This is the week many people find out they are pregnant. The blastocyst has implanted into the uterine wall, and your body is now producing hCG, the hormone that pregnancy tests detect. A missed period and a positive test may be your first clue.
Your Baby This Week
Size: Poppy seed (about 1 mm)
The embryo has two layers of cells: the epiblast and the hypoblast. These will develop into all the organs and body parts over the coming weeks. The amniotic sac is forming, and the yolk sac is providing nutrients until the placenta takes over.
The embryo is burrowing deeper into the uterine lining, establishing a blood supply connection with you.
Your Body
As hCG levels rise, you might start noticing subtle changes:
- Missed period (the most obvious sign)
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Mild cramping (similar to period cramps)
- Fatigue that feels heavier than usual
- Light spotting (implantation bleeding, which is normal)
Many people feel nothing at all at this stage, and that is equally normal.
What to Do This Week
- Take a home pregnancy test. First-morning urine gives the most accurate result because hCG is most concentrated. If the test is negative but your period is late, wait a few days and test again.
- Schedule a prenatal appointment. Most providers want to see you between weeks 8 and 10, but calling now gets you on the calendar.
- Start or continue a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 mcg of folic acid, iron, and DHA.
Common Questions
Can a pregnancy test be wrong this early?
A positive result is almost always accurate. A negative result this early can be a false negative if hCG levels are still too low. If your period is late and the test is negative, retest in 2 to 3 days.
What is implantation bleeding?
About 25% of pregnant people experience light spotting when the embryo attaches to the uterine wall. It is usually pink or light brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts a day or two.