Understanding the First Trimester: A Look Inside the Womb
Empowered Education from Open Arms Real Choices Clinic
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we’re all about empowered education—especially when it comes to helping women understand their pregnancy journey. Whether your pregnancy is planned or unexpected, knowing what’s happening in your body can provide both peace and confidence. In this post, we’ll focus on the unplanned pregnancy first trimester, helping you understand how your baby develops in those early, crucial weeks.
What is the First Trimester?
The first trimester describes the period right after conception up until 12 weeks (or three months) gestation. For women facing an unplanned pregnancy, the first trimester can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a time of incredible development and discovery. Here’s what’s happening in the womb—week by week.
MONTH ONE – Weeks 1 through 4
Within 24 hours of conception, the fertilized egg (also known as the blastocyst) rapidly divides into multiple cells. It begins its journey down the fallopian tube, eventually implanting into the uterine lining (endometrium).
By Week 3:
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The blastocyst becomes an embryo.
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A protective amniotic sac begins forming around the embryo.
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The placenta begins to develop, functioning as a lifeline between mom and baby.
By Week 4:
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A tiny heart tube begins to beat—up to 65 times per minute!
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A small face begins to form, with dark eye circles, a developing mouth, jaw, and throat.
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Blood cells are forming, and circulation begins.
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The first nerve cells appear.
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Baby’s size: about ¼ inch (smaller than a grain of rice)
MONTH TWO – Weeks 5 through 8
This period is especially vital in the unplanned pregnancy first trimester, as many women begin to experience early pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness or fatigue, often before they’ve even confirmed the pregnancy.
At this stage:
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The embryo is now called a fetus.
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A heartbeat may be detected around Week 6.
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Ears, fingers, and toes begin to form.
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The brain, spinal cord, and major organs start taking shape.
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Bones begin replacing soft cartilage.
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Baby’s size: about 1 inch long
MONTH THREE – Weeks 9 through 13
By the end of the first trimester, the baby is fully formed!
Here’s what’s happening:
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Arms, legs, fingers, and toes are fully developed.
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Nails begin forming.
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The baby opens and closes fists and mouth.
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Tooth buds form beneath the gums.
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Reproductive organs begin to form, although determining sex may still be difficult.
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Baby’s size: around 4 inches long
Facing the First Trimester of an Unplanned Pregnancy
Navigating an unplanned pregnancy in the first trimester can be emotional and uncertain. You may be experiencing physical changes while also working through difficult decisions. Know this: you are not alone.
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we’re here to offer accurate information, caring support, and judgment-free guidance during this pivotal time. From confirming your pregnancy to offering education and relationship support, we are here for you every step of the way.
Need Support in Your First Trimester?
If you’re in the first trimester of an unplanned pregnancy, schedule a free appointment with our compassionate team today. We’ll walk with you through your options, offer resources for support, and ensure you’re not facing this journey alone.
📞 Call us at 208-667-5433 or 📅 Schedule Online
