Week 7: Fingers and Toes

Your baby is now the size of a blueberry and developing at a breathtaking pace! This week, small fingers and toes begin to form, even though they are still webbed together. It is fascinating to think that the tiny hands and feet are already taking shape.

The liver has taken over the production of red blood cells, and the brain is producing around 100,000 new nerve cells every minute. Quite remarkable for a little creature just 8 millimeters long!

The first prenatal appointment is approaching, which is usually between weeks 8 and 12. It is a good idea to book an appointment with your doctor or midwife now if you have not already.

Baby's Development

The embryo is going through one of its most active weeks of development:

Fingers and toes form: The hands and feet now have distinct fingers and toes, but they are still connected by a thin membrane between them
Liver at work: The liver has started producing red blood cells — a task it takes on until the bone marrow is mature enough
Brain growth: The brain is growing enormously and producing approximately 100,000 new nerve cells per minute. The brain divides into front, middle, and back sections
Joints form: Elbows and knees are beginning to take shape, which will soon give the embryo the ability to bend its arms and legs
Mouth opening: The mouth, tongue, and palate are forming. The first hints of teeth (tooth buds) are developing
Kidneys form: The permanent kidneys are beginning to take shape and will soon start their function
Eyes take shape: Pigment in the retina is visible, and eyelids begin to form to protect the eyes
Size: The embryo is approximately 8–11 mm long and weighs less than 1 gram

Brain Growth in Detail

In week 7, the brain is growing faster than any other part of the body. It already makes up a large proportion of the embryo's total size. The three main divisions are all under active development:

Forebrain: Controls thinking, memory, and emotions
Midbrain: Controls vision and motor function
Hindbrain: Regulates balance, breathing, and heart rhythm

This rapid brain growth is why nutrition, folic acid, and a healthy environment matter so much during these early weeks. Every minute, the foundation is being laid for millions of nerve connections that will control all of the baby's functions throughout life.

The Face Takes Shape

This week, big things are happening with the baby's face. The nostrils are visible as two small indentations, and the upper lip is beginning to take shape. The outer ears start as small folds on the sides of the head. The eyes, which started as small pits, now have lenses and a developing retina. Although the face still looks quite primitive, all the building blocks are in place.

Your Body

Nausea often at its peak: Weeks 7–9 are typically the worst period for morning sickness — hold on, it does get better
Food aversions: Many experience a strong aversion to foods they normally like, especially meat, coffee, and eggs
Skin changes: Some get more spots, while others find their skin improves — hormones affect people differently
Constipation: Progesterone slows digestion, which can cause constipation and bloating
Increased blood volume: The body is starting to produce more blood to supply the baby with nutrients. You may notice veins becoming more visible
Excess saliva: Some pregnant people experience increased saliva production, especially alongside nausea
Vaginal discharge: Increased discharge is normal and is caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the pelvis

Why Is Nausea Worst Right Now?

hCG levels in the blood are at their highest between weeks 7 and 12. This hormone, produced by the placenta, is the primary cause of pregnancy nausea. Researchers believe nausea may have had an evolutionary function — keeping pregnant people away from foods that might contain toxins or bacteria during the most vulnerable period of fetal development.

Ginger is safe to use against pregnancy nausea. Ginger tea, ginger capsules (up to 1 gram daily), or fresh ginger in food can provide relief. Acupressure bands on the wrist are another option that some people find helpful. For very severe nausea (hyperemesis gravidarum), a doctor can prescribe anti-nausea medication that is safe in pregnancy.

Good to Know

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the baby's brain development. Aim to eat fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel two to three times per week. If you do not like fish, an omega-3 supplement from a pharmacy can be a good alternative. Choose supplements based on fish oil or algae oil, and avoid supplements based on cod liver oil, which contains too much vitamin A for pregnancy.

Constipation is common in pregnancy and can be prevented with fiber-rich food, enough fluids, and regular movement. Whole grains, fruit, vegetables, and prunes are good sources of fiber. Try to drink at least 1.5 liters of water daily.

Remember it is completely fine if you cannot eat healthily all the time right now. Eat what you can keep down — the most important thing is to get something in. Nausea passes, and you can focus more on nutrition then.

This week can also be a good time to start thinking about who you want to tell about the pregnancy. Many wait until after week 12, but it is entirely up to you. Some find it helpful to have someone to talk to, especially if nausea is tough.

Booking Your First Prenatal Appointment

Your first prenatal appointment is usually between weeks 8 and 12. Contact your doctor or midwife to book this now.

What to Expect at the First Appointment

Blood tests: Blood type, Rh factor, iron levels, hepatitis B, HIV, and rubella antibodies
Urine sample: Checks for protein and glucose
Blood pressure: Baseline measurement
Health history: Review of your and your family's health history
Information: Guidance on diet, exercise, supplements, and what to avoid
Prenatal testing: Information about optional tests such as NIPT and nuchal translucency screening

Use the due date calculator to estimate your expected delivery date and plan your appointments.

