First Trimester of Pregnancy: What to Expect
Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and exciting moments in a woman’s life. The pregnancy is classified into three trimesters. The most difficult and yet more exciting is the first trimester.
Normally, after the fertilization the egg spends 3 -7 days traveling from fallopian tubes toward the uterus. Once the egg reaches the uterus it will float for several days until it gets implanted into the uterine wall.
1 to 3 Month Pregnancy Symptoms
During the first trimester many women are not aware that they are carrying a child. Once the pregnancy is confirmed, a lot of changes will occur in a short period of time, both for the mother and the zygote.
The main symptoms of pregnancy include: fatigue, mood changes, dizziness, morning sickness, breast tenderness, food cravings, etc. Nausea and vomiting will more than likely stop by the end of the first trimester, though rare, it may continue throughout pregnancy.
First Prenatal Appointment and Tests
Once the pregnancy is confirmed, the first prenatal appointment is very important. A total check –up as well as a deep medical history are necessary. Once a woman finds out that she is carrying a child, a full physical examination is routinely performed. Other tests which are performed include:
- Blood type, Rh factor and antibody screening
- Complete blood count
- Rubella immunity
- Screening for Hepatitis B
- Screening for Syphilis
- HIV testing, etc.
Physical Changes During the First Trimester
- Vaginal bleeding – About 25% of pregnant women experience slight bleeding during their first trimester. Early in the pregnancy, light spotting may be a sign that the fertilized embryo has implanted in the uterus. However, if you have significant bleeding, cramping, or sharp pain in your abdomen, call your doctor. These could be signs of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
- Enlarged Breasts – result due to hormonal changes and high levels of progesterone and estrogen.
- Breast tenderness – result from high levels of progesterone and estrogen. The nipples may darken 1-2 shades, white bumps may appear, an increase in blood flow to the area may also bring out blue lines in the breast, which are actually blood vessels.
- Shortness of breath is usually caused by an expanding uterus or the hormone, progesterone.
- Fatigue – results from the stress that an growing infant puts on a female body.
- Irritability and mood swings – occur due to fatigue and surging hormones.
- Morning sickness and nausea – are very common during pregnant women. These symptoms usually go away after the first trimester.
- Frequent urination – occurs due to a rapid growth of the uterus, which puts pressure on internal organs, including the bladder.
- Constipation – occurs often during pregnancy as the high levels of progesterone relax the smooth muscles, causing the intestines to slow down.
- Discharge – thin and milky white discharge is normal during early pregnancy. If you notice any possible change in your vaginal discharge please consult your doctor.
- Heartburn – it is normal to experience heartburn during pregnancy as the body produces more progesterone. It is known that progesterone relaxes the smooth muscles, including the muscles of the esophagus, which allows the acid to get back from the stomach to your esophagus. To avoid the heartburn, eat frequent, smaller meals throughout the day, don’t lie down right after eating, and avoid greasy, spicy, and acidic food. You can also try raising your pillows when you sleep.
- Weight gain – during the first trimester it is normal to gain about 3-6 pounds. Be careful and don’t overdo it. You don’t need to eat for to. The most important thing is to eat healthy and various types of food in order to make sure your baby is getting all the nutrients he/she needs. Only 150 calories are needed extra during the first trimester of pregnancy. Get those calories the healthy way, by adding extra fruits and vegetables, milk, whole-grain bread, and lean meat to your diet.
