Baby's Development:

The head begins to take shape, tiny cavities show the future location of the eyes and ears.

The digestive tract is in formation but the mouth cannot be opened yet.

The tissue connecting the embryo to the uterus turns into an umbilical cord.  The backbone begins formation.  The cluster of cells that will become the testis or ovaries appear.

5 to 6 week scan showing heart beat at 138 beats per minute

Baby's Profile:        Size:       -  9 to 14 mm

                                  Weight:  -  1.5 g

Her Emotions:

In some countries, it is normal to take the first scan at 6 weeks. This allows the doctor to make a more precise assessment of the time of conception and the overall health of the embryo.  In other countries it is normal to wait until the tenth week, but even in these countries, if you have had previous early pregnancy losses then a six week scan is often done. 

The first scan can be a terrifyingly anxious time before you actually see the heart beating.  Good equipment can show good detail and can measure the heart rate (see picture above) and the very latest can give a three dimensional image.  This is a profoundly emotional time for both of you.   Treasure it! 

His Emotions:

Being at the first scan is an incredible experience.  This is the point when you see with your own eyes that something is actually growing inside your partner's belly, and half of it came from you! Is that confirmation enough of your masculinity now?  

Useful Information:

You need to get a blood test done quickly (the doctor will prescribe what to test for).  This should normally test for immunities against certain illnesses such as Toxoplasmosis and German Measles.

See also: Understanding a woman's body changes during her pregnancy