Pregnancy Week by Week

6 Weeks Pregnant

34 Weeks to Go!

0.2

inches

0.01

ounces

Baby is as long as an apple seed

By Lauren Barth,

Associate Content Director, Lifecycle|

Updated June 9, 2025

Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD

Fact Checked by Shannon Simcox

In this article:

Key takeaways Video highlights 3D anatomy views Baby's development Pregnancy symptoms Your body and belly Tips for week 6 Wins, challenges and wisdom Frequently asked questions Checklist for week 6

Key Takeaways at 6 Weeks Pregnant

Prenatal visit: Baby’s embryonic heartbeat is most likely detectable at this point. If your doctor gives you an ultrasound at that all-important first visit, you’ll hopefully be able to see (and hear) that pitter-patter activity.
Symptoms: Things are getting real! You’re likely experiencing morning sickness, extreme fatigue or other unpleasant early pregnancy symptoms. Do your best to rest and practice as much self-care as you can.
Development: It’s only been a few short weeks, but that embryo is looking more and more like a baby every day. They’re growing by leaps and bounds, developing complex organs and regulatory systems.

At week six, pregnancy is still new to you, so it’s normal to feel a little emotional. Add to that some pretty uncomfortable early pregnancy symptoms (which include hormone fluctuations that can feel like PMS—on steroids!), and it’s understandable to feel uncertain. That’s probably part of why you have 40 weeks to adjust to pregnancy. Of course, it’s also because baby needs all that time to get all their working parts in order.

For me, at 6 weeks pregnant, morning sickness really reared its ugly head for the first time. And I’m sorry to say, it didn’t really disappear until a few weeks into my second trimester. Basically, for two straight months, I’d wake up, throw up, rally and repeat. So if you’re in this queasy boat, know you’re not alone and that this phase will pass (I promise). In the meantime, for more updates on what’s happening with you and baby now and throughout your pregnancy, sign up for The Bump pregnancy week-by-week newsletter emails.

Video Highlights at 6 Weeks

Watch Week 6 Highlights

3D Views: My Baby, My Body

See their progress for yourself with our 3D interactive tool.

Baby at Week 6

So what’s going on inside your 6-week pregnant belly? Well, many of the crucial areas of baby development have already started. Baby's circulating blood with an increasingly sophisticated circulatory system. The neural tube, which forms baby’s early brain and spine, is also closing. And the heart that has divided into four chambers and will start to beat this week.

While that curled up C-shaped little pea-size body still has a wee tail, it’s growing and developing fast. Baby now has an optic ventricle, which will eventually become the eyes, while passageways that’ll make up the inner ear are also starting to form. There are little limb buds that will become the chubby arms and legs you won’t want to stop kissing. Baby might be wiggling their paddle-like hands and feet. Facial features are beginning to form too (more on that soon!).

How big is baby at 6 weeks?

At 6 weeks pregnant, baby is the size of an apple seed. The average embryo at week six is about .2 inches and will double in size again next week. Wow!

What does baby look like at 6 weeks?

Your 6-week embryo is about to get cuter too, as facial features are beginning to take shape. With a sprouting nose, eyes, ears, chin and cheeks, baby is starting to look more, well, baby-like.

6-week ultrasound

If you’ve let your doctor know you’re 6 weeks pregnant, they may have asked you to go in for your first prenatal appointment right away, but more likely, they may have told you to wait a few weeks. In fact, the first prenatal checkup is usually at about 8 or 9 weeks. So unless yours is a high-risk pregnancy, you probably won’t have a 6-week ultrasound.

That said, if you do have an ultrasound this week, the doctor might be able to see a fetal pole or fetal heartbeat—a clear sign that you’ve got an embryo developing in there. However, if the doctor doesn't detect this, don’t panic—you might not be as far along as you thought. They’ll probably ask you to come back in a few days or a week for another ultrasound.

And, yes, if you are 6 weeks pregnant with twins, you’ll likely be able to see two distinct gestational sacs or yolk sacs on the ultrasound at this point.

While you wait for your doctor’s appointment, you probably have a million questions on your mind. Write them down so you have them ready to ask your OB at your first prenatal visit. (Until then, we hope we’ve answered—and can continue to answer—a bunch for you.)

Being pregnant among the smells of New York City was a gag—literally. Every whiff of every subway, garbage pile or taxi-cab interior had me racing for a toilet (or, at least, a discreet street corner).

Lauren Barth

Associate content director at The Bump and mom of three

Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 6

Because it’s still early in your pregnancy, you may not yet be experiencing symptoms—at this point, some women are terribly nauseous, while others feel almost nothing. At 6 weeks pregnant, either is normal, but the most common 6 weeks pregnant symptoms include:

Fatigue

Of all the 6 weeks pregnant symptoms, this one will have you falling on your face! If you’re wondering why you’re feeling so drained, it’s because your body is still getting used to the roller coaster hormones raging through your system. Get extra rest if you can! The exhaustion you’re experiencing now is just the tip of the iceberg.

