First Trimester - What To Expect When You're Expecting

Pregnancy is a joyous experience for every woman. It comes with many physical and emotional changes. Getting the hang of these changes can help you take care of yourself during this exciting time.

No two pregnancies are the same; some women maintain good health and others feel miserable.  The preparations for your child’s birth are on full swing, during which, you do not realise that you should also be prepared for the forthcoming bodily changes.

Let us make you aware about the alterations a pregger observes in her body as the pregnancy progresses.

Fatigue

A woman’s body works hard to support a growing foetus, which can contribute to fatigue. If you wear out more easily, take rest when you feel fatigued and make sure you get enough iron.

Bleeding

A pregnant woman in her first trimester may experience slight bleeding. Light spotting is one of the things that indicate the implantation of the fertilized embryo in the uterus. Heavy bleeding accompanied by cramping or sharp pain in your abdomen must be reported to a doctor. It could be a sign of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. If the discharge is foul-smelling, call your doctor immediately.

Morning sickness

Nausea is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms, which is a result of hormonal changes in the body. Nausea spells are worst in the morning. To deal with nausea, eat protein snacks and sip water. Moreover, be watchful of any foods that trigger your nausea.

Breast tenderness

There is a lot going on in the first trimester of pregnancy - the baby begins to develop and pregnant body experiences some major changes. Hormonal changes in a woman’s body prepare the milk ducts for feeding and can make breasts sore.

Constipation

Owing to higher levels of hormone progesterone during first trimester, food through your intestines moves a bit slow. Besides, prenatal vitamins provide you with extra iron. These can make you feel bloated and constipated. To ward off the risk of constipation, it is advised to up your fibre intake, drink extra fluids and avoid foods that are greasy, spicy, and acidic. Mild laxative or stool softeners are other ways to help deal with constipation, but consult your doctor about that.

Food cravings and aversions

Pregnant women experience food cravings and food aversions, especially during the first trimester. If you are eating healthy and low-calorie foods, giving in to cravings is fine.

Frequent urge to urinate

You may feel that you constantly have to go to the washroom. It happens because the uterus is growing and it puts pressure on your bladder. To cope with it, don't cut down on drinking fluids, but do cut down on caffeine intake as it stimulates the bladder.

Weight gain

Weight gain is considered a good thing in the first trimester, but don't overdo it. Also, don't go by the ‘eating for two’ rule, you only need extra 150 calories a day. Add extra fruits and vegetables, milk, whole-grain bread and lean meat to your diet to reach the goal.

As your pregnancy progresses, you will observe and experience many more changes. Many expecting mothers, who keep track of their changes, understand them and deal with them better. Knowing what to expect during the first trimester is one way to plan your pregnancy with confidence.

Read more articles on Pregnancy.