What to Expect at 3 Weeks Pregnant: Early Signs and Symptoms

Has it been around 15 days since you missed your period? Really? Look, if that’s the case, then maybe some good news is on your way! Fun tidbit: you’re not pregnant during the first two weeks. However, when you’re 3 weeks pregnant, it is when the magic begins. Why? Because this is the time when you can run a pregnancy test. So, go for it, baby mama!!

Tomorrow morning, get up, and the first thing you do is grab the pregnancy test kit. Drop a sample of your urine, and voila! If you witness two faint pink lines on the test strip, congratulations! You are going to be a ‘Mum’. If it comes back negative, don't worry; you can try again in a few days. 

Well, do you hear your baby calling?

Implantation May Occur

Knock knock! Are you there, mama? I am here; can you feel me? Isn’t it exciting to know that I am blooming within you? Mama, you must be overwhelmed at this moment, right? I am excited! I am only 3 weeks old and can’t wait to be held in your arms. 

Well, to-be-mamas, in the 3rd week of pregnancy, usually ovulation and implantation occur. The male sperm and the female egg fuse to form a zygote. This process is known as fertilisation. This zygote (or fertilised egg) then travels into the uterus through the fallopian tubes and attaches to the uterine wall.

Doctor’s Appointment 

My dearest mum, I am awaiting when you’ll visit the doctor and I can see myself getting a prenatal scan! Also, don’t forget to make a note of questions to ask them regarding diet, eating habits, delivery, growth, and supplements to take. Be mentally prepared as the doctor may suggest some tests to confirm my tiny existence. Get ready, mama!!

When you visit the doctor, they may tell you a lot of interesting facts that you may not be aware of! When you’re 3 weeks pregnant, the blastocyte (cluster of dividing cells made by a fertilized egg) is growing rapidly in your body. Some of it takes the form of a placenta, which produces hCG, - human chorionic gonadotropin (a hormone released by a pregnant woman’s body). This pregnancy hormone is detected by pregnancy strips. So, if you’ve got those pink lines on the test kit, it’s because of the increasing levels of this hCG hormone.

Baby At Week-3

Hey my loving mom, I know you’re thinking about how big I might have grown at week 3! Interestingly, I am a tiny little creature who has a total of 46 chromosomes. I have got 23 chromosomes from my dad (father’s sperm) and 23 chromosomes from you (mother’s egg) thereby forming my genetic map. I’ve already decided on my gender but I won’t tell you (sh., I would keep it a secret until the end). Moreover, my eye colour, hair colour, and many other features are already there but you won’t get a hint; that’s sad! You’ve to wait a little! Let’s see, who I take after- you or Dadda!

3 Weeks Pregnant Baby Size

Hey Mama, you’re now 3 weeks pregnant and I’ve finally turned from a single cell to a lively newborn boy or girl. 

As soon as the winning sperm passes through the egg's outer layer, the single-cell fertilised egg (or zygote) builds a barrier to keep other sperm out. At this point, the zygote attaches itself to the uterine wall and develops into a blastocyst made up of hundreds of cells.

Do you know, mama? I am like a small ball, measuring around 0.2 mm, floating inside your tummy at this point. Imagine, how adorable I must be looking!

Mother’s Changing Body: What To Expect?

The initial three months of pregnancy (first trimester) can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. As a mum-to-be, your body experiences a lot of changes; some of which may start before you realise or verify that you are pregnant. Being aware of what to anticipate and search for can assist in getting ready.

3rd-Week Pregnancy Symptoms

At 3 weeks of pregnancy, some of you may not experience any symptoms at all! And some of you may notice the common signs of pregnancy. Let's discuss them in detail.

• Missed Period - If your menstrual cycle is usually less than 28 days long, you might begin to suspect by the end of this week that you might be pregnant. The only way to confirm is by taking a pregnancy test.
• Sore Breasts - Another common symptom in the 3rd week of pregnancy is tender and swollen breasts. With it, your nipples may make you feel a little uncomfortable and sensitive.
• Morning Sickness - As the pregnancy hormone hCG begins to circulate, you may have queasiness—or nausea so severe that you vomit. Ideally, this should be called an ‘all-day sickness’ because a pregnant mum goes through this feeling all day long!
• Frequent Urination- Urination becomes more often than usual for you. During pregnancy, your body's blood volume increases, making your kidneys process excess fluid that ends up in your bladder.
• Fatigue - It’s common to be tired and lazy during pregnancy, however, it gets better in the second trimester. An increase in the levels of progesterone hormones may lead to excessive sleepiness when you’re 3-weeks pregnant.
• Mood Swings - With the fluctuating hormones, you can go through a wave of mixed emotions leading to mood swings. So, dear husbands, gear up and bear with your pregnant wives! 5
• Food Cravings - During 3rd week of pregnancy, some women may become sensitive towards a specific food or smell or their taste might also change.
• Skin Changes - Along with the body changes, you may notice a few skin alterations during the early phase of your pregnancy. Thanks to the changing and fluctuating hormones!

3-Weeks Pregnant? Follow These Self-Care Tips!

Pregnancy brings a lot of responsibilities. You have to take care of yourself and also nurture the life inside you with proper nutrition. Follow the tips and tricks below to keep yourself and your little one healthier.

1. Take Adequate Rest - Since your body is going through a lot of changes, we suggest you rest well and get enough sleep. It’s time to relax, preggos!
2. Release Stress - Try and indulge in some stress-releasing activities like listening to music, painting, or doing anything that gives you happiness. Remember, not to exert yourself too much. Even if talking to your friend over a call helps, do that!
3. Avoid Smoking/Alcohol - Ditch the bad habits of drinking alcohol and cigarette smoking. They can be harmful to you and your baby (may also add to various complications).
4. Have A Healthy Diet - Eating a nutritious and balanced diet is good for you and your baby as well. Make sure you eat seasonal fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and proteins.