4 Weeks Pregnant

4 weeks pregnant: implantation, hCG and a possible positive test

At 4 weeks pregnant, the early embryo has reached the uterus and is implanting in the uterine lining. The placenta is beginning to form, and after implantation the pregnancy hormone hCG starts to rise.

This is the week many people expect their period. If your period is late, a home pregnancy test may already be positive, although some people still test negative this early. Testing with first-morning urine and repeating the test after a few days can help if the result is unclear.

Week 4 follows 3 weeks pregnant, when fertilization and early cell division may have happened. It belongs to the first trimester. Next, read about 5 weeks pregnant, when early symptoms often become more noticeable.

Your body

You may still feel completely normal, or you may notice early pregnancy symptoms such as tiredness, breast tenderness, bloating, mild cramping, mood changes, nausea, food aversions, a stronger sense of smell or a metallic taste in your mouth.

Light spotting can happen around implantation, but it should be light and short-lived. Heavy bleeding, severe cramping, one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness or fainting should be checked urgently, especially this early in pregnancy.

If your test is positive, contact an OB-GYN, midwife, GP or maternity service to ask when your first appointment should be. Also review any prescription medicines, supplements or health conditions with a healthcare professional.

Ideas

• Take a home pregnancy test after your missed period, or repeat it in a few days if the result is unclear.
• Continue a prenatal vitamin with folic acid if recommended by your healthcare professional.
• Prioritize sleep and rest; short naps can help if fatigue is strong.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs, and ask before using medicines or supplements.

Frequently asked questions about 4 weeks pregnant