Little buds are appearing 💛

Week 6 is a week many mums remember. Your little one is growing fast, and your body may be letting you know that something big is happening. Let's take a gentle look at both.

📌 Week 6 at a glance

• Trimester: First
• Baby's size: about the size of a pea (around 6 mm)
• Still to come: roughly 34 weeks (a typical pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks)

🌱 Your little one this week

At 6 weeks, your baby is still an embryo, about 6 mm long — roughly the size of a pea. Some people say it looks a little like a tadpole at this stage, with a curved body and a tiny tail.

Around this time, your baby's heart beats for the first time. It's tiny, and it's working hard already. Small buds are also appearing on the sides of the body, and these will slowly grow into arms and legs. The brain and nervous system are developing quickly, and the early beginnings of the eyes are forming on each side of the head.

A heartbeat is sometimes picked up on an early scan at this stage, but it's not something every mum is offered, and that's perfectly normal.

🌷 And how about you, Mum?

Many mums start to notice morning sickness around now. Despite the name, it can happen at any time of day, and it's very common in early pregnancy. It's thought to be linked to hormone changes, and it won't hurt your baby. Some mums feel only a little queasy, while others feel it more strongly. Both are part of the wide range of normal.

You might also notice tiredness, bloating, mood swings, tender breasts or needing the loo more often. If you don't feel much at all, that's fine too.

🍽️ Food for thought: protein

Protein is a building block for the body. It contributes to the growth of tissues, which is one reason it's so useful during pregnancy. If food aversions are getting in the way this week, that's very common, and small bites still count.

Everyday foods that contain protein include:

• Eggs
• Well-cooked chicken and fish
• Tofu and tempeh
• Beans and lentils (such as dhal)
• Milk and yoghurt

You don't have to eat any particular food. Choose what sounds good to you and sits well with your tummy. If you'd like personal guidance on food or supplements, your doctor, midwife or dietitian can help.

✨ Little things that may feel nice

• Many mums find that eating small amounts more often feels gentler than large meals
• Plain, simple foods often sit better when smells feel strong
• Sipping water or other fluids slowly through the day can be easier than big gulps
• Fresh air and an open window can make a stuffy room feel kinder

🩺 Coming up

Your first antenatal visit is a chance to ask anything on your mind, including questions about morning sickness. If it is making everyday life really difficult, your doctor or midwife can talk through ways to help. Many clinics will also discuss when your first scan might be, and timing can differ from place to place.

👨👩👧 Partner's corner

If mum is feeling queasy, strong cooking smells can be a lot. Cooking something she fancies, or opening a window, can be a kind gesture. Patience and a listening ear are lovely gifts this week.

❓ Quick questions

Is morning sickness only in the morning?
No. It can happen at any time of the day or night, which is why some mums call it all-day sickness.

Does morning sickness hurt my baby?
It can feel unpleasant, but it won't hurt your baby. If it's making daily life hard, your doctor or midwife is there to help.

💛 A little moment for the two of you

This week your baby's tiny heart began to beat, and you may not be able to feel a thing. But it's there, quietly doing its job.

Whatever today feels like for you, you're doing a wonderful job just by being here.

Hello, tiny heartbeat. 🦕

Sources & further reading

NHS — 6 weeks pregnant
NHS Week 6 pregnancy guide

Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) — Antenatal care
KKM maternal health and antenatal care

FirstDino shares general pregnancy information for education and comfort. It is not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Please speak with your doctor or midwife about your own health and care.