Pregnancy Week 6: What to Expect
Baby's development, your body's changes, common symptoms, what to eat, and what to do this week.
Baby's development at week 6
Baby's heart is now beating at around 110-150 beats per minute, often visible as a flicker on a transvaginal ultrasound. The brain is dividing into its main regions (forebrain, midbrain, hindbrain), and basic facial features start to form — small dark spots where eyes will be, tiny indentations for ear canals. Limb buds become more defined, hand and foot plates begin to appear, and the umbilical cord starts forming between baby and the placenta. The intestines start developing inside the umbilical cord (they will move into baby's abdomen later).
What's happening in your body
hCG continues to rise (still doubling every 48-72 hours, peaking around weeks 9-10). The hormones that drive nausea and fatigue are at their early peak. Your uterus is now about the size of a small pear. The cervix produces a thicker mucus plug that helps protect baby from infection — it will stay in place until labor. You may notice your sense of smell is dramatically sharper, sometimes detecting things others cannot.
Common symptoms at week 6
Nausea intensifies for many. Frequent urination continues. Strong fatigue, often hitting hardest in the afternoon. Breast soreness, sometimes with visible blue veins. Bloating that can look like an early bump (it is mostly hormones, not baby yet). Food aversions become very specific — coffee, certain meats, leafy greens, and onions are common triggers. Mood swings and emotional sensitivity. Mild headaches as blood volume rises.
When to call your provider
Bright red bleeding (not just spotting), severe one-sided pelvic pain, or shoulder-tip pain — these can be signs of ectopic pregnancy and need same-day attention. Cramping with bleeding, or any passage of tissue, also warrants a call. Severe vomiting that prevents you from keeping any liquids down for a day or more is "hyperemesis gravidarum" and may need IV fluids or medication.
How to feel better this week
Eat protein with every meal, even small ones — protein blunts the nausea peaks better than carbs alone. Salty snacks (pretzels, pickles, broth) can help. Cold foods often smell less, which helps if hot food smells trigger nausea. Sleep when you can; the fatigue is real and is the body building a major new organ (the placenta). Wear a supportive bra — even a soft sleep bra can ease breast soreness. Mention any meds, supplements, or herbal teas to your provider at the first visit — many are not pregnancy-safe.
Nutrition focus for week 6
Vitamin B6 from food (chickpeas, salmon, chicken, potatoes) and supplements helps nausea. Eat protein every 2-3 hours. Stay hydrated with small sips throughout the day — try popsicles, ice chips, or electrolyte drinks if water tastes off. Iron needs are climbing; pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C (orange, bell pepper) for better absorption.
For your partner
This is when many partners first really feel the reality of the pregnancy. If your partner is sick, take over driving and grocery runs. Do not eat strongly aromatic foods around them. Be patient with the emotional shifts — most are hormonal and pass.
This week's to-do
Confirm the first prenatal appointment date. Stock the house with easy-to-eat foods that survived the smell test (plain bread, crackers, broth, smoothies, applesauce).
Is this normal?
Many people share the news with very close family this week — others wait until week 12. Both are fine. There is no "right" time, only what is right for your support system.
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