Week 3 is an exciting time in pregnancy; your egg is changing into a cell, a zygote. The cell is working hard, dividing, and moving towards the uterus. Once the cell implants into the uterus, you are considered pregnant! Congratulations!
But what else is happening? What changes is your body going through? What symptoms are there to look out for? We are here to tell all! Keep reading for a detailed guide to your third week of pregnancy and what to expect.
What’s Coming Up In The Article?
- What Does It Mean To Be Three Weeks Pregnant?
- Can You Detect Pregnancy At Week 3?
- What Are The Common Symptoms When You Are Three Weeks Pregnant?
- How Big Is A Baby At Three Weeks Pregnant?
- Should You Get An Ultrasound At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Are The Common Miscarriage Symptoms At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 3 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Body Changes Should You Expect At Three Weeks Pregnant?
- What Should I Do If I Think I Am Pregnant?
Key Points
- The third week of pregnancy sees the fertilised egg leave the fallopian tube and head to the uterus
- The egg becomes a cell that starts to divide with DNA from both the mother and father
- The cell is still too small for most ultrasounds to pick up
- The early detection pregnancy tests might deliver a positive test result, especially if you have missed a period
- The most common symptoms this week are implantation bleeding, bloating, and tiredness
What Does It Mean To Be Three Weeks Pregnant?
In the third week of your pregnancy, the fertilised egg will implant into the uterine lining. The fertilised egg produces one cell with genetic material from you and the baby’s father.
The cell, or zygote, travels to the uterus. As it moves, it divides, becoming eight cells. These are solid balls until they reach the uterus, hollowing out, becoming a blastocyst and implanting into the uterus lining.
When this happens, you are considered to be pregnant. Pregnancy is calculated from the date of your last period, putting you at three weeks pregnant at this point.
Now that a fertilised egg is implanted in your uterine lining, hormones will change in your body. You will stop ovulating and miss your next period, usually the first sign for women that they could be pregnant.
Can You Detect Pregnancy At Week 3?
It is better to wait until you have missed your period to test for pregnancy, but some women can detect a pregnancy at week three. Women whose cycles are shorter than 28 days might have luck, as they could potentially miss their next period during week three.
On occasion, some women have also detected a pregnancy at week three if they have high levels of human chorionic gonadotropin, hCG, which is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. hCG is often called the pregnancy hormone and is what most pregnancy tests use to detect pregnancy, so if your levels are high enough, you could see a positive test result!
You can test for a pregnancy in two ways: home pregnancy tests and blood tests. Let’s learn more about them now.
Home Pregnancy Tests
These days, home pregnancy tests are very accurate. Some on the market can detect a pregnancy before you miss your period, claiming they can spot a pregnancy ten days before you miss it! Using one of these early pregnancy tests could provide you with a positive test result at week three of your pregnancy.
You can purchase a home pregnancy test from drugstores or online, but early detection tests tend to be more expensive.
Blood Tests
Blood tests also offer an accurate result. They measure the pregnancy hormone hCG levels in your blood to tell you quickly if you are pregnant. The blood test is performed by a healthcare provider, like a doctor, and will usually give you a rapid response.
These tests can offer early results and are considered accurate results. Speak to your doctor if you want a pregnancy blood test.
What Are The Common Symptoms When You Are 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Light bleeding, cramps, bloating, and spotting are the most common symptoms during the third week of pregnancy. The bleeding is referred to as implantation and generally causes a small amount of bleeding as the egg latches onto your uterus.
Some women do not notice symptoms at this early stage of pregnancy, so don’t panic if you have no symptoms!
Is There Any Change To HCG Levels At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Your human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels will be higher this week. While the levels are higher, it might not be enough to provide a positive pregnancy test result.
Should I Expect Any Cramping At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Cramping can occur during week 3 of pregnancy. Feeling cramps during early pregnancy is normal, so there is no need to panic.
Will I Experience Morning Sickness At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Most women do not experience morning sickness at week 3 of their pregnancy, but it can happen to some women.
Some women do experience nausea at this stage, though.
Will My Breasts Feel Tender At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
It is common for breasts to feel tender or full during week 3 of your pregnancy. Many women notice their nipples are very tender, too.
Will I Have Any Food Cravings At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Food cravings can occur at any point during pregnancy, so that you might have them during week three.
Will I Pass Urine More Frequently At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Passing urine more frequently can happen during week three of pregnancy, but it typically happens
Will I Feel Tiredness Or Fatigue At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Tiredness or fatigue are common symptoms during week three of a pregnancy. Many women report feeling tired or exhausted, often not knowing they are pregnant at this stage!
