Week 6 Pregnancy

First Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

6 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the first trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a lentil.
Routine care continues.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 6 weeks pregnant and in your first trimester. Your baby is about the size of a lentil. This week's key development: A Flickering Heartbeat. NHS note: Routine care continues.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 5

Week 7

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a lentil.

A Flickering Heartbeat — At an early scan this week, you might see and hear your baby's heartbeat for the very first time. Tiny arm and leg buds are forming, and facial features are beginning their delicate development. Fatigue may feel overwhelming — your body is building a placenta from scratch.

Lentil

Approx. 0.6cm

Your Symptoms

Nausea
Sore breasts
Bloating
Frequent trips to the toilet

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Routine care continues. If you have any bleeding or severe pain, contact your local Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU).

Practical Advice for Week 6

Nutrition

Continue folic acid and vitamin D.
Stay hydrated — dehydration can worsen nausea and headaches.
Eat little and often rather than three large meals.
Include vitamin C-rich foods (oranges, peppers, strawberries) to help absorb iron.

Exercise

Swimming is excellent — the water supports your body and feels wonderful.
Continue pelvic floor exercises — aim for 3 sets of 10 squeezes per day.
Avoid lying flat on your back for extended periods during exercise.
Prenatal yoga classes are a great way to stay flexible and meet other expecting parents.

Wellbeing

Your body is building an entire organ (the placenta) — the tiredness is real and justified.
If you have severe nausea or vomiting, speak to your GP — hyperemesis gravidarum is treatable.
Keep communication open with your partner — pregnancy affects both of you.
A warm (not hot) bath before bed can help with sleep.

Preparation

If you have any bleeding or severe pain, contact your local Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU).
Check whether your employer has an occupational health team for pregnancy support.
Start reading about the different types of birth options available in the UK.
Think about whether you want combined screening at your dating scan (weeks 11–14).

Tip of the Week

Ginger tea or biscuits can help settle a queasy stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 6

How many months is 6 weeks pregnant?

At 6 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 1 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 6 weeks?

At 6 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a lentil (about 0.6cm). At an early scan this week, you might see and hear your baby's heartbeat for the very first time. Tiny arm and leg buds are forming, and facial features are beginning their delicate development. Fatigue may feel overwhelming

What are the common symptoms at 6 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include nausea, sore breasts, bloating, frequent trips to the toilet. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 6 weeks in the first trimester?

Yes, 6 weeks falls within the first trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 6 weeks?

Routine care continues. If you have any bleeding or severe pain, contact your local Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU).