A body under construction – changes you may notice

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By week 7, early pregnancy symptoms often become more noticeable. Your baby is still tiny, but your body is already responding in big ways. Some changes may surprise you. Others might feel strange or unfamiliar.

You may look the same on the outside, but inside, your body is adjusting to support new life.

Hormones Are in Full Effect

Hormone levels continue to rise sharply during this week. Progesterone, estrogen, and hCG are working together to keep the pregnancy stable. At the same time, they affect how your body feels. These hormonal changes even alter working of various organs. Even metabolic rate is altered now.

You might feel more tired than usual. You may also find yourself more emotional or sensitive to stress. These shifts are closely linked to hormonal changes happening behind the scenes.

Breast Changes and New Sensations

Around this time, your breasts may start to feel fuller or more tender. The skin around the nipples often darkens, and small bumps may appear. These changes are your body’s way of preparing for breastfeeding, even though that stage is still far ahead.

You might also notice a tingling or pulling sensation in the chest. These signs are normal and tend to settle down in the coming weeks.

Your Digestive System Slows Down

Many women begin to experience bloating, gas, or mild cramping around week 7. Progesterone relaxes the muscles in your digestive system, which slows everything down. This can lead to constipation or a feeling of fullness after small meals.

Cramping is usually mild and short-lived. It often feels like light period cramps. If it becomes sharp or is combined with bleeding, contact your provider. But in most cases, it’s simply your uterus expanding.

Changes in Skin, Smell, and Taste

Skin can become more sensitive. You may break out, feel dry patches, or notice increased oiliness. These changes are triggered by hormonal shifts and may come and go.

Your sense of smell might be stronger. Scents that never bothered you before can suddenly feel overwhelming. The way food tastes may also change. Some meals might lose their appeal. Others may cause nausea with no warning.

These reactions can feel frustrating, but they are common at this stage.

Shifting Energy and Focus

You may feel mentally scattered or forgetful. Some describe this as a kind of fog, where focusing on simple tasks becomes more difficult. This change in mental clarity can be caused by hormone fluctuations, disrupted sleep, or emotional overload.

It helps to write things down and go slower when possible. These shifts tend to pass as your body adapts.

Every Change Has a Purpose

Though you may not see big physical changes yet, your body is doing complex work. The embryo is developing organs, limbs, and a heartbeat. Your uterus is growing, your blood volume is rising, and your metabolism is adjusting.

These physical signs, while sometimes uncomfortable, are part of that deeper transformation. Your body is responding to a new presence and learning how to support it, day by day.