Will I Feel Bloated At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Bloating is a common symptom at three weeks pregnant.
Will I Get A Headache At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Headaches can be expected during the initial weeks of pregnancy, including three weeks pregnant.
Will I Experience A Metallic Taste In My Mouth At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Many women report a metallic taste in their mouth at three weeks pregnant.
Will I Have A Heightened Sense Of Smell At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
A heightened sense of smell is common at three weeks pregnant. This can also be a dislike or sensitivity to tastes and smells, commonly coffee.
Can You Experience Shortness Of Breath At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Shortness of breath is an unlikely symptom to experience at three weeks pregnant. You should contact a doctor if you experience shortness of breath at this point.
Is It Normal To Get Diarrhea At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Diarrhea is one of the typical early pregnancy symptoms and can be experienced during week three of a pregnancy.
Can You Get Vaginal Discharge At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
You might notice a thin, white vaginal discharge. This can happen throughout your entire pregnancy and is normal.
Will I Experience Lower Back Pain At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Lower back pain typically occurs from week five onwards.
Will I Experience Mood Swings At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Mood swings can occur at three weeks pregnant. Not all women suffer from mood swings while they are pregnant. Changes in pregnancy hormones are attributed to mood swings.
Is Spotting Normal At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Some light spotting is normal at three weeks pregnant. Spotting at this stage is known as implantation bleeding and can occur during week three of your pregnancy.
What Other Symptoms Are Common When 3 Weeks Pregnant?
The following symptoms are also common when you are three weeks pregnant.
- Vivid dreams
- Period-like pains
- No period (if your cycle is shorter than 28 days)
How Big Is A Baby At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
At three weeks pregnant, the zygote is smaller than a grain of salt! It is still dividing and forming and is moving constantly at this point. It can be hard to imagine how small it is right now, with many women unaware that they are pregnant at this stage.
Can You Feel The Baby At Three Weeks Pregnant?
No, you cannot feel the baby at three weeks pregnant. You might feel some cramps at this point, similar to those on your period, but you will not feel the baby moving as it has not developed into a baby yet.
You might also feel bloating at this stage, with your stomach possibly feeling hard and uncomfortable sometimes.
Should You Get An Ultrasound At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
An ultrasound is unlikely to show anything at this stage, so we don’t recommend an ultrasound. You might notice the uterine lining has thickened, but there won’t be much else for your doctor to see.
The zygote is currently smaller than a grain of salt; imagine trying to find that on an ultrasound! We recommend waiting a little longer to have an ultrasound, with most women having an ultrasound around the eight to twelve-week mark.
Are There Any Other Tests Or Scans I Need To Consider At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
At this stage, there aren’t any other scans or tests to consider. You could take an early-detection pregnancy test if you wish, but be mindful that a negative result now doesn’t mean you aren’t pregnant. A test after you have missed your period will be more accurate.
What Are Common Miscarriage Symptoms At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
The common signs of miscarriage at week three are bleeding and cramps. The bleeding might be light or quite heavy, with the abdominal cramps ranging in severity from woman to woman.
At this stage in your pregnancy, the fertilised egg, uterine lining, and other cells will pass through your body as a period would. Some women don’t know they are pregnant at this early stage of pregnancy and will assume this is a heavy or early period.
What Are The Chances Of Miscarriage At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Chances of miscarriage during the first few weeks are about 30%, according to an article published in Oxford Academia. The chances vary from woman to woman, depending on other factors such as pre-existing health conditions.
How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 3 Weeks Pregnant?
The best way to calculate your due date at three weeks pregnant is to use the date of your last period. Pregnancy is calculated based on the first day of your last period and an average pregnancy of 40 weeks, or 280 days.
To calculate your due day, count 280 days or 40 weeks from the date of your last period. This will give you a rough indication of when your baby is due. It’s worth noting that due dates are not an exact science; many babies are born before or after their due date, so don’t panic if your baby doesn’t arrive right on time.
What Body Changes Should You Expect At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
What Is The Body Doing During This Process?
Your fertilized egg has left the fallopian tube and reached your uterus. The cell it forms, the zygote, is now moving and dividing, slowly starting to develop. It will implant into your thickened uterine lining at week three, becoming a pregnancy.
Your body might show some early pregnancy signs, like tender breasts or tiredness. There will also be some hormonal changes as the hCG levels in your body start to rise. Your body stops ovulating and will stop releasing eggs, with a shift in your hormone levels here, too.
You are unlikely to notice any physical changes like a pregnant belly, but common symptoms like spotting and bloating might be happening to you. Women whose cycles are shorter than 28 days might notice a missed period, but this varies from woman to woman.
