What is the first trimester of pregnancy?
The first trimester of pregnancy is the most early phase. It begins on the first day after your last period, before you are even pregnant. It lasts until the 13th week. It is a time of excitement and rapid changes for you and your baby. You can prepare for the months ahead by knowing what to expect.
The First Trimester of Changes in Your Body
Every woman is different during pregnancy. Some women feel great during the first three months while others are miserable. These are the signs you should look out for and what they could mean.
Bleeding During the First Trimester of Pregnancy.
Around 25% of pregnant women experience slight bleeding in their first Trimester. Light spotting in pregnancy may indicate that the fertilized embryo is in your uterus. If you experience severe bleeding, cramping or sharp pain in the abdomen, consult your doctor. These signs could indicate a miscarriage, ectopic pregnant (a situation in which the embryo implanted outside the uterus).
Breast tenderness.
Dry, sore breasts can be a sign of pregnancy . These symptoms are caused by hormonal changes that prepare your milk ducts to feed your baby. During the first trimester, your breasts may feel tender. You can feel more comfortable by going up in bra size or wearing a support bra. After your baby is able to nurse, you won’t be able to go back down to your normal bra size. Constipation. You can feel uncomfortable constipation throughout your pregnancy, especially if you take extra iron from your prenatal vitamins. To keep things running smoothly, eat more fiber and drink more fluids. Exercise is also a good idea. Talk to your doctor if constipation is really bothering.
Leukorrhea.
You may notice a thin, white-colored discharge early in pregnancy. If you prefer to feel more comfortable, you can use a panty liner. However, a tampon could cause germs to enter your vagina. Call the doctor if the discharge is very strong, especially if it smells bad or is clear.
Fatigue.
The body is trying to provide support for a growing baby. This means that you will feel tired faster than usual. You should take breaks or rest whenever you feel like it. You should ensure that you are getting enough iron. Too much iron can cause anemia which can make you more tired.
Your food preferences and dislikes.
Over 60% of pregnant women experience food cravings, which means more than half of them have food cravings. It’s okay to indulge in cravings from time-to-time, as long as you eat healthy, low calorie foods most of all.< pica is an exception. This is a nonfood craving like clay, dirt and laundry starch that can pose a danger to your baby and you. Report this type of craving to your doctor immediately.
You may be peeing a lot.
Although your baby is still very small, your bladder is growing. You may feel the need to use the toilet all the time. You shouldn’t stop drinking fluids, your body still needs them. However, you should cut back on caffeine (which stimulates the bladder), particularly before bedtime. Answer nature’s call as quickly as possible. Do not hold it back.
Heartburn.
Your body produces more progesterone during pregnancy. It relaxes smooth muscle, such as the ring of muscles in your lower stomach, which connects your stomach and mouth. These muscles keep acid and food down in your stomach. Acid reflux is a condition that causes stomach acid to rise. This is also known as Heartburn. You can avoid the burn
- Take small bites throughout the day.
- Do not lie down immediately after eating.
- Avoid spicy, greasy and acidic foods, such as citrus fruits.
- When you go to sleep, raise your pillows.
Feeling moody.
Changes in hormones and increased fatigue can cause emotional swings that take you from happy to sad, or even from hopeful to scared in seconds. You are allowed to cry. However, if you feel overwhelmed, it is okay to talk to someone. Talk to your partner, friend, family member or professional.
Morning sickness.
Nausea are the most common pregnant symptoms. It affects up to 85% of pregnant mothers. It is caused by hormone changes and can last throughout the first trimester. Some pregnant women experience mild nausea. Others cannot start their day without nausea. The morning is when nausea is most severe (hence, the name morning sickness). You can calm nausea by eating bland or high- protein snacks like crackers, cheese, and drinking water or clear fruit juice (apple juice) or ginger ale. This can be done before you even get out of bed. Avoid eating foods that can make you feel sick . Although nausea is not something to be concerned about, if your baby has severe vomiting or it doesn’t stop, you may need to reduce the nutrition that they receive. If you have trouble swallowing or throwing up, consult your doctor.
