery surfaces.
• Don’t hold your breath
• Keep hydrated

When you should stop swimming:

If you experience any sharp pain,shortness of breath,faintness,vaginal bleeding,dizziness,contractions,absence of fetal movements stop your swimming immediately and contact your practitioner.