7 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby continues on a rapid growth pattern. The digestive track and lungs are now more fully developed. The tail is clearly visible and the umbilical cord has gown into place. The facial features continue to develop. Pigmentation emerges in the baby’s eyes. The nostrils and the formation of the mouth also appear this week. The baby measures nearly ½ an inch and is about the size of a bean.

Gender

The genital begins to form during the seventh week of pregnancy. The gonads will develop onto male organs (the testes) or female organs (the ovaries.) The sex of your baby is predetermined before it even starts to develop. You will have to wait a few more week, however, to find out the sex of your baby, if you are interested in knowing.

Discomfort Continues

Your days of morning sickness may taper off as the weeks go on, but most women still have plenty to add to their discomfort. Having indigestion and feeling dizzy and lightheaded are among common complaints at this stage of pregnancy. Some people believe that a baby with a full head of hair will cause the mother-to-be to experience frequent heartburn. A cold glass of milk or chewing on a Tums may provide temporary relief.

Cramping and Spotting

You may experience slight cramping and spotting as the embryo firmly plants itself into your uterus. Most women complain about a little pain in their lower belly at this point. It is nothing to be concerned about and should not be confused with miscarriages or other problems with the baby.

Mucous Plug

Another development this week is the forming of the mucous plug. This plug forms in the opening of the cervix and acts as a protective barrier for your uterus to keep the womb safe. Down the road, losing your mucous plug can be the first sign of readiness for delivery.