The first thing that comes to a woman’s mind after finding out she is pregnant is the protruding belly. However, there are so many major changes that happen to your body apart from the enlarging belly. The first weeks are the most overwhelming for most people since everything is new to your body and emotions. This article helps you explore what to expect in your first trimester of pregnancy.
How Many weeks is the First Trimester?
The first Trimester lasts for 13 weeks. A full-term pregnancy lasts 40 weeks and has three trimesters, each going for about 13 weeks. The first Trimester is critical because the fetus’s major organs and systems are developing. Any unhealthy substances consumed increase the baby’s risk of being born with disorders.
Body Changes During the First Trimester
The first sign of pregnancy is your missed period. Other changes include;
- Nausea and Vomiting. One month after pregnancy, you experience morning sickness from high hormones. To avoid nausea, eat small portions at intervals, take lots of fluids, and choose low-fat food. If nausea is too much and uncomfortable, talk to your doctor for advice.
- Frequent urination. Throughout your pregnancy, urinating may increase more than usual. This is due to increased blood which causes the kidneys to process extra fluids.
- Tender swollen nipples. This is the first change you will experience in your body. Due to high hormonal changes, your breast may become sensitive. Some women experience soreness, especially during cold weather.
- Heartburn. Changes in hormones can decrease food breakdown, which can cause heartburn.
- Irregular emotions. Due to hormonal changes, you may feel moody, tired, and stressed.
- Enlarged Belly. Some women will start noticing the protruding belly during the first Trimester. However, depending on your size, the belly will start showing well during the second Trimester.
- Vaginal Bleeding. You may experience mild spotting, which is normal. However, if the bleeding is in excess, please get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible.
- Skin Changes. Due to high blood circulation, your skin may become shiny. The hormones can cause extra oil on the skin.
Baby’s Growth in the First Trimester
During the first trimester, the baby’s major organs and body systems are already forming. However, the baby cannot survive independently. For the first eight weeks, the fetus is referred to as an embryo. The embryo develops very fast and is now a fetus by the end of the first Trimester. The weight ranges from 10 to 30g, with a height of 3 to 4 inches.
During the first 13 weeks, the fetus is more vulnerable to damage from exposure to drugs, medications, tobacco, or any toxic substance.
What to do During Your First Trimester
The first thing to do as soon as you find out you are pregnant is to visit your doctor. Early pregnancy care can help to reduce any possible complications. Your doctor will conduct a number of tests on you, including blood group, rhesus factors, physical examinations, HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Pelvic Exams. Note that, in the first semester, it may be difficult to know the gender of the baby. Throughout the pregnancy, ensure that you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Others include;
- Begin taking the pregnancy vitamin that contains folic acid.
- Have plenty of rest
- Take a lot of water
- Start your antenatal visits
- Stay active by engaging in walks and house chores.
What to Avoid During the First Trimester
Once you find out about your pregnancy, it is high time to change some of your lifestyles. The changes are to help your baby develop in a healthy environment. Some of the things to avoid are;
- Cigarettes
- Drugs
- Alcohol
- Sports or activities that put pressure on your tummy
- Uncooked meats, unpasteurized milk, raw fish, or fish high in mercury
- Hot tubs and saunas
- Too much caffeine. Limit the amount of coffee during pregnancy.
Wrap Up!
During your first visit to the doctor, a number of tests will be done. Your doctor will educate you and prepare you for the rest of the pregnancy. After the first visit, your doctor will help you schedule the dates for the other visits, which will occur after every four weeks. During the appointments, have questions and discuss any concerns about your pregnancy. No questions are ridiculous or less important; let your doctor know your fears. The answers can help you prepare psychologically for childbirth and the newborn.
Resources
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/