Pregnancy 4 weeks is one of the most important milestones in the development of a baby

The 4th week of pregnancy is a rather important stage in the formation of the embryo, since the cells of the organs and systems laid down in the third week begin to actively develop. And their development can be affected by various factors, both external and internal.

Internal factors include the emotional state of the woman. External factors include the lifestyle of the pregnant woman. At this stage, you should lead a healthy lifestyle and stop taking any medications, alcoholic beverages, and not smoke in order to prevent disruption in the development of the embryo and give birth to a healthy child.

[ 1 ], [ 2 ], [ 3 ], [ 4 ]

Signs of pregnancy at 4 weeks

Signs of pregnancy in the 4th week are manifested, first of all, by the absence of menstrual discharge. In addition, the woman experiences the following symptoms:

• emotional lability - sudden changes in mood,
• engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands are noted,
• high fatigue with usual loads,
• dyspeptic disorders in the form of nausea, vomiting and increased salivation,
• drowsiness and weakness,
• change in taste,
• minor pulling pains in the lower abdomen and/or lower back,
• Frequent urination is possible,
• basal temperature above 37°C.

Also, when conducting additional examination methods, pregnancy can be detected based on the high content of human chorionic gonadotropin in the blood, urine (using test strips) and during an ultrasound examination, which shows the presence of an embryo in the uterine cavity.

What happens at 4 weeks pregnant?

Many pregnant women who are in this period want to know what happens in the 4th week of pregnancy. This period is characterized by the transformation of the fertilized egg into the embryo itself. The embryo at this time looks like a flat disk with three layers.

1. The extraembryonic organs are formed from the outer layer of cellular elements: the yolk sac, chorion, and amniotic membrane (amnion). These organs perform protective, nutritional, and respiratory functions.
   • The chorion is the outer shell of the embryo, from which the placenta will form. Its formation will continue until twelve weeks. Through the placenta, the embryo will receive oxygen and substances necessary for its vital functions. Also, at the point of contact of the embryo with the endometrium of the uterus, the vascular network begins to form.
   • The amniotic membrane (amnion) is formed as a cavity where the embryo will be located. Subsequently, the amniotic membrane will turn into the amniotic sac. The amnion produces amniotic fluid, which protects the embryo from impacts, drying out, and provides optimal conditions for life.
   • The yolk sac is responsible for hematopoietic function until seven to eight weeks of pregnancy.
   • The cells of the outer layer (ectoderm) are transformed into skin, hair, nervous system, eye lenses and tooth enamel.
2. The cells of the middle layer (mesoderm) are transformed into the skeletal system, connective and muscle tissue, circulatory and excretory systems, and organs of the reproductive system.

The digestive tract, liver, pancreas, thyroid gland, and respiratory system organs will form from the cells of the inner layer (endoderm).

In the 4th week of pregnancy, the embryo's head is formed, it looks like a droplet at this time. By the end of the 4th week, the initial stage of intrauterine development of the embryo, called blastogenesis, ends.

Fetus at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The fetus at 4 weeks of pregnancy continues to grow and develop intensively. At this stage, it is also called an embryo, into which it turns from a fertilized egg. The embryo at this stage looks like a flat disk with 3 layers, from which organs and systems will subsequently form. At the end of the fourth week, the neural plate is formed, from which the spinal cord and brain will develop in the future, the rudiments of glands are present, and the face with the rudiments of eyes is formed. The tiny embryo at this stage has a size of four to five millimeters.

If you are 4 weeks pregnant, the embryonic period begins. From now until 10 weeks, all of your baby's organs will begin to develop, and some will even begin to function. As a result, this period is the most vulnerable to developmental damage. At this point, the baby is made up of two layers: the primary ectoderm and the hypoblast, from which all of the organs and body parts are formed.

The primitive placenta also consists of two layers at this time. Its cells are connected to the tissues of the uterus, so the developed placenta provides the fetus with nutrients and oxygen.

An amniotic sac is also formed with amniotic fluid in it, which will protect the fetus, and a yolk sac, which produces red blood cells for the baby.

Important: Each baby's development is unique. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of fetal development.