Diet and What to Avoid

These foods should be avoided during pregnancy:

Raw and undercooked meat: Risk of toxoplasmosis. Ensure meat is fully cooked
Unpasteurized dairy: Soft and mold-ripened cheeses from unpasteurized milk may contain listeria
Refrigerated smoked and cured fish: Risk of listeria. Heat-treated fish is safe
Large amounts of liver: Contains a lot of vitamin A, which can harm the baby in high doses
Alcohol: No amount is known to be safe during pregnancy according to WHO and CDC
Caffeine: Limit to 200 mg per day (about one cup of filtered coffee)

Good foods for pregnant people include:

Lean meat and fully cooked fish
Fully cooked eggs
Pasteurized dairy products
Whole grains
Fruit and vegetables (at least five portions daily)
Beans, lentils, and nuts

For Your Partner

Be patient with food aversions — do not pressure your partner to eat foods that trigger nausea
Offer to shop and cook foods your partner can tolerate right now, even if it is simple everyday food
Discuss together who you want to tell about the pregnancy, and respect each other's wishes
Come along to the prenatal appointment — it is beneficial to have two people hearing the information
Read up on fetal development in the pregnancy timeline — understanding what is happening makes it easier to be supportive

Tips for Week 7

Try omega-3: Eat fatty fish two to three times per week, or talk to your pharmacist about a safe supplement
Prevent constipation: Eat fiber-rich foods, drink enough water, and take a short walk daily
Be kind to yourself: If nausea makes normal eating difficult, that is completely fine — eat what you can
Follow the pregnancy week by week: Check the pregnancy timeline to see what is happening with the baby and your body each week
Book your prenatal appointment: Schedule an appointment with your doctor or midwife for the first check-up
Start pelvic floor exercises: It is never too early — they prepare the body for birth and help with recovery

When to Contact a Doctor

Contact your doctor or midwife if you experience:

Nausea and vomiting so severe you cannot keep fluids down for more than 24 hours (may be hyperemesis gravidarum)
Blood in urine or pain when urinating (may be a urinary tract infection, which is more common in pregnancy)
Bright red bleeding or bleeding with clots
Severe abdominal pain that does not subside, especially on one side
Fever over 38°C (100.4°F)

Urinary tract infections are more common in pregnancy and should be treated promptly to avoid complications. Contact your doctor if you experience burning when urinating, a frequent urge to urinate, or pain in the lower back.

Did You Know?

The baby's liver has already taken over the production of red blood cells — a job it will keep until the bone marrow is mature enough to take over, around week 20.
The brain is now producing around 100,000 new nerve cells every single minute. This incredible growth rate lays the foundation for the entire nervous system.
Your baby still has a small tail left over from early embryonic development. It will disappear completely over the coming weeks.
The fingers and toes are connected by a thin membrane resembling webbing. This membrane will gradually disappear so that each finger and toe becomes fully separate.
Kidney function is beginning to come online. The permanent kidneys replace the temporary kidneys that have been functioning up until now.
The embryo is now about 10,000 times larger than the fertilized egg was just five weeks ago. The exponential growth is at its fastest rate right now.

Frequently Asked Questions About Week 7

Is constipation common in pregnancy?

Yes, very common! The hormone progesterone causes the intestinal muscles to relax, which slows digestion. The body also absorbs more water from the intestine. Eat fiber-rich food such as whole grains, fruit, and vegetables, drink plenty of water, and stay active to prevent it. Prunes are a natural remedy that many find effective.

Can I eat fish during pregnancy?

Yes, fish is actually recommended! Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids important for the baby's brain development. Major health bodies recommend two to three portions of fish per week. Avoid raw fish (sushi with raw fish), and limit large predatory fish such as tuna due to mercury content. Refrigerated smoked and cured fish should also be avoided due to listeria risk.

Who should I tell about the pregnancy?

It is entirely up to you and your partner. Many wait until after week 12, but there are no rules. Some advantages of telling people early are that you can get support from friends and family, especially if you are struggling with nausea. Others prefer to wait until the risk of miscarriage is lower. Tell people when it feels right for you.

Is it normal to have spots (acne) during pregnancy?

Yes, hormonal changes can cause skin to behave differently. Some pregnant people get more spots, while others find their skin clears up. Use mild, fragrance-free products and avoid spot treatments containing retinol or high doses of salicylic acid, as these are not recommended during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about skincare products.

Can stress harm the baby in early pregnancy?

Everyday stress is not dangerous for the baby. The body is designed to protect the fetus. But prolonged, intense stress can negatively affect pregnancy. Try to find good relaxation routines, such as walks in nature, yoga, or meditation. Talk to your midwife or doctor if you are experiencing a lot of anxiety or worry.

What is the difference between folic acid and folate?

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in food (green vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits). Folic acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods. The body absorbs folic acid more readily than natural folate from food, which is why supplements are recommended in addition to a varied diet. The dose is 400 micrograms daily as recommended by WHO and ACOG.

Can I still exercise in week 7?

Yes, moderate exercise is safe and recommended throughout pregnancy. Good activities in week 7 include:

Walking at a relaxed pace
Swimming
Yoga (avoid positions that put pressure on the abdomen)
Light strength training
Pelvic floor exercises

Avoid contact sports, activities with risk of falling, and exercise that makes you very breathless. Listen to your body — if nausea is strong, a gentle walk in fresh air is often the best option.

Is it normal to bleed a little in early pregnancy?

Light spotting in the first trimester is quite common. It can be caused by implantation bleeding, hormonal changes, or contact bleeding after sex. It is usually harmless.

You should contact your doctor if the bleeding:

Is heavier than light spotting
Is bright red
Contains clots or tissue
Is accompanied by severe abdominal pain

Should I start taking an omega-3 supplement?

The best source of omega-3 is fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, 2–3 portions per week. If you do not like fish or are not eating enough, a supplement based on fish oil or algae oil can be a good alternative. Avoid cod liver oil, as it contains too much vitamin A for pregnant people. Ask your pharmacist about recommended dosing.

Is increased vaginal discharge normal in pregnancy?

Yes, increased vaginal discharge is completely normal in pregnancy. It is caused by increased blood flow to the pelvis and hormonal changes. Normal discharge is white or clear and odorless.

Contact your doctor if discharge:

Is green, yellow, or grey
Has a strong or unpleasant odor
Is accompanied by itching or burning
Contains blood

Next week: The baby begins to move, and all the major organs are nearly in place!