First trimester

Week 4 of pregnancy — a father's guide

The baby is the size of a poppy seed. 36 weeks to go.

Your baby

The embryo is implanting and the placenta is beginning to form.

Your partner

She may not feel pregnant yet, though a missed period is often the first sign.

What to do

Encourage a folic-acid supplement if she hasn't started one.

Practical week-4 checklist for fathers

  • Make sure folic acid is part of her daily routine.
  • Book or confirm the next antenatal visit — go with her if you can.
  • Cover early mornings or late nights so she can sleep through nausea and fatigue.
  • Keep bland snacks and cold water within easy reach.

What's actually happening at week 4

The embryo is implanting and the placenta is beginning to form. For your partner: she may not feel pregnant yet, though a missed period is often the first sign.

A note for the father at week 4

Encourage a folic-acid supplement if she hasn't started one. Pregnancy is hard work — your steadiness is the most valuable thing you can offer this week.

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