Baby’s development

In the first trimester babies vital organs and the placenta which supports the baby inside the mother’s womb are formed. The Placenta also produced various hormones, which is necessary for pregnancy and will also results in some of the symptoms of pregnancy.

Changes to your body

Generally during pregnancy, women will have no periods until delivery of the baby. Some women however may experience a little bleeding from the vagina because of fixation of fetus to womb. But if bleeding occurs without stopping it is recommended to consult your Obstetrician as soon as possible.

One of the earliest changes felt by almost all women is  breast discomfort such as fullness pain and tingling sensation in her breasts.

As time goes by most mothers experience changes in the abdomen mainly in the lower part enlarging. Most women also complain of bloating and fullness in the abdomen again. Some lucky women go through the first trimester without feeling any serious change physically.

Morning Sickness
The first trimester is the time most women will have nausea,vomiting, fainting spells and body aches. This is usually referred to as morning sickness. This generally starts from the 5th to 8th week and then it gradually settles by the 12th or 14th week. Some unfortunate mothers have a case of morning sickness that can last throughout pregnancy.

Vomiting may occur in excessive amounts which might cause dehydration and may affect day to day activities which is not normal.It is important that causes like viral hepatitis, intestinal obstruction excluded first and after confirming pregnancy.

Frequent Urination
Most pregnant women will start to notice the need to urinate more. The pregnant woman will experience increased frequency of urination.

Once you confirm your pregnancy by and obstetrician it is important to get registered in the local antenatal clinic in your residing area.

Tips for the first trimester

  • Handling morning sickness – severe cases will need medication for relief
  • Breast discomfort  – Wearing supportive bras will help ease discomfort
  • Travelling – Prepare yourself before travelling as you might need to make stops due to the need to urinate more often
  • Working while being pregnant – You might be keeping your pregnancy a secret, but if you are a working woman you will need to tell your employer in case you need to take a break
  • Don’t miss your scheduled doctor appointements

Doctors appointment – What to expect in the first trimester

  • Pregnancy Test
  • Ultrasonography
  • Medical Problems such as hypertension, or diabetes mellitus is asessed
  • Weight check
  • Medication and Vitamin supplements are adviced to be taken – Folic acid is one of these suplements