The embryo nearly doubles in size this week. Brain cells are forming at a rate of about 100 per minute, and the beginnings of hands and feet are visible on the limb buds. Growth is happening faster than at any other point in the pregnancy. Use our Due Date Calculator to find your estimated delivery date.
Key Takeaways
- The embryo is about 8 mm (blueberry size) and nearly doubles in size this week — the fastest growth rate of the entire pregnancy.
- The brain is generating approximately 100 new neurons per minute, and the liver is now producing red blood cells.
- The umbilical cord is fully functional this week, delivering oxygen and nutrients from the developing placenta to the embryo.
- ACOG considers up to 200 mg of caffeine per day (roughly one 12-oz cup of coffee) safe during pregnancy; higher amounts may increase miscarriage risk.
Your Baby This Week
Size: Blueberry (about 8 mm)
- Brain: Generating neurons at a staggering pace. The forebrain is starting to specialize.
- Face: The mouth, tongue, and palate are forming. Lens of the eyes starting to develop.
- Limbs: Arm and leg buds are longer. Paddle-shaped hand plates appear.
- Organs: The liver is producing red blood cells. The appendix and pancreas are forming.
- Umbilical cord: Now fully functional, delivering oxygen and nutrients from the developing placenta.
The embryo still has a small tail-like structure, which will disappear over the next few weeks. Track your baby's growth with our Milestone Tracker.
Your Body
- Nausea may be peaking around now
- Frequent urination as your expanding uterus presses on the bladder
- Excess saliva (ptyalism), an annoying but harmless symptom
- Skin changes like acne or oilier skin
- Food aversions may be strong, especially to strong smells
Your blood volume is already starting to increase. By the end of pregnancy, you will have about 50% more blood than before.
What to Do This Week
- Schedule your first prenatal visit if you have not already. Most providers see patients between weeks 8 and 12. Our prenatal appointments guide explains what to expect at each visit.
- Stay consistent with your prenatal vitamin. If it makes nausea worse, try taking it at night or with food.
- Consider who to tell. Many people wait until after the first trimester to share the news, but there is no right or wrong time.
Common Questions
Why am I so tired?
Your body is building a placenta, increasing blood volume, and running on high levels of progesterone, which is a natural sedative. First-trimester fatigue is one of the most common symptoms and usually improves in the second trimester.
Is coffee still okay?
Moderate caffeine intake (under 200 mg per day, about one 12-oz cup of coffee) is considered safe by ACOG. Higher amounts may be associated with increased miscarriage risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I so exhausted at 7 weeks pregnant?
First-trimester fatigue is caused by the combination of rapidly rising progesterone (which has a sedative effect), increased blood production, and the enormous energy demand of building the placenta and embryo. Most people experience significant relief once they enter the second trimester around week 13.
Is it safe to drink coffee at 7 weeks?
ACOG advises limiting caffeine to under 200 mg per day during pregnancy — roughly equivalent to one 12-oz cup of brewed coffee. Amounts above this threshold have been associated with a modestly increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.
When should I have my first prenatal appointment?
Most providers see patients for the first time between weeks 8 and 12. If you have not yet called, week 7 is a good time. The first visit typically includes a health history review, blood work, urine tests, and often an ultrasound to confirm the due date and check for a heartbeat.
Why do I have excess saliva during pregnancy?
Excess saliva (ptyalism gravidarum) affects some pregnant people, particularly those with significant nausea. It is caused by hormonal changes and is harmless, though uncomfortable. It usually resolves as nausea improves in the second trimester.
Related Articles
- Pregnancy Week-by-Week Overview — see the full timeline
- Pregnancy Week 8: Your First Ultrasound — what comes next
- Ultrasound During Pregnancy, what to expect from your scans
Sources
🔧 Helpful Tools
- Due Date Calculator — Calculate your estimated due date
- Contraction Timer — Track your contractions during labor
- All Baby Tools — Browse all free tools for pregnancy and baby care