Nausea

Hate to break it to you, but morning sickness doesn't just happen in the morning. It can be an all-day affair. And moms-to-be who are 6 weeks pregnant with twins might have even more severe nausea. It’s a good idea to find foods that help settle your stomach and to keep them on hand for regular snacking, since having an empty stomach can trigger bouts of nausea.

Sore breasts

Your breasts are likely sore, thanks to increased blood flow. Can you believe your body is already starting to prep to breastfeed baby? Yep, even at just 6 weeks!

Frequent urination

If you find yourself having to pee more than usual, it’s in part because the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is directing extra blood flow to the pelvic area. Heading to the bathroom more often is normal, but if you have painful urination or have the urge to go but are unable to, tell your doctor right away. Those are signs of a UTI, which you’re at higher risk for starting at week 6 of pregnancy.

Gas and bloating

The pregnancy hormone progesterone can cause these tummy troubles. Drink lots of water and eat fiber-rich foods to avoid constipation (yuck), which contributes to bloating (double yuck).

Mood swings

Yup, crankiness and emotional extremes are because of the hormones. Fatigue and fluctuations in blood sugar can contribute too, so get extra rest and regularly eat healthy meals and snacks to help keep your mood (at least sort of) in check.

Cramping and spotting

If you’re 6 weeks and cramping, know that at this pont—and any time in early pregnancy—mild cramping and spotting are both common. We know these symptoms can make you worry about problems like ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage. Know that if any abdominal pain is severe (stronger than period cramps) or if bleeding becomes heavy like a period, you should call the doctor.

If you’re 6 weeks pregnant with no symptoms to report, don’t stress. Every pregnancy will progress at its own pace, and some may experience symptoms sooner than others. Even if you do experience symptoms, they’ll likely come and go, but that doesn’t mean anything’s wrong with you or baby.

How you might feel at 6 weeks pregnant

At 6 weeks pregnant, reality is sinking in. You might be excited or nervous, or you might feel completely overwhelmed by the prospect of carrying baby for the next 34 weeks. These feelings are normal, and you might find you swing from one feeling to the next—also normal. Expect things to change, because they are, and whether or not you feel physically different, it’s okay to feel however you feel.

Your Pregnant Belly at 6 Weeks

Though it’s common to be bloated at 6 weeks pregnant, you likely don’t look pregnant at all. Inside your 6 weeks pregnant belly, your rapidly growing apple seed-sized embryo will soon take up a greater amount of real estate in your belly. So if you’re not ready to share your news with the world, you can enjoy your little secret for a little longer. Of course, if you’re 6 weeks pregnant with twins, belly expansion will happen a little sooner than it will for other moms-to-be.

What does a pregnant belly feel like?

So how does your stomach feel in early pregnancy? Your 6-weeks-pregnant bump isn’t much of a bump yet, so you’re the only one who will notice any differences. That said, since you’re probably starting to feel some cramping and bloating, your belly might feel a little bigger than normal. If pants feel tight or uncomfortable, now’s the time to integrate some stretchier waistbands into your wardrobe to give that tummy some room. Whether that tummy expansion currently comes from your growing baby or just gas doesn’t really matter as long as you’re as comfy as possible.

6 weeks pregnant is how many months?

Remember, doctors generally refer to pregnancy by week, not month. Basically, you’re one month and about two weeks pregnant—even though it’s probably been only a week or so since you learned you're expecting. Pregnancy is measured starting with the first day of your last menstrual period. You probably conceived in week 2 or 3, and didn’t discover your pregnancy until you missed your period around week 5.

Anxiety in the earliest weeks of pregnancy is really common and often manifests physically for mamas. This is one of those times that really trying to connect with your body through mindfulness and meditation can be very powerful in managing your anxiety and getting you through those first few weeks!”

Aparna Iyer, MD

Board-certified psychiatrist in Frisco, Texas

Tips for 6 Weeks Pregnant

Ready to feel like yourself again? Here, some tips to live your best life at 6 weeks pregnant.

Prepare for your first prenatal appointment

You’ll have a lot of questions at the first appointment, so make sure you write down anything that comes to mind before you see your doctor. Take note of symptoms, family history and any concerns that might arise as you get closer to your very first prenatal checkup.

Play it safe

Baby is still in the early stages of developing all their critical systems, so now is the time to be a bit conservative with your choices. Go light on caffeine, get extra sleep and steer clear of any activity that could expose you to chemicals or extreme temperatures (hot tubs and saunas are a no-no). Just focus on taking good care of yourself instead.

Go when you gotta go

Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing UTIs, so make sure you drink lots of water and don’t hold it when you have to pee. Needing to pee often is normal when you’re pregnant, but feeling like you constantly have to go or feeling burning or pain when you pee are signs of a UTI.

Find balance

It’s hard to eat all the right things and get daily exercise when you’re exhausted and want to puke all the time. You don’t have to be perfect—just find balance. Sneak in a walk or a light yoga session when you have the energy. Eat well when you can stomach it, but when all you can handle are bland carbs, have at it!

