First Trimester, What to Expect
Even before you know you are pregnant, your body is going through some significant changes. You may be excited, fearful, or a combination of the two. There are many things to consider — physically, mentally, and emotionally. We will be here to help you every step of the way, whether this is your first pregnancy or one of many.
Here is a quick look at what is happening to your body:
LACK OF MENSTRUATION
You may have missed a period, or even two. A missed period is
the most common sign of pregnancy.
FATIGUE
You may feel tired. Some people
experience fatigue in the early months. Listen to
your body and rest when you can. Try hard to get
a good night's sleep.
GROWING WAISTLINE
Toward the end of the
third month of pregnancy, your regular clothing
may feel tight around your waist. Choose
comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
FEELING EMOTIONAL
Even if you are not normally an emotional person, you may cry more
frequently or over little things. You may be happy one minute and feel sad the next.
These mood swings are common during pregnancy.
Discuss your feelings with a member of your healthcare team.
TENDER BREASTS
It is common to have swollen
and/or tender breasts. This is a sign that they are
getting ready to produce milk for your baby.
INCREASED URINATION
As the baby grows,
he/she puts pressure on your bladder. You may
need to go more often than your usual routine.
This is very normal!
NAUSEA
You may develop what is known as
"morning sickness" – waves of nausea or feeling
sick to your stomach. This tends to happen
most commonly in the morning, but can happen
at any time of day. Often it helps to nibble on
a few crackers before you get out of bed in the
morning. The good news? This is common in the
first trimester and usually gets better by the
fourth month. If nausea becomes severe, contact
a member of your healthcare team.
