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Week 6

Support and information from NCT

NCT offers reliable support and information about the various stages of pregnancy, week by week.

Your baby's development

Your baby will now have doubled in size to around 6mm long. They will have a defined head and the beginning of a spine and look more like the ‘comma’ shape. 

Their arms and legs are beginning to form in buds and their liver, brain and musculoskeletal system are also starting to develop.

Week 6

How are you feeling?

A combination of hormones, plus the understandable excitement and concern you may feel at the prospect of motherhood, could mean you feel emotional and stressed at times.

Rest should help as well as sharing how you’re feeling with your partner, family and close friends. A bit of understanding and TLC can help a lot!

Guidelines on alcohol

During pregnancy, heavy drinking can damage your baby as alcohol crosses the placenta quickly and easily. It is recommended that women should avoid all alcohol during the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of miscarriage, and to stick to no more than one or two units of alcohol once or twice a week after that time. Some authorities recommend avoiding alcohol altogether just in case.

If you drink a lot and are worried about how to cut down, then talk to your midwife or GP.

Meet your midwife

Now’s the time to think about making your first midwife appointment. Click here to use the NHS page to find out about maternity services near you and contact details for midwives. Or, if you prefer, contact your GP surgery.

Your first visit will be at around 8 to 10 weeks of pregnancy. This is known as your ‘booking appointment’ where you and your midwife can get to know each other. They will also help you with any concerns and talk through your antenatal care.

Checklist

Arrange a booking appointment with your midwife.

Find out about maternity services in your area. 

Further information

NCT offers reliable support and information about the various stages of pregnancy, week by week. Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.
 

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Week 6

Courses & workshops

In-person NCT Antenatal course

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NCT Antenatal refresher course

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NCT Membership
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