Week 3 of Pregnancy
During the third week of pregnancy, the embryo develops from a morula into a blastocyst, a fluid-filled cluster of approximately 100 cells, and begins implanting in the uterine lining. The portion that will later form the placenta starts secreting human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), resulting in a positive early pregnancy test. Menstruation ceases this week, and an early pregnancy test can confirm pregnancy. Even if appetite is reduced, it is crucial to maintain adequate nutrition to support the embryo’s healthy development.

How Can Expectant Mothers Achieve Balanced Nutrition?

• 1. Opt for Smaller, Frequent Meals with Light, Digestible Foods
  Overeating or consuming rich foods in early pregnancy may increase digestive discomfort or nausea. Choose smaller, frequent meals with light, easily digestible options such as porridge, dry toast, steamed buns, or soda crackers.
• 2. Increase Intake of Vitamin-Rich Foods
  Early pregnancy requires sufficient vitamins and trace elements, particularly folic acid, vitamin B2, and vitamin B6. These can be obtained from fresh vegetables, milk, soy products, meat, fish, eggs, walnuts, peanuts, seaweed, and dried shrimp.
• 3. Diversify Diet and Avoid Picky Eating
  Many women experience reduced appetite or altered taste preferences in early pregnancy. Cater to these preferences while avoiding excessive dietary restrictions to ensure a varied diet that provides comprehensive nutrition.

Week 4 of Pregnancy
This week, the fertilized egg completes implantation, and the embryo begins growing within the uterus. Expectant mothers undergo significant internal changes, though external signs, such as changes in body shape or weight, may not yet be noticeable. Some may experience mild discomfort, fatigue, or symptoms resembling a cold. Beyond physical changes, psychological adjustments are common, with concerns about pre-pregnancy medication, alcohol consumption, or hair dyeing. Generally, an unhealthy fertilized egg will not implant successfully, so focusing on pregnancy precautions from this point forward can ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Precautions During Pregnancy

• 1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
  Hormonal changes in early pregnancy may alter dietary habits. Choose fresh, light, and easily digestible foods, such as vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables, and high-quality protein sources like milk and eggs. Avoid foods containing artificial colours, additives, or preservatives.
• 2. Avoid Self-Medication
  Early pregnancy is a critical period for fetal development, and improper medication may cause congenital anomalies. If ill or feverish, use physical cooling methods like warm compresses or cooling patches and consult a doctor before taking any medication.
• 3. Avoid Hair Dyeing
  Minimize exposure to chemical substances, such as hair dyes, during pregnancy, as they may penetrate the skin and reach the uterus, increasing the risk of fetal abnormalities. If hair was dyed before pregnancy, consider trimming it short and washing frequently to reduce residual chemical absorption.
• 4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
  Abstain from smoking (including second-hand smoke) and alcohol during preconception and early pregnancy. Smoking increases the risk of congenital deformities and premature birth, while alcohol may lead to miscarriage or birth defects.
• 5. Limit Cold Beverages and Caffeine
  Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine-containing products (e.g., cola, coffee) to prevent sleep disturbances. Reduce intake of cold or high-sugar foods.
• 6. Avoid Sexual Intercourse
  The embryo is fragile in early pregnancy, so refrain from sexual intercourse to prevent the risk of miscarriage.