[ 5 ], [ 6 ]

Changes in the expectant mother in the 4th week of pregnancy

With the help of a pregnancy test, you can finally be sure that you are expecting a baby.

If the test is positive, schedule your first prenatal consultation with your gynecologist. In most cases, your doctor will schedule it no earlier than the eighth week, or earlier if you have chronic conditions, symptoms that need to be checked, or if you had problems with a previous pregnancy.

If you are taking any medications, it is now worth consulting with your doctor to determine how safe they are for your baby.

Before pregnancy, you should take a multivitamin containing at least 400 micrograms of folic acid, and once you become pregnant, the dose should be increased to 600 micrograms per day.

The next six weeks are important for the baby's development. The still-simplified placenta and umbilical cord, which deliver nutrition and oxygen to the baby, are already functioning.

If you have been trying to get pregnant for a year or longer without success, see your doctor for an examination to identify any problems.

Pregnancy test, "I did a home pregnancy test and got a negative result, but I already knew for sure that I was pregnant, I felt it. I waited a few days, and did another test in the morning. This time, I was right, it was positive." - Anonymous

[ 7 ], [ 8 ], [ 9 ]

Feelings at 4 weeks of pregnancy

There may be no sensations in the 4th week of pregnancy. But in most cases, the emotional state of the woman suffers due to hormonal changes. Mood swings, increased tearfulness and touchiness, unreasonable irritability are noted. In addition to disturbances in the emotional sphere, the woman feels engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands, there may be pulling pains in the lower abdomen and/or lower back, increased mucous discharge without odor, the perception of various types of odors and a change in taste preferences changes, fluid retention is often noted and swelling appears. Often in the 4th week of pregnancy, nausea, increased salivation and vomiting are observed.

HCG at 4 weeks of pregnancy

HCG continues to be produced in the 4th week of pregnancy even after the implantation of the fertilized egg. Human chorionic gonadotropin is secreted by the embryo's membrane - the chorion - and affects the woman's genitals, thus directing them to support the developing pregnancy. The function of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is high:

• provides support for the development and functioning of the corpus luteum of pregnancy up to seven weeks,
• takes part in the secretion of steroids in the fetus, thus participating in the formation of the sex of the fetus,
• has an immunosuppressive effect, thereby preventing the rejection of the embryo, which is foreign to the woman’s immune system.

Human chorionic gonadotropin increases every two to three days in the first weeks, and as pregnancy progresses, its level begins to fall. The highest level of human chorionic gonadotropin is observed in the eighth to tenth week, after which it begins to decline.

HCG in the 4th week of pregnancy can be determined using a laboratory test method, in which blood is taken for analysis, and a woman can also determine its presence in urine using test strips.

Progesterone at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Progesterone continues to increase in the 4th week of pregnancy. It is produced by the corpus luteum of pregnancy before the formation of the placenta, which will subsequently take over the production of progesterone. Progesterone plays a significant role not only in the 4th week of pregnancy, but throughout its entire period. The function of progesterone is as follows:

• ensures the growth of the uterus and prepares it for the enlargement of the embryo,
• prevents the contraction of the uterine muscles and thus prevents the threat of miscarriage,
• increases the accumulation of substances in the form of subcutaneous fat tissue, necessary for the nutrition of the embryo and the woman's body,
• reduces the functioning of the immune system so that the woman's body does not reject the embryo's foreign body,
• ensures the growth and development of the mammary glands,
• helps prepare the pelvic ligaments for labor,
• takes part in the development of some tissues in the embryo.

The progesterone content at 4 weeks of pregnancy varies depending on the laboratory and averages 18 Nmol/l. Before taking a progesterone test, you must stop taking hormonal drugs, not eat, and avoid stress and physical activity.

Uterus at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The uterus swells and softens in the 4th week of pregnancy, especially in the area of the isthmus, due to which its slight mobility is noted. The mucous membrane of the uterus and cervix is bluish in color, due to the increased blood flow. A mucous plug is formed in the cervix, which will perform a protective function, in particular, prevent the penetration of bacterial infection from the outside into the uterine cavity. In size, the uterus does not increase significantly in the 4th week and does not extend beyond the boundaries of the small pelvis.

Endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy continues to undergo some changes after implantation of the fertilized egg. The number of blood vessels increases (due to which it acquires a bluish color) and glandular cells, which will subsequently turn into the placenta, and at this stage provide the embryo with oxygen and substances necessary for its nutrition. As the embryo grows and the pregnancy progresses, the endometrium gradually thickens. When performing an ultrasound, the thickness of the endometrium at 4 weeks of pregnancy is on average 20 mm.

[ 10 ], [ 11 ]

Breasts at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The breasts continue to undergo changes in the 4th week of pregnancy. As a result of hormonal changes, their gradual restructuring to breastfeeding begins. Symmetrical growth, engorgement and increased sensitivity of the mammary glands are noted. Minor soreness is possible, as well as darkening of the nipples and areolas.

[ 12 ]

Belly at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The abdomen does not undergo any changes in the 4th week of pregnancy, namely, it does not increase in size, since the embryo is still very tiny and the uterus is in the pelvic area. Minor pulling pains in the lower abdomen may occur, but they usually pass after a few days.

Ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Ultrasound at 4 weeks of pregnancy is performed transvaginally and confirms intrauterine pregnancy. It is defined as a small black circle with a diameter of several millimeters, and is called a fetal sac. Also, on ultrasound at this period, you can see dilated blood vessels in the uterus, which is normal and is associated with the need for more active nutrition of the developing embryo.

It is not yet possible to see the embryonic tissues at week 4, but by the end of this week, the yolk sac, which is a ring of two to three millimeters, will be visible on ultrasound. And after seven days, on this ring, it will be possible to see a tiny embryo, which receives the necessary substances from the yolk sac.

The corpus luteum of pregnancy continues its work intensively:

• increasing in size, it provides nutrients to the embryo until the placenta is formed,
• and also continues to produce the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining and progressing pregnancy.

Ultrasound is rarely performed at 4 weeks of pregnancy; when performed at an early stage, it can also confirm or exclude an ectopic pregnancy or hydatidiform mole in order to react in time and prevent undesirable consequences.

How you feel at 4 weeks of pregnancy

The state of health in the 4th week of pregnancy is characterized by instability of the emotional background - increased irritability, tearfulness; the appearance of digestive tract disorders - nausea, vomiting; minor pulling pains in the lower abdomen and / or in the lumbar region. Basically, the state of health in the 4th week of pregnancy does not suffer, many women feel great.

Abdominal pain at 4 weeks of pregnancy

If the stomach hurts in the 4th week of pregnancy, then this symptom can have several causes. The stomach in the 4th week of pregnancy can hurt normally, the pain is pulling, is not accompanied by any bloody discharge, its intensity does not increase and quickly passes. Pain in the stomach in the 4th week can also indicate the presence of a pathological process:

• diseases of the urinary system (pyelonephritis, cystitis), but in such cases, pain is often accompanied by urinary disorders and fever,
• intestinal dysfunction in the form of constipation, flatulence,
• it is possible that the existing pregnancy is ectopic, therefore, as the embryo grows and the fallopian tube stretches, pain occurs,
• pain may indicate a threat of miscarriage or a frozen pregnancy, especially if it intensifies and is accompanied by bloody discharge,
• inflammatory processes in the abdominal organs are possible (for example, appendicitis).

Considering the large number of reasons that can cause abdominal pain, especially in the 4th week of pregnancy, it is better to consult a doctor to prevent unwanted consequences for the woman and the course of pregnancy.

[ 13 ], [ 14 ]

Why does my stomach hurt in the 4th week of pregnancy?

Often, the stomach pulls in the 4th week of pregnancy due to changes that occur in the female body. Namely, there is a displacement of the pelvic organs, stretching of muscle fibers and ligaments, which contributes to the occurrence of pulling pains in the abdomen.

The stomach may also be pulled by:

• after doing any physical exercise,
• in case of threatened miscarriage,
• in case of ectopic pregnancy,
• as a result of pathological processes in internal organs.

In pathological conditions that are accompanied by nagging pain in the abdomen, other symptoms are often noted (for example, bloody discharge, increased temperature, urinary disorders, increased pain, etc.), which requires immediate medical attention.

Discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Discharge in the 4th week of pregnancy may be thicker than usual, transparent or with a whitish tint, odorless and does not cause discomfort to the woman. Light brown discharge is possible, especially at the beginning of the 4th week, when implantation finally occurs, usually such discharge does not bother, has no odor and disappears after a few days.

[ 15 ], [ 16 ], [ 17 ], [ 18 ], [ 19 ]

Brown discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Brown discharge in the 4th week may be normal, especially if it is light in color, has no odor, and does not cause discomfort to the woman. Such discharge is associated with hormonal changes in the female body, as well as with the completion of the implantation of the embryo in the endometrium of the uterus, and passes in a few days. Dark brown discharge should be a cause for concern, especially if it is accompanied by pain in the abdomen and/or lower back, increases in volume, and acquires an unpleasant odor. Such discharge may indicate a frozen or ectopic pregnancy, cervical erosion, a threat of miscarriage, or the presence of a bacterial sexually transmitted infection, which requires immediate consultation with a specialist.

[ 20 ]

Bloody discharge at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Bloody discharge in the 4th week of pregnancy requires special attention. Bloody discharge may be the result of:

• ectopic pregnancy,
• sexual intercourse,
• gynecological examination (discharge is minor, usually not dangerous),
• frozen pregnancy (scanty and spotting bloody discharge),
• cervical erosion.

The appearance of bloody discharge in the 4th week of pregnancy is a reason to visit a gynecologist to determine the cause of such discharge and, if necessary, undergo appropriate therapy.

[ 21 ]

Lower Back Pain 4 Weeks Pregnant

The lower back hurts in the 4th week of pregnancy due to various reasons, such as physiological restructuring of the bone and ligament apparatus or due to the presence of some pathological process in the body. The causal factors of lower back pain in the 4th week can be:

• Normally, this is due to changes in the bone-ligament apparatus, when the hormone relaxin is produced, which makes the connective tissues loose, resulting in increased elasticity, as well as the mobility of the pelvic bones. Thus, the body prepares for the upcoming birth.
• Excess weight that a woman gradually gains during pregnancy.
• Spinal pathology present before pregnancy (scoliosis, osteochondrosis).
• Inflammatory processes in the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Usually, kidney diseases are accompanied by urinary disorders and elevated temperature.

The threat of miscarriage may be accompanied by pain in the lower back and bloody discharge.

Thus, in the case of lumbar pain, the intensity of which does not subside, but increases and other symptoms are additionally noted, it is necessary to urgently contact a doctor in order to promptly identify the cause and prevent unwanted complications.

[ 22 ], [ 23 ], [ 24 ]

Temperature at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Often the temperature in the 4th week of pregnancy rises to subfebrile numbers, namely up to 37.3°C. Such a temperature can be observed both in the early stages and throughout the pregnancy. In the absence of any other symptoms (for example, headache, rhinitis, etc.), such a temperature is considered normal, due to:

• changes in metabolism towards its acceleration,
• changes in hormonal levels – increased production of the hormone progesterone, which affects the thermoregulation center in the brain,
• reducing immunity so that the woman’s body does not reject the embryo that is foreign to it.

An increase in temperature in the 4th week of pregnancy to 38° and above may be associated with some disease:

• ARI or flu,
• inflammatory diseases of internal organs (for example, pneumonia, pyelonephritis).

Self-medication at high temperature is strictly contraindicated, as it can seriously harm both the health of the woman and the health of the embryo, as this week the organs and systems laid down in the third week are intensively developing. Subsequently, malformations of certain organs, mental retardation, etc. may be noted. In addition to such complications, high temperature can provoke termination of pregnancy. Therefore, you should be very attentive to your condition, especially in conditions of high temperature, and promptly consult a doctor.

Ectopic pregnancy at 4 weeks

An ectopic pregnancy at 4 weeks is characterized by the same signs as a uterine pregnancy. It is also noted:

• delayed menstruation,
• emotional background disorder,
• changes in the sensitivity of the mammary glands and their enlargement,
• nausea and increased salivation may occur,
• changes in taste and intolerance to certain odors,
• increased basal temperature, etc.

