Your Baby's Development at 6 Weeks

What Are My Baby’s Weight and Size at 6 Weeks?

Because babies’ legs are curled up against the torso for much of a pregnancy, it’s hard to get a full-length measurement. That’s why babies are measured from the “crown to rump” (or the top of the head to the bottom the buttocks) rather than from head to toe. This week your baby weighs about .04 ounces and measures .08 to 0.2 inches (2 to 5 millimeters) from crown to rump! Every baby is different, so exact measurements are hard to say, but at 6 weeks your baby is about the size of a pea.

Development Milestones at 6 Weeks

By week 6, your baby's brain and nervous system are developing quickly. Optic vesicles (ves-ick-KULS), which later form the eyes, have already developed on the sides of the head. So have the passageways that will make up the inner ear. Your baby's heart will begin to beat around this time and might even be detected on an ultrasound test. The beginnings of the digestive and respiratory systems are forming, too. Small buds that will grow into your baby's arms and legs also appear this week.

Your Body When You’re 6 Weeks Pregnant

Pregnancy Symptoms at 6 Weeks

Unpleasant pregnancy symptoms might hit with full force this week. It’s common to have:

• Tender, aching breasts. A cold compress, supportive bra, or a warm shower can help relieve pain.
• Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness). Despite its name, morning sickness can happen at any time day.
• Extra urination (peeing). Changes in hormone levels and in your body (such as your kidneys working extra hard to flush out wastes) can make you urinate (pee) more.

First Prenatal Visit

Most of the time, your first prenatal visit will be scheduled for around 10 weeks into your pregnancy. But you will be seen earlier if you have concerns or are considered “high risk” (for example, you are older than 35 or have a history of pregnancy complications).

If you go this week, your health care provider will confirm the pregnancy, estimate your due date, perform a physical exam and any needed prenatal tests. You may also get a prenatal ultrasound. Your provider may discuss prenatal vitamins, lifestyle guidance to help keep you healthy, how to handle unpleasant symptoms, and address any questions you have.