Wins, Challenges and Wisdom

Nothing helps a stressed out mom-to-be feel better about life quite like another stressed out mom-to-be. There’s something comforting in the knowledge that you’re not alone! Here, The Bump community members share their triumphs and tribulations at 6 weeks pregnant.

Win: “I had my first appointment this morning, and heard the most amazing magical sounds of the heartbeat! It brought me to tears! The nurse didn't seem fazed at all. She said the baby is moving around a lot! I’m so grateful/overwhelmed/ecstatic—cannot wait to meet the doctor on Tuesday and hear those beautiful sounds again!" - Melissa0413
Challenge: “I’m just 6 weeks pregnant and… I can't fit in the pants I got at Christmas… I know it’s bloat, but that doesn't change that my pants won’t go on! I pulled out my Bella Band this morning—feels much better!” - ssbeke
Wisdom: “It’s so hard to mentally get past the fears—and they are in fact real. This is my third pregnancy, and when I was pregnant with my second, we had many around us going through some hard things with their babies. It was really tough to watch and go through, all while trying to be excited for my own pregnancy. I'm trying to remember that now—take a deep breath and take it one day at a time. It's so hard, and things happen, but I think having a positive outlook is huge—especially when growing a little human." - lyn_

Frequently Asked Questions

What are ways to relieve pregnancy gas and bloating?

Gas and bloating are both common during early pregnancy thanks to higher levels of the hormone progesterone. It acts as a muscle relaxant and subsequently slows the movement of food through your bowel. That can lead to constipation and pockets of gas. Doing things like staying active, changing your position, hydrating and eating foods that are less gaseous (limit the brussels sprouts!) can help relieve any discomfort and bloating during this time.

When should I be concerned about early pregnancy cramping?

Some cramping in early pregnancy is normal, as the embryo continues to implant itself in your uterus. Cramping that doesn’t improve with rest, that’s located on one side, feels painful or that’s accompanied by symptoms like lightheadedness, nausea or bleeding should be addressed with your healthcare provider.

What are some foods that help with nausea during pregnancy?

Unfortunately, morning sickness is common during pregnancy. Thankfully, some foods may help relieve nausea. Bland foods like rice, toast, applesauce and bananas may help, as well as foods with simple sugars like fruit juice or fruit. Some people also find that ginger or mint can help quell uneasiness. If you’re really struggling with nausea, talk to your healthcare provider. They may recommend certain medications.

What are normal hCG levels at 6 weeks of pregnancy?

The hormone hCG is critical in establishing and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It supports the placenta and development of the early embryo. Every healthcare provider and lab may have a different threshold range for normal hCG levels by week of pregnancy. That said, it’s not really something your doctor will share with you, as it can vary significantly, even for healthy pregnancies.

Is there a heartbeat at 6 weeks?

There’s typically an embryonic heartbeat at six weeks, but it may be difficult to capture on all ultrasound machines at this early stage. It’s also unlikely to be captured with a fetal doppler. In other words, if your provider isn’t able to find a heartbeat yet, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem. They’ll follow up soon to confirm.

At 6 weeks pregnant, what are the signs of a girl or signs of a boy?

Early pregnancy is somewhat of a waiting game, as there’s no way to tell if you’re having a boy or girl yet. The soonest you’ll be able to learn baby’s biological sex is around 10 to 12 weeks, if you opt for non-invasive prenatal testing. Some people may tell you that certain symptoms, like severe morning sickness and heartburn at 6 weeks pregnant are signs of a boy or signs of a girl, but these claims lack any scientific proof and are more fiction than fact.

Why is my belly so big at 6 weeks pregnant?

Having a bigger belly than anticipated at 6 weeks pregnant can take you by surprise. But while your belly may feel big, your uterus is still housed inside the pelvis, so technically you’re not showing just yet! Instead, there are few other factors that may be affecting your bump. The most likely one is bloating due to all the hormonal changes happening in your body. You may also start noticing a bigger belly sooner if you’re carrying multiples or have been pregnant before.

Pregnancy Checklist at Week 6

Reminders for the week:

Evaluate your diet, and brush up on the foods you should avoid during pregnancy

Talk to both sides of the family about their health history, and take notes to share with your doctor

Try some tips to help manage morning sickness

Create a financial plan to start saving for your growing family

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Sources

Contributing writer:
Korin Miller, a mom to four kids, is a freelance writer who’s written dozens of health features for The Bump. She specializes in parenting, wellness and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Women’s Health, Forbes, SELF and more. Korin holds a master’s degree from American University and lives by the beach with her family.

How Big Is Baby:

International Journal of Farm Sciences, Process protocol for mechanical separation of fruit core and seeds from apple fruits, January 2017

Pregnancy Week by Week:

Matthew Carroll, MD, is an ob-gyn and assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine. He earned his medical degree from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York.

Christine Greves, MD, is an ob-gyn at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies in Orlando, Florida. She earned her medical degree from the University Of South Florida College Of Medicine.

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