The cause of an ectopic pregnancy is the inability of the fertilized egg to enter the uterine cavity due to obstruction of the fallopian tubes, as a result of which the egg is implanted in the fallopian tube. The cause of obstruction of the fallopian tubes may be:

• inflammatory processes in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, both as a result of non-specific infections (for example, after an abortion) and specific ones that are transmitted through sexual intercourse (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, etc.),
• operations on abdominal organs and pelvic organs that lead to adhesions,
• congenital underdevelopment of the fallopian tubes,
• hormonal disorders in women.

The risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy occurs:

• with increasing age (over 35 years),
• in women with endometriosis and chronic diseases of the genital organs,
• for smokers,
• if you have an intrauterine device,
• in case of congenital anomalies of the uterus and its tubes,
• tumors of internal organs.

It is almost impossible to determine an ectopic pregnancy on your own. An ectopic pregnancy is extremely dangerous for a woman's life. Around the fourth to sixth week of pregnancy, the embryo's villi grow into the fallopian tube, the embryo develops intensively, and a rupture of the fallopian tube may occur, which is accompanied by:

• bleeding into the abdominal cavity (if a large vessel is damaged, this is extremely dangerous due to the large loss of blood),
• sharp cramping pain in the lower abdomen,
• dizziness,
• paleness of the skin,
• loss of consciousness, etc.

In some situations, it is not the fallopian tube that ruptures, but the fertilized egg. In this case, the fertilized egg is expelled not into the uterus, but into the abdominal cavity - a tubal abortion. With such an abortion, dizziness, acute abdominal pain, weakness are also noted, but the symptoms develop more slowly than in the case of a ruptured tube. An imaginary well-being may occur, when all the symptoms disappear, and the woman thinks that everything has returned to normal, but bleeding continues into the abdominal cavity and this is very dangerous. With a slight suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy, as well as if the woman is at risk for an ectopic pregnancy, this is a reason to go to a doctor for a consultation and examination.

[ 25 ]

Miscarriage at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Miscarriage at 4 weeks of pregnancy most often begins with minor bloody discharge that gradually increases. The color of the bloody discharge can be from scarlet to dark red. Often such discharge is accompanied by spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, as well as pain in the lower back, and sometimes the body temperature may increase. Bloody discharge may contain tissue particles.

A miscarriage occurs over a period of time, from a few hours to a few days. The bleeding may be minor, but may continue for more than a few days.

Miscarriage in early pregnancy is often associated with genetic defects in the embryo that are incompatible with life. Miscarriage in early pregnancy can also occur as a result of some diseases in the woman, inadequate physical activity, use of medications, alcohol, etc.

If bloody discharge appears, accompanied by pain, weakness and an increase in temperature, you must immediately contact a doctor.

Bleeding at 4 weeks pregnant

Bleeding in the 4th week of pregnancy should be a serious warning sign and is a reason to consult a doctor. Short-term bleeding, in the form of a few drops, not accompanied by pain in the abdomen and lower back, an increase in temperature should not be particularly disturbing, this can be noted:

• after intercourse,
• after a gynecological examination.

Heavy bleeding that does not stop, but rather increases, contains tissue particles and is accompanied by a deterioration in the woman's general condition - weakness, pale skin, pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back, is a dangerous condition and requires immediate medical attention. Bleeding of this nature can occur with spontaneous miscarriage and complicated ectopic pregnancy.

[ 26 ], [ 27 ]

Periods at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Menstruation at 4 weeks of pregnancy, as a rule, is not observed. But in the early stages of pregnancy - the first weeks and even months, when the placenta is just developing, a slight release of hormones that suppress the menstrual function may be observed and at the appropriate time, minor bloody discharge may occur. In addition, discharge similar to menstruation at 4 weeks of pregnancy may be due to:

• ectopic pregnancy,
• frozen pregnancy,
• spontaneous miscarriage,
• cervical erosion,
• after a gynecological examination or sexual intercourse.

The occurrence of discharge resembling menstruation is a reason to visit a gynecologist for examination and further tactics, in order to prevent undesirable consequences for the health of the woman and the embryo.

