Early Pregnancy Symptoms: Guide on What To Do and Avoid During the First Trimester

Pregnancy pregnancy symptoms first trimester of pregnancy

By Jackelyn Cornejo , Parent Herald Feb 19, 04:43 pm

Photo: (Photo : PATRICK PLEUL/DPA/AFP via Getty Images )

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each enduring slightly more than 13 weeks. The dawn of a trimester starts with the onset of the first month.

The start stage of pregnancy, well known as the first trimester, begins from the first day of your last menstrual period, even before you assume, and spans until the ending of the 13th week.

This period involves remarkable changes for both you and the baby and is distinguished by anxious expectations. Acquainting yourself with what to expect during this time is essential for getting ready for the months ahead.

Recognizing Body Changes During the First Trimester

Pregnancy experiences vary among women, with some feeling lively and well, while others undergo soreness. Various changes may happen, and it's necessary to acknowledge their importance and know when to look for medical advice. Here are some of the transformation that you may experience during early pregnancy.

Bleeding: Approximately 25% of pregnant women may encounter slight bleeding in the first trimester. While light spotting is normal, serious bleeding, cramping, or abdominal pain could show issues such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Breast discomfort: Painful breasts, a common early sign of pregnancy, result from hormonal changes that develop your milk ducts. Wearing a supportive bra can strengthen solace.
Constipation: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can slow down digestive muscle shrinking, leading to contraction. Increasing fiber intake, fluids, and physical activity can ease this issue.
Discharge: A narrow, milky white discharge (leukorrhea) is usual. However, uncommon color, odor, or excessive clear discharge should cause a call to your doctor.
Fatigue: The body works hard to bear the growing baby, causing increased weariness. Sufficient rest and securing adequate iron intake are necessary.
Food preferences: Pregnant women often encounter changes in food cravings and dislikes. Giving in to cravings occasionally is bearable, but be careful of uncommon cravings like pica, which should be detailed to your doctor.
Repeated urination: The developing uterus puts force on the bladder, enticing to a persistence urge to urinate. Sustaining hydration but restricting caffeine intake, especially before bedtime.

Heartburn: Upsurge progesterone levels can cause acid reflux. Eating fewer meals, keeping away from lying down immediately after eating, and guiding clear of certain foods can help cope with heartburn.
Mood swings: Hormonal variations and increased tiredness may affect emotional ups and downs. Chase support from a partner, friend, family member, or professional if needed.
Morning sickness: Nausea, a usual symptom, can range from mild to severe. Eating little, bland, or high-protein snacks and staying hydrated may relieve symptoms.
Weight gain: While weight gain is foreseen during pregnancy, it's necessary to manage a healthy balance. Desire for a constraint gain of 3-6 pounds in the first trimester.

Your baby also undergoes rapid transformation duriing this stage of pregnancy. In the initial 13 weeks, your baby undergoes remarkable development, progressing from a fertilized egg to a noticeable fetus.

Major organs and systems take shape, highlighting the significance of avoiding harmful substances.

Steps to Secure a Healthy Pregnancy During the First Trimester

Pick a doctor: Pick on an obstetrician or midwife and inspect health insurance coverage.

Schedule prenatal visits: Manage consistent check-ups, talking over your medical history, lifestyle, and health habits.
Grasp prenatal vitamins: Include at least 400 micrograms of folic acid to help proper brain and spinal cord growth.
Address well-being practice: Leave smoking, illegal drugs, and reduce alcohol and caffeine intake. Alter exercise routines as wanted.
Assess your budget: Consider the financial side of having a baby, including childcare costs and possible adjustments to work.
Tell the news: Decide when and how to state your pregnancy, considering elements like hearing the baby's heartbeat and workplace policies on maternity leave.

Certain symptoms cause instant attention and should not be disregarded, such as serious abdominal pain, hefty bleeding, serious dizziness, or quick and abnormal weight gain. If you encounter any of these, contact your doctor immediately.