Welcome to the exciting journey of pregnancy! First of all wholehearted congratulations on your pregnancy. This is an incredible time of life for every woman filled with excitement and anticipation.
“No matter what, it can be the first or third baby carrying a child, and becoming a mother is a true blessing” Women may undergo many challenges, and discomforts as well as wonderful moments to upgrade as a caring mother. It’s only to welcome her child to this world and witness the smiley faces of their families. But, it is essential to be aware of the problems that arise during each stage of pregnancy. Here are some of the essential things to know for a safe first-trimester journey.
Duration of First Trimester
The first trimester lasts until the end of 12 weeks or 3 months. Get to know about the exact date by calculating from the first day of the last menstrual period (due date). But, in case you have irregular periods, it’s better to get confirmed by doctors.Symptoms During First Trimester
As everyone knows, the missing period is the confirmation sign for pregnancy. Other than this, your body undergoes several physical and hormonal changes. Let’s get aware of the symptoms during 1st trimester. Nausea And Vomiting (Morning Sickness): it is a common symptom that strikes not only in the mornings but always. However, it’s an undeniable part of your pregnancy journey, so follow these tips to overcome nausea and vomiting. Increased intakes of low-fat foods, take more rest, drink plenty of water, and meditate in a calm environment. And ginger can reduce morning sickness, but before consuming it, consult your doctor. Tender Breast: hormonal changes make your breast so sensitive and big. Don’t worry, this condition won’t last forever that remains during the first 4 to 7 weeks. Mood Swings: many women may or may not experience this condition during their periods. But, as per the survey, mood swings are common in pregnancy. You may lose or gain weight, your hormones often change, increased blood level results in more urination, and you crave food. All these entire conditions result in mood swings and make you feel depressed. You can get rid of it, by spending time with lovely partner and families, exercising regularly, and consulting a therapist. Fatigue and Tiredness: it is the symptoms of an early stage of pregnancy. Take proper rest and eat a healthy diet to boost your energy levels. And also, you can do many activities that make you happy and keep you engaged.Pregnancy Cramps in First Trimester
Are cramps normal during pregnancy? It is the first question that strikes through everyone’s mind because it’s necessary to be aware of it. However, normal cramping is usual during the early stage and has plenty of reasons like, Gas and Constipation: constipation leads to bearable abdominal pain and stomach ache. How it causes mild crap? During pregnancy, your hormone goes up and down, increases your cravings, and requires more blood for the growth of the fetus. This results in increased pressure, gas and cause mild cramps. Implantation Bleeding: is light bleeding compared to periods. It occurs after one or two weeks of the initial stage of pregnancy. No need to worry about this condition, because it stops once your uterus starts developing a fetus. Apart from these reasons, conditions of severe cramps lead to miscarriage. Consult your doctor, if you experience these symptoms as soon as possible.- High fever over 105 degrees
- Severe vomiting and diarrhea
- Painful and burning during urination
- Heavy vaginal bleeding and unusual vaginal discharge
- Vision challenges
- Severe migration and cramps in legs
Growth of Baby in First Trimester
In the long pregnancy period of 10 months, the first 3 months are very important. You must receive extra parental care and love from your family for the initial growth of the baby. During weeks 1 to 4, the fertilization and implantation phase takes place. In the fallopian tube, egg and sperm united and formed as a zygote. And from the 5th week, you start witnessing changes in your body, hormonal imbalances and miss your due date. In 6th week, the fetus starts growing into a c-shaped curvature and starts developing the heart and other essential organs. 7th week: Head and face develop. Limb transforms as small legs and arm buds appear in baddles shape. 8th week: fingers, nose, upper lips, and eyes shape are formed. 9th and 10th week: grown elbow and arm appear with toes and eyelids around 9th week. In next week, the baby can bend their elbows and the developed umbilical cord is clearly visible. 11th, 12th week: genital developed completely, broad face with separated eyes. Buds for teeth, lower ear, and red blood cells start forming in the liver are developed in the eleventh week. Now, it’s a fetus with intestines and 2 ½ inches long around the 12th week.Checklist for First Trimester
- Take a pregnancy test at home and tell your families
- Schedule your first prenatal appointment
- Intake essential vitamins and nutrients
- Stay hydrated
- Follow healthy diet
- Discuss with your doctor and plan a diet chart according to your body condition
- Practice pregnancy-friendly exercise
- Check your finances and maternity leave policies (if you are working)
- Choose baby names and relax with your loved partner
Things to Eliminate in the First Trimester
- Quit smoking and reduce consumption of caffeinated drinks
- Don’t eat raw foods and unpasteurized dairy products
- Avoid hot tubs and saunas for better development of the fetus
- Keep away tension, stress, and depression
- Eliminate specific exercise that affects your pregnancy