Important Development Is Underway
Your baby is tiny this week—about the size of a poppy seed—but important development is already underway.
Hormones are rising quickly, and you may begin noticing changes in how you feel. Fatigue, nausea, bloating, mood changes, or sore breasts can start showing up around this time.
If you suddenly feel unlike yourself, you're not imagining it. Your body is working hard.
Baby at Week 4
This week marks the beginning of the embryonic period, a time of rapid growth and development. Although baby is still incredibly small, important structures are already beginning to form.
The foundations for the brain, spinal cord, and major organs are starting to develop. The placenta and umbilical cord are also beginning to take shape, creating the support systems that will help nourish baby throughout pregnancy.
Why You Feel So Different Right Now
Hormone levels are rising rapidly to support pregnancy. These hormonal shifts affect nearly every system in the body and can influence energy levels, digestion, mood, and overall well-being.
Many women begin noticing fatigue as the body directs more energy toward supporting pregnancy. Nausea, bloating, breast tenderness, and emotional ups and downs may also begin to appear.
Common During Week 4
Fatigue
Nausea
Bloating
Breast tenderness
Mood changes
Food aversions
Increased sense of smell
Mild cramping
Small Things That May Help
If nausea is creeping in, try eating smaller meals more often and keeping easy snacks nearby. Many women find that having something simple to eat before becoming overly hungry can help manage symptoms.
Hydration, rest, and gentle movement can also support overall comfort during this stage of pregnancy.
Support During Pregnancy
Pregnancy-focused physical therapy is not only for pain. Many women benefit from support with posture, breathing mechanics, movement strategies, pelvic floor awareness, and overall comfort as pregnancy progresses.
Follow Along With Our Pelvic Health PT
If you'd like guided support for this week's movement and breathing strategies, you can follow along with our short therapist-led video here.
You're Doing Better Than You Think
Pregnancy can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Both emotions belong here.
There is a lot happening right now—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Even when things feel uncertain, your body is doing exactly what it needs to do.
Give yourself permission to rest, adjust expectations, and take things one day at a time. You're doing better than you think.
From Your Modern Woman Care Provider