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Discover what happens during week 1 of pre-conception. Baby development, body changes, symptoms, and a weekly checklist.
Understanding the initial stages of pregnancy is vital for laying a strong foundation for your journey ahead. The preconception stage requires you to pay attention to the basics; the healthier your daily life, the easier it gets for you to get pregnant and transition into the brand-new phase of your life.
Pre-Conception is a time of rapid change — for both you and your baby. Every pregnancy is unique, and the information below will help you understand what's happening and how to prepare for the weeks ahead.

Before fertilisation, the body does not go through any sort of change. Once the sperm has fused with the egg to form a zygote during the second week, the lining of the uterus starts to thicken leading to an addition in cervical mucus.
The zygote commences to divide rapidly at this early stage.

Each week brings new things to prepare for. Here's what expecting parents during week 1 typically track in the BabySteps Companion app. Items are sorted by priority so you can focus on what matters most.
It's crucial to establish a strong partnership with a healthcare professional who can address your questions and concerns as you embark on this exciting phase of preparation for conception.
Take control of your fertility journey by starting to track your menstrual cycle. Understanding the patterns of your cycle will help you identify the most fertile days for conception. Utilize apps, calendars, or tracking methods recommended by your healthcare provider to maximize your chances of successful conception. Tracking empowers you with knowledge, making your family planning efforts more effective and informed.
Regular intimacy not only keeps the romance alive but also increases your chances of conception. Make those special moments count on your journey to parenthood.
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Get week-by-week guidance tailored to your role, health & history, symptoms, and stage of pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different, but these are some of the most common sensations women report during week 1. Your experience is valid — whether you feel all of these or none at all.
Pregnancy can lead to changes in your cervix, the lower part of the uterus. As pregnancy progresses, the cervix may become softer, higher, and more closed. These changes are normal and help support your growing baby. However, if you experience any unusual discharge, bleeding, or pain, it's important to contact your healthcare provider.
Read moreMany pregnant women experience food aversions, where certain smells or tastes trigger feelings of nausea or disgust. This can be a result of hormonal changes and may vary from person to person. It's essential to listen to your body and avoid foods that make you feel unwell. If food aversions impact your ability to eat a balanced diet, consult your healthcare provider.
Read moreYour sex drive may rev up and your body odour may be more attractive to men around the time you're fertile.
Read moreA missed period is often the first sign of pregnancy, signaling that fertilization has occurred and implantation has taken place. If you've missed a period and suspect you may be pregnant, take a home pregnancy test or consult your healthcare provider for confirmation and guidance on prenatal care.
Read moreAsk BabySteps AI and get guidance based on your pregnancy stage.
Learn more about what to expect with expert-guided videos and articles curated for this stage of your pregnancy.
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