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26 August 2024 · Updated 11 October 2024

The first trimester of pregnancy - what happens to the mother's body

Lexy Pacheco

Lexy Pacheco

Focused chiropractic DONA, certified doula

Reviewed by Lexy Pacheco

The first trimester of pregnancy - what happens to the mother's body

Pregnancy's first trimester can be both thrilling and terrifying. A person's physique experiences numerous modifications. Before you even realize or confirm that you are pregnant, some of these changes could start. To help you prepare, it can be helpful to know what to look for and anticipate.

Path to well being

How do I know I’m pregnant?

Most typically, the first indication of pregnancy is a missed menstruation. There can be further physical indicators you have. When the fertilized egg attaches itself in your uterus, you may experience slight cramps and light bleeding.

You can use a home pregnancy test if you haven't had your period and suspect you could be pregnant. If you take these tests a few days after you anticipate getting your period, they are quite accurate. If the result is affirmative, give your doctor a call.

Why do I feel so tired?

Another typical early pregnancy symptom is extreme fatigue. Your body's adjustment to all these new physical changes is taking a lot of effort. Severe exhaustion may result from this. You might have to sleep through the night longer than normal. You can try to take quick naps during the day. Most likely, during the second trimester of pregnancy, your energy will return.

What is morning sickness?

Vomiting and nausea are the symptoms of morning sickness. Hormones related to pregnancy are to blame. In the first trimester, a lot of pregnant women experience it to some extent. Morning sickness is not limited to the morning; it can strike at any time of day. There are certain foods and scents that might make you feel queasy and even throw up. Some individuals appear to feel more ill when they are empty-handed. In most cases, morning sickness subsides during the second trimester.

 

Herbal pills and over-the-counter vitamins are available to help alleviate morning sickness. While it might not stop vomiting, taking vitamin B6 may assist with nausea. Supplements containing ginger may also reduce nausea.

What other changes can I expect during the first trimester?

Frequent urination 

You will feel the need to urinate more frequently as the first trimester. comes to a conclusion. This is due to the pressure your expanding uterus puts on your bladder. Even a small amount of pee may come out when you cough or sneeze.

Lightheadedness

Your body is exerting extra effort to produce more blood to sustain your unborn child. This may make you feel lightheaded or dizzy. Other possible causes of similar symptoms include weakness, hunger, or stress.

Heartburn

During pregnancy, the digestive muscles become more relaxed. This process is further slowed by changes in hormones. In order to allow your body more time to absorb nutrients, food also remains in your stomach for longer. Any of these factors may induce or exacerbate heartburn.

Constipation

Iron-containing prenatal vitamins should be taken on a daily basis. Constipation may result from the iron in the vitamin. Food digestion taking too long can also result in bloating, gas, and constipation. To help, your doctor could advise using a stool softener or fiber supplements. Make sure you consume eight glasses or more of water each day. Inform your physician if you experience serious issues. You might be given a different prenatal vitamin by them.

Visible veins

To fulfill the demands of pregnancy, your body produces more blood and your heart beats more quickly. This may make the blue veins in your legs, breasts, and abdomen stand out more. Spider veins could appear on your arms, neck, or face. These are microscopic blood veins that resemble a spider's legs and radiate outward from a central region.

Skin changes

It's possible that you'll notice a more radiant and rosy complexion. This is referred to as a "pregnancy glow" by some. Increased blood circulation is the cause of it. Hormones related to pregnancy might make your skin more oily. It can result in acne flare-ups for you.

Breast changes

Early in pregnancy, most women start to detect changes in their breasts. Your body adjusts its hormones in preparation for nursing. Your breasts may feel sensitive and puffy during this process. Little lumps may start to appear in the vicinity of your nipples. The growth and changes in your breasts will not stop during your pregnancy. Later on, they might feel even more substantial and full.

Vaginal changes

Your vagina's lining will thicken and lose its sensitivity. A thin, white discharge could be seen. This is typical of pregnancy. Spotting, or mild vaginal bleeding, is also typical and usual. But if you're bleeding vaginally, you should give your doctor a call. Visit the ER if the bleeding is severe or painful.

A growing belly

As your uterus and baby get bigger, your waist will start to sag. Until the second trimester, you might not notice this difference, depending on your pre-pregnancy size. Gaining little to no weight during the first trimester is common.

Emotional symptoms 

Pregnancy puts an overburden on your hormones. It's possible that you'll feel irritable, disoriented, or distracted. Stress and exhaustion might exacerbate these symptoms.

Things to consider

Remember that every pregnancy experience is different. Different alterations may occur in numerous pregnancies even in the same person. Your symptoms could be minor or severe after each change. If the modifications do not occur at a specific time, do not be concerned. Consult your physician if you have any worries.

When to see your doctor

If you suspect or are certain that you are pregnant, call your doctor. They will schedule a meeting to verify your pregnancy and discuss prenatal care with you.

If your morning sickness and vomiting are severe enough to cause you to lose weight, you should also get in touch with your doctor.

Questions to ask your doctor

  1. Am I pregnant?
  2. How far along am I in my pregnancy?
  3. What kinds of physical and emotional changes should I expect?
  4. Are my symptoms normal?
  5. Are there any risks that I should be aware of?
  6. Which prenatal vitamin do you recommend I take?

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