Week 4: Touchdown—Implantation
Baby is about the size of Poppy seed (0.5mm)
The blastocyst implants into the uterine wall, triggering hCG production—the hormone detected by pregnancy tests. The outer cells become the placenta; inner cells become the embryo.
Implantation may cause light spotting. Progesterone remains elevated. A sensitive pregnancy test may show positive by week's end.
What is important now
If positive test, schedule first prenatal appointment. Continue prenatal vitamins. Avoid alcohol and NSAIDs.
Common symptoms
- heavy bleeding with clots — contact provider
Wellness this week.
Nutrition
Early embryo support
- Continue folic acid 400-800mcg
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Include iron-rich foods
- Consume adequate protein
Exercise
Movement
Continue normal exercise routine
Sleep
7-9 hours
Position: Any comfortable position
· Progesterone may increase sleepiness—honor rest needs
Mental wellness
Mindfulness
A positive test opens a flood of emotions. It's okay to feel everything at once.
“Your body is creating something extraordinary at the cellular level.”
Your timeline.
Week 6
In 2 weeks- routine
Checkpoint 1 — Mutterpass may be issued upon heartbeat confirmation
Week 19
In 15 weeks- routineWeeks 19–22
Checkpoint 2 — Screening Ultrasound
Choice between a basic biometric scan or detailed organ scan. Measures head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and checks placental position.
GoalAssess fetal anatomy and growth, check for structural abnormalities, and verify placental location.
Week 28
In 24 weeks- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM screening
- routine
Checkpoint 2 — Rhogam if Rh-negative
Week 29
In 25 weeks- routineWeeks 29–32
Checkpoint 3 — Screening Ultrasound
Third and final routine ultrasound. Assesses fetal growth, position (cephalic/breech), amniotic fluid volume, and placental function.
GoalConfirm appropriate growth trajectory and baby's position for delivery planning.
Week 35
In 31 weeks- self pay igelWeeks 35–37
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Testing — Self-pay/IGeL
Rectovaginal swab to screen for Group B Streptococcus colonization. If positive, IV antibiotics are given during labor to prevent neonatal infection.
GoalIdentify GBS carriers to enable prophylactic treatment during delivery.
Safety: Light spotting can be normal implantation bleeding. Heavy bleeding warrants provider contact.
Your journey, your rhythm.
Track your pregnancy week by week with gentle, personalized guidance.