Toxicosis in the 4th week of pregnancy

Toxicosis in the 4th week of pregnancy is not a rare occurrence, but it is not obligatory either. The occurrence of early toxicosis is associated with a number of reasons:

• with changes in a woman's hormonal background,
• with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract,
• with the entry of metabolic products of the fetus into the pregnant woman’s blood, which cause intoxication in her body,
• and there is also a hereditary predisposition (when the mother of a pregnant woman suffered from toxicosis, then, most likely, the daughter will also experience toxicosis).

Often, early toxicosis is observed until the placenta is formed (usually up to twelve weeks), which will protect the woman's body from the metabolic products of the embryo.

Most often, early toxicosis is observed during the first pregnancy; in subsequent pregnancies, the symptoms of toxicosis decrease or are absent.

Toxicosis in the 4th week of pregnancy most often manifests itself as nausea, sometimes vomiting, as well as increased salivation, intolerance to certain foods and/or odors.

Mild toxicosis is accompanied by morning sickness that goes away after breakfast or nausea that can last half a day and is sometimes accompanied by vomiting. Severe toxicosis is characterized by nausea throughout the day and night, and is accompanied by repeated vomiting, which requires medical attention to avoid dehydration and further complications of pregnancy.

The following will help alleviate the symptoms of toxicosis: breakfast with solid food, without getting out of bed; fractional meals throughout the day with high-calorie food (not fatty); consumption of chilled food and sufficient amounts of liquid.

Frozen pregnancy at 4 weeks

A frozen pregnancy at 4 weeks occurs for various reasons, namely:

• as a result of genetic abnormalities in the embryo that are incompatible with life,
• in case of hormonal disorders occurring in a woman’s body as a result of some disease or the use of medications,
• the presence of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, etc.),
• acute viral infections (flu, etc.),
• alcohol abuse, smoking,
• prolonged exposure to the sun,
• Rhesus conflict,
• frequent abortions,
• regular physical and nervous overstrain.

It is difficult to suspect a frozen pregnancy on your own, since signs of pregnancy can often still be observed. But you should be wary of:

• the appearance of bloody discharge,
• disappearance of signs of toxicosis,
• severe pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back,
• an unexplained increase in body temperature.

If such symptoms occur, a consultation and examination by a specialist is necessary, who will first conduct an ultrasound and determine the diagnosis.

Cold at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Many women can get a cold in the 4th week of pregnancy, especially if their immunity is weakened in the early stages. A cold without fever or chills is not dangerous. But if a high temperature appears, above 38°C, chills, pale skin, i.e. symptoms of intoxication, a cold becomes dangerous for both the pregnant woman (complications, such as pneumonia) and the embryo (impaired development, fading, miscarriage). In order not to expose the pregnant woman's body to colds, it is necessary to carry out a set of simple preventive measures:

• during the epidemic period of acute viral infections, try to avoid visiting places with large crowds of people,
• if there is a person with a cold in the pregnant woman’s environment, especially in the acute stage, it is advisable to isolate him for several days,
• apply saline solutions into the nasal passages in the form of drops or spray (Humor, Aqua Maris, Quix),
• in the place where the pregnant woman is located, frequent ventilation of the room is necessary,
• a sleep and wakefulness regime must be followed,
• frequent walks in the fresh air,
• rational and balanced nutrition with a high content of vegetables and fruits, microelements,
• if necessary, take vitamins for pregnant women (Vitrum prenatal, Pregnavit).

If a pregnant woman does develop a cold, especially with a fever, it is recommended to consult a doctor for appropriate recommendations. Self-medication should not be done, as this can negatively affect the development of the embryo, because not all medications can be taken during pregnancy.

Nausea at 4 weeks pregnant

Nausea in the 4th week of pregnancy can occur in more than half of women. Most often, it occurs in the morning on an empty stomach and disappears after eating, so it is recommended to eat a piece of bread or biscuit without getting out of bed, lie down for about fifteen minutes, and then get up in bulk. Sometimes nausea can bother for half a day, and in severe cases (which is rare) throughout the day and be accompanied by vomiting. To reduce the severity of nausea and eliminate it, it is recommended:

• eat small meals often,
• it is better to eat food chilled,
• eat more solid food,
• start breakfast in bed,
• food should be high in calories, but not fatty,
• drink enough still water,
• rest and get enough sleep,
• walk in the fresh air.
• These simple measures will help a pregnant woman reduce the severity of nausea and eliminate it.