What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Whether you have missed your period or not, there are some precautions you can take outlined below.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are essential for ensuring you and your baby get all the necessary nutrients. A folic acid supplement is recommended here, with a dosage of 400 mcg. You can also take supplements or a generic prenatal vitamin that contains iron and calcium.
Avoid Alcohol And Tobacco
Drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco are incredibly dangerous during pregnancy and have increased the risk of several health conditions for your unborn baby. According to an article in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, smoking has been linked to the increased risk of over 20 states for babies, including Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID).
You should avoid both smoking and drinking during your pregnancy and reach out to healthcare providers if you need help with them.
Maintain A Healthy And Balanced Diet
Try to eat a healthy and balanced diet during your pregnancy. Start in your first trimester (the first twelve weeks of pregnancy), and do your best to maintain it. A healthy and balanced diet will give you and your baby the necessary nutrients.
Keep Hydrated
You want to stay as hydrated as possible during pregnancy. Increase your water intake to roughly six to eight cups a day. Cut down on sugary and caffeinated drinks, too.
Allow Time To Rest
With fatigue being a common symptom during week three of your pregnancy, you want to allow yourself to rest. Ensure you sleep eight hours a day, and look where you can add some breaks or moments to rest during your day.
Manage Stress Levels
Pregnancy can be stressful, but it’s essential to manage your stress levels for your and your baby’s health. Try meditation, deep breathing, or other relaxation techniques to help manage stress.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about what’s best for you and your baby.
Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
The following foods should be avoided during the first trimester of your pregnancy, including week three.
- Processed meats
- Raw sprouts
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Raw or undercooked eggs
- Soft cheese
- Unpasteurised milk
- Seafood with a high mercury content
Are There Any Drinks I Should Avoid At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid all alcoholic drinks and limit your caffeine intake. A doctor or midwife can help you calculate how much caffeine you can have daily.
Are There Any Supplements I Should Avoid At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Avoid supplements that are not appropriate for pregnant people to take. You should also avoid any supplements not approved by your doctor.
Can I Exercise While 3 Weeks Pregnant?
You can still exercise as usual at three weeks pregnant but do so within your energy levels. Don’t force yourself when you feel exhausted; prioritise rest instead.
Is It Safe To Travel When 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Yes, it is safe to travel at three weeks pregnant. Before travelling abroad, check if there are vaccinations that you need or any advisories for pregnant women that you need to be aware of.
Are There Any Activities I Should Avoid At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
The activities listed below should be avoided when you are three weeks pregnant:
- Acupuncture
- Hot tubs
- Massage
- Saunas
- Steam rooms
- Whirlpools
Is It Safe To Have Sex When 3 Weeks Pregnant?
Yes, it is safe to have sex at three weeks pregnant.
How Should I Sleep At 3 Weeks Pregnant?
You might notice that you sleep more when you are three weeks pregnant. Most women report feeling tired, so you might sleep for longer or have a nap during the day you didn’t before.
What Position Is It Safe To Sleep In When 3 Weeks Pregnant?
You can sleep in any position that feels comfortable, but it can be beneficial to practice side sleeping, which is the healthiest position to sleep in as your pregnancy progresses.
What Should You Do If You Think You Are Pregnant?
You should do a few things if you think you are pregnant; they are listed below.
Take A Pregnancy Test
You can purchase an early-detection pregnancy test from your local drugstore. Look for ones that can tell you if you are pregnant before you miss your period, as these will work for a three-week pregnancy.
You can also wait until you miss your period to take the test if you prefer. Another option is to ask the doctor for a blood test to find out if you are pregnant.
Make Some Lifestyle Changes
You can also start making some changes to your lifestyle. These are handy if you are preparing for a pregnancy and include eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and stopping drinking. You can also access help through your healthcare providers; don’t be afraid to reach out.
Get Support
Pregnancy can be difficult for many women, so don’t do it alone! Whether you think you are pregnant or are trying to conceive, you will need a support system around you to offer reassurance, a safe space to vent, or a friendly face when you need it.
Your friends and family can make a good support system, and other mums to be in your local area. There are groups on social media that you can join to provide extra support.
Final Thoughts On Week 3 Pregnancy
Week three of your pregnancy is a week of big changes! Your fertilised egg is slowly evolving and is bedding into your uterine lining. While there might be some bleeding at this stage, rest assured that it is normal. Don’t forget to speak to a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
You might feel more tired than usual this week, but remember, your body is working hard, and your hormone levels are changing – be kind to yourself.