Weight gain during the first trimester of your pregnancy.
Pregnancy can be a time when weight gain is a positive thing. You should gain approximately 3-6 pounds during the first trimester. Your doctor may recommend that you increase or decrease your weight gain if you are overweight or underweight. Even though you are carrying more people, you don’t eat for two. The first trimester only requires 150 extra calories per day. You can get those calories in a healthy way by including extra fruits, vegetables and milk to your diet.
Baby’s Growth in the First Trimesterof Pregnancy
Your baby will transform from a fertilized egg to a fully formed fetus in the first 13 weeks. All major organs and systems have begun to take shape. This means that your baby may be at risk if you are addicted to street drugs, get sick, or expose them to radiation. Here’s what’s happening:
- Your uterus will be implanted with the fertilized egg. It is a group of rapidly-dividing cells. All three parts of the embryo, including the placenta and umbilical cord, begin to grow.
- The baby’s nervous system transforms from an open neural tube into a brain and spinal chord. The nervous system and muscles begin to work together. Although your baby may be able to move by itself, it is too early for you to feel it.
- The heart begins to shape and beats. It can be heard on ultrasound as early at week 6. It beats between 120 and 160 times per minute. The formation of red blood cells is underway.
- Your baby will develop a digestive system that includes intestines, kidneys, and stomach.
- Although they have lungs and major organs, they aren’t fully developed.
- The soft skeleton is beginning to develop.
- Your baby begins to look like a baby. They have arms, legs and fingers. Their face develops eyes, ears and a nose. The baby’s tongue and teeth buds develop. Your baby will have eyelids that cover their eyes. By the end of the third trimester, they may even have fingernails.
- Although genital growth begins, it is too early to determine by ultrasound if you are having a girl.
Your baby should be approximately 2 1/2-3 inches in length by the end of the first trimester.
Things to fo in the First Trimester of pregnancy
A baby is a joyous time in many women’s life. The excitement of bringing your baby home is overwhelming. You also have to think about how you will name the baby and choose nursery colors. Here is a list of thing you sould be thinking of doing during your first trimester of pregnancy:
Find the right doctor for you
- Select a doctor. Are you looking for an obstetrician, or a midwife to help you? Refer to other doctors and learn about your insurance coverage.
- When you find out you are pregnant, schedule a prenatal appointment. The first visit will cover a lot. The doctor will review your medical history and discuss your health and lifestyle. They will also determine your due date. They will also perform blood and urine tests, and possibly a pelvic examination.
- Keep up with your prenatal visits every four weeks. Your baby’s heartbeat will be listened to, your blood pressure and weight will be checked and tested by the doctor.
Screening in the firt trimester of pregnancy
- Find out what additional screenings and tests you might need, including tests to check for genetic problems in your baby.
- To help your baby’s brain, and spine develop properly, you should start taking a prenatal vitamin that contains at least 400 mg of Folic Acid.
- Ask your doctor about prescription and over-the counter medicines that you can safely continue to take.
- Make changes to your diet to ensure your baby gets the right nutrition. Get plenty of water.
- Stop smoking and using illegal drugs. Reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeine.
- You can keep up with your exercise routine but be mindful of your body. It may be necessary to modify the type of exercise that you do or to slow down a bit.
- Start researching the cost of having a baby, and then make changes. What will it cost to have a baby? Are you willing to cut back on your work hours? Create a budget that includes the new addition.
- You will decide when and how to share your news. It’s possible to wait until the baby’s heartbeat is heard or the baby has passed safely through the first trimester before sharing your news. Before you speak to your boss, it’s smart to research your company’s policies regarding maternity leave.
Emergency Symptoms during the First Trimester of pregnancy.
The following symptoms could indicate that there is something seriously wrong especialy during the first trimester of pregnancy. Do not wait until your prenatal visit to discuss it. If you have any concerns, call your doctor immediately.
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavily bleeding
- Severe dizziness
- Too little or rapid weight gain