Termination of pregnancy at 4 weeks

Termination of pregnancy at 4 weeks must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, independently dealing with this issue is dangerous for the health of the woman. Since only a doctor can assess the woman's condition, select a method of termination of pregnancy and control the entire process of termination. In the early stages, as a rule, a medical termination of pregnancy is carried out.

Medical abortion is the safest method of medical termination of pregnancy at an early stage. The following drugs are used for medical abortion: Mifolian, Mifeprex, Pencrofton, Mefigin, Mifepristone. Such abortion is carried out in several stages:

• At the initial stage, an examination, ultrasound and necessary laboratory blood tests are carried out, after which a drug is prescribed and the woman is monitored for one to two hours,
• At the next stage, after 36-48 hours of taking the drug, prostaglandins are prescribed, after which a miscarriage occurs and this is manifested by bloody discharge.

After a miscarriage, another ultrasound is performed, which confirms the complete absence of the fertilized egg in the uterine cavity and is performed after ten to fourteen days.

The advantages of medical termination of pregnancy are:

• minimal or no complications and proceeds like a normal period,
• there is no need to be hospitalized, i.e. you can lead an active lifestyle,
• the absence of instrumental intervention in the uterine cavity, which reduces the risk of infection,
• psychologically it is better tolerated.

Sex at 4 weeks pregnant

Sex in the 4th week of pregnancy is not a contraindication, and perhaps, on the contrary, will be very necessary for a woman, since at this stage libido increases. It is necessary to remember to observe intimate hygiene of both partners both before and after sex. Contraindications to having sex in the 4th week are bacterial sexual infections in the partner, as well as the presence of bloody discharge in the woman, abdominal pain and/or lower back pain.

Alcohol in 4 weeks of pregnancy

Alcohol is absolutely contraindicated in the 4th week of pregnancy, since all organs and systems are intensively developing at this stage. Alcohol has a toxic effect on the body of both the woman and the embryo. And the consequences of alcohol consumption, especially during the period of organ formation, can be disastrous (birth of a sick child).

[ 28 ], [ 29 ]

Nutrition in the 4th week of pregnancy

Nutrition in the 4th week of pregnancy should be complete and balanced. Food should be high-calorie, but not fatty and fried, steamed, boiled and should contain a sufficient amount of micro- and macroelements, fruits and vegetables, fermented milk products (kefir, cottage cheese, milk, yogurt), lean meats and fish.

Antibiotics at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Antibiotics are contraindicated in the 4th week of pregnancy, as they are dangerous for the embryo, especially at this stage, when all organs and systems are developing intensively. Unreasonable use of antibiotics in the 4th week can cause a developmental defect of one or another organ in the future child.

There are certain indications for the use of antibiotics, which are prescribed only by a doctor. Antibiotics can be used under the supervision of a doctor in the following cases: pyelonephritis, pneumonia and other purulent inflammations of internal organs, sepsis, bacterial sexually transmitted infections. Antibiotics are not used for colds and flu, since they act on bacteria, and flu is caused by viruses, this must be remembered.

There are antibiotics that are approved for use during pregnancy, but the 4th week is not the best time to use them.

[ 30 ], [ 31 ], [ 32 ], [ 33 ], [ 34 ], [ 35 ]

Flying at 4 weeks pregnant

Flying during the 4th week of pregnancy may be contraindicated. Since the woman's body adapts to new changes associated with hormonal changes. Also, toxicosis may interfere with flying, especially if the toxicosis is severe.

Contraindications to flying early are:

• repeated vomiting,
• bleeding,
• pain in the abdomen and lower back,
• anemia,
• pregnancy, after in vitro fertilization
• exacerbation of chronic diseases in pregnant women,
• defects and diseases of the genital organs in pregnant women.

4 weeks pregnant - pregnancy period it is better to stay close to home and in a normal environment. The best time for a vacation with flights is the second trimester of pregnancy (from the 14th to the 28th week).

[ 36 ]