6 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
At six weeks pregnant the embryo has doubled in size since last week, and the first prenatal appointment is just around the corner. This is the week many providers will be able to detect a heartbeat on an early ultrasound.
Baby at Week 6: Size of a lentil
Baby's Development at 6 Weeks
The heart is now beating between 100 and 160 times per minute — that rapid flicker you might see on an early scan. Facial features are beginning to form: tiny indentations mark where the eyes will be, and the nose, ears, and mouth are starting to take shape. The brain is dividing into five distinct sections. The neural tube has closed, and the kidneys, liver, and lungs are beginning to develop. The embryo's head is noticeably larger than its body, as the brain develops so rapidly.
Your Body at 6 Weeks Pregnant
Nausea often intensifies around week six and may be accompanied by vomiting. Extreme fatigue continues. Breast changes — tenderness, fullness, visible veins — become more pronounced. Heightened smell makes some foods and scents unbearable. You may notice increased saliva, which is a little-discussed but very real pregnancy symptom. Spotting after sex is also possible and usually harmless, as the cervix becomes more sensitive.
Tips for Week 6
- Schedule your first prenatal appointment this week if you haven't already.
- If nausea is severe, ask your provider about safe anti-nausea medications — you don't have to suffer through it.
- Crackers, dry toast, or plain rice before getting out of bed can help with morning nausea.
- Start thinking about whether you want genetic screening — your provider will discuss options at your first visit.
Try it free →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see a heartbeat at 6 weeks?
Often yes. At six weeks a transvaginal ultrasound can usually detect the embryo's heartbeat, though sometimes it takes until week 7 or 8 depending on the exact gestational age and the equipment used. If no heartbeat is found at 6 weeks, a repeat scan in 1–2 weeks is typically recommended before drawing any conclusions.
Why do I have so much saliva at 6 weeks?
Excess saliva in pregnancy — called ptyalism or sialorrhea — is a real and underappreciated symptom, especially in the first trimester. It's thought to be caused by hormonal changes and often occurs alongside nausea. It typically eases after the first trimester.
Keep your partner in the loop
Hello, baby syncs milestones between partners automatically — appointments, scans, and every big moment.
Start for free →