As the female body progresses through pregnancy, there will be many changes. Changes can include the more prevalent physical changes such as bump growth and breast enlargement. But they can also be internal changes that you might not even notice. We’re telling you all about endometrial thickness at 4 weeks pregnant.
If you’re only 4 weeks pregnant, it probably hasn’t been long since you found out – congratulations! Pregnancy is an incredible time. We’re sure you want to know more about the experience as your body prepares for your child’s birth. Some women experience no symptoms at 4 weeks pregnant, while others may have lots of 4 weeks pregnant symptoms.
This article includes:
- What is endometrial thickness?
- Normal endometrial thickness at 4 weeks pregnant
- Early pregnancy endometrial thickness
- Endometrium ultrasound scan
- Endometrium too thin
- Thickness of the endometrium at 4 weeks pregnant
- Tips for maintaining normal endometrial thickness in pregnancy
What is endometrial thickness?
The endometrium is part of a person’s uterus. It has two layers, the basal layer and the functional layer. The functional layer is responsible for shedding the lining of the uterus during the menstrual cycle.
Endometrial thickness occurs when the lining of the uterus, also known as the endometrium, grows in thickness. Changes in endometrial thickness happen every month during a female’s fertile years to prepare for pregnancy if it occurs.
The endometrium plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. For some women, the endometrium can become too thick or too thin. This can lead to struggling to conceive or being unable to maintain the pregnancy.
In pregnancy, the endometrium is responsible for creating a snug home for the egg to implant successfully. However, it is also responsible for releasing the menstrual period if conception does not occur.
Normal endometrial thickness at 4 weeks pregnant
Every woman is different; therefore, it’s difficult to state a normal endometrial thickness at 4 weeks pregnant. There are three reproductive stages that can affect the thickness of the endometrium.
Proliferative stage
The proliferative phase starts during a person’s menstrual cycle when bleeding stops and ovulation can occur. This is when the endometrium starts to grow but remains at its thinnest, at around 5-7mm.
Late proliferative phase
As you get closer to the time of potential ovulation, the endometrium grows thicker. It can typically increase to around 11mm.
Secretory phase
During this stage, endometrial thickness is at its highest and can reach 16mm for some women. At this stage in the cycle, the human body releases an egg for fertilisation. If you do not become pregnant, the endometrial lining sheds in line with the menstrual cycle.
A normal range of endometrial thickness would be similar to these. A thickened endometrium can help to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Thinner endometriums can be associated with a lower implantation rate. However, there’s also evidence that women have had normal, successful pregnancies with a thinner endometrium.
Thickness increases and decreases as the cycle progresses. If you’re worried, then it’s always best to consult healthcare providers. They can give you advice and perform testing if necessary.
Early pregnancy endometrial thickness
As you progress through your pregnancy, endometrial thickness increases. This is so that the fertilised egg has a snug place to settle and implant. When implantation occurs, it can often be accompanied by cramping and spotting at 4 weeks pregnant. This is usually nothing to worry about and can be recognised as implantation bleeding.
At this early pregnancy stage, the egg is implanting itself ready for growth over the following months.
Endometrium ultrasound scan
The thickness of the endometrium can often be checked using an ultrasound scan at 4 weeks pregnant. This scan will allow professionals to identify the endometrium’s thickness and suggest any necessary treatments.
Some pregnant women are offered an ultrasound scan when they report abnormal vaginal bleeding. Abnormal bleeding in pregnancy can be a sign that something is not quite right. Another symptom that may require further testing is pelvic pain at 4 weeks pregnant. While these symptoms may be nothing to worry about, it’s better to get advice and checked if necessary.
When endometrium thickness is measured over time, medical staff may be able to identify whether there’s a significant difference throughout pregnancy. Depending on what your endometrium typically measures, you may have more peace of mind for future pregnancies.
A scan can be organised with a healthcare professional. They will provide you with all of the information you need and will get your results to you.
Endometrium too thin
There are many reasons why you may be experiencing a thin endometrium. A thinner endometrium can make it harder for a fertilised egg to implant itself.
Here are some reasons why you may have a thinner endometrium –
Blood flow
The endometrium needs a stable blood flow to change and meet reproduction needs. Exercise is a good way to increase blood flow, supporting endometrial thickness.
Hormonal changes
The body is full of hormones that all provide different functions. In pregnancy, the hormones change and rise at a faster rate. Two important hormones are oestrogen and progesterone. Another pregnancy hormone that has an essential role is the human chorionic gonadotropin. You can find out more about hCG levels at 4 weeks pregnant.
If there are lower levels of hormones, they may not be performing the way they are intended to. This can cause changes to endometrial thickness during pregnancy.
Stress
Stress is often an underlying cause of many things. Keeping your stress levels low is important, especially in pregnancy. You may find some activities useful for stress relief, such as walking, crafts or a calming meditation class.
You’ll know how best to control your own stress levels. Getting enough sleep and taking time out for yourself where possible can help.
Don’t forget that there are always people to talk to. Pregnancy can be stressful and cause worry. There’s no need to try and deal with everything on your own, so seek support if you need it.
Having a thinner endometrium doesn’t always mean your pregnancy is at risk. It may just mean that you will be monitored a little closer and have more testing throughout pregnancy.
Thickness of the endometrium at 4 weeks pregnant
There are many factors contributing to a potential thicker endometrium. These can include –
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Chronic high blood pressure
- Endometrial hyperplasia
- Endometrial polyp
You will receive closer monitoring as your pregnancy progresses if you suffer from any of these health conditions. Another reason you may have excessive endometrial thickness is an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies commonly occur between the 4th and 12th week of pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy involves the fertilised egg implanting itself outside of the womb. This can happen in the fallopian tube, which can be dangerous. When an ectopic pregnancy occurs, it is not possible to save the baby.
Signs of ectopic pregnancy
- Intense pain in the stomach (could be just on one side)
- Pains in the tip of the shoulder
- Vaginal bleeding
- Pains or discomfort when visiting the toilet
You must seek medical advice if you notice any of these signs as soon as possible.
If these symptoms worsen and you feel sick or dizzy, you must call emergency services. Ectopic pregnancies can lead to ruptures which require surgery to fix.
Tips for maintaining a normal endometrial thickness in early pregnancy
Diet
Your diet plays an essential role in staying healthy throughout life. A healthy diet is even more important during pregnancy due to carrying a baby. A healthy diet includes eating a balance of food groups while avoiding foods high in sugar and fat.
Vitamins
In addition to a healthy diet, you may choose to take prenatal vitamins. Speak to your midwife before you start taking vitamins, as they can advise you based on your personal circumstances. Many women take folic acid in early pregnancy. Folic acid helps to reduce the chances of birth defects. However, many women stop taking folic acid after the first trimester as it can have no effect at this point.
Exercise
Exercise benefits not only your physical health but your mental health too. So with that in mind, it’s a good idea to try and exercise for a few hours per week. This can be any exercise you enjoy, from walking to yoga. During pregnancy, it’s a good idea to take up activities that are considered less strenuous.
Rest
You’re likely to start feeling very tired, even during early pregnancy. Tiredness may even be one of the first signs of pregnancy that you recognise. Making sure that you’re getting enough rest allows the body to recover. This can help to support the endometrium in pregnancy.
Endometrium changes are completely normal throughout life due to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. However, seek advice if you become worried about endometrial growth in pregnancy. Seeking help can help you to get the right treatment.
Abigail Sproston
Hey there, I’m Abigail!
I recently graduated with a degree in Marketing. I’m currently a freelance blogger and Marketing Assistant. I love learning new things and hope that you find my blogs useful and informative.
See you in the next article!