The joy you feel when you hear the news that you are going to become a mother is indescribable, isn't it? At the same time, during these first three months, your body and the little one growing inside you undergo many changes at an incredible pace. This period is what we call the first stage of pregnancy, or the first trimester. This period starts from the first day of your last menstrual period and lasts until 13 weeks. Being aware of what to expect during this time will help you prepare for the next few months.
What happens to your body in these first 3 months?
Pregnancy is a different experience for everyone. For some, the first three months are very healthy and enjoyable. For others, this time is very difficult. Let's take a look at the changes you may experience during this time, what they mean, and when you should see a doctor.
| Body change/symptom | Description and what you can do |
|---|---|
| Breast pain | This is one of the first symptoms that many people experience. This pain occurs when your mammary glands are preparing to produce milk for your baby due to hormonal changes. You may find relief by wearing a slightly larger, more comfortable bra. |
| Constipation | The hormone progesterone, which is secreted in excess during pregnancy, slows down the movement of food. The iron in the vitamin pills you take is also a reason for this. Eat more fibrous foods (fruits, vegetables), drink plenty of water, and exercise a little. Never take medication for constipation without consulting your doctor. |
| Frequent urination | Even though the baby is still small, your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder. That's why you feel like you need to urinate more often. Don't cut back on drinking water, but cut back on things like coffee before bed. Don't hold it in when you need to urinate. |
| Feeling very tired (Fatigue) | Your body is working hard to grow a baby, so it's normal to feel more tired than usual. Get some rest during the day. Iron deficiency (anemia) can also cause fatigue, so take the iron tablets your doctor prescribes. |
| Morning Sickness | This condition affects about 85% of pregnant women. Hormonal changes are the cause. Although it is worse in the morning, this discomfort can occur at any time of the day. Eating something small like crackers or cheese before getting out of bed, or drinking ginger tea before bed can help. However, if you are vomiting excessively and cannot eat or drink anything, see a doctor immediately. |
| Food tastes (tastes) | It's normal for your appetite to change during this time. You may crave certain foods, and you may even find the smell of certain foods unbearable. It's okay to indulge in a favorite treat every now and then as long as you're eating a nutritious diet. However, if you develop a craving (pica) for things you shouldn't eat, such as clay, chalk, or laundry detergent, it can be dangerous for both you and your baby. If this happens, tell your doctor right away. |
| Lower abdominal pain and bleeding | About 25% of pregnant women experience light spotting in the early stages. This can happen when the fertilized egg implants in the uterus. However, if the bleeding is heavy, accompanied by severe cramping or sharp pain in the abdomen, it could be a sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. See a doctor immediately. |
Other changes...
- Vaginal discharge: It is normal to have a milky, thin discharge (leukorrhea) during this time. You can use a panty liner for this. But do not use tampons, as they can cause infections. Tell your doctor if the discharge has a bad odor, is green/yellow in color, or is excessively watery.
- Heartburn: Heartburn can occur due to the progesterone hormone causing stomach acid to rise up into the throat. Eat small meals rather than large meals, reduce spicy, oily, and acidic foods (like lemons and oranges), and sleep with at least two pillows.
- Mood swings: Hormonal changes and fatigue can cause you to feel happy one moment, then sad or scared the next. This is normal. If you're feeling down, talk to your husband, a friend, or a family member about it.
How is your baby growing at this time?
During these 13 amazing weeks, your baby grows from a tiny fertilized cell to a fully formed fetus. Just think, all of your baby's major organs and systems begin to form during this time. So this is a very sensitive time. Exposure to things like drugs, certain diseases, and radiation can harm your baby.
During these first three months, everything starts to develop, including the baby's nervous system , heart, limbs, eyes, ears, and nose. It's truly a miracle!
Here are some of the main things happening during this time:
- The fertilized egg becomes a mass of rapidly dividing cells and implants in the uterus. The placenta, umbilical cord, and amniotic sac begin to form.
- The baby's nervous system develops from an open neural tube into the brain and spinal cord .
- The heart begins to form and beat. By about 6 weeks, this heartbeat can be heard on an ultrasound scan. It beats at a rate of about 120-160 times per minute.
- Major organs such as the digestive system, kidneys, and lungs begin to form.
- A soft skeleton develops .
- The baby is taking on the shape of a complete baby, with arms, legs, and fingers. The face is forming eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. The tongue and even the roots of the teeth are forming.
- By the end of the first trimester, the baby is about 2.5-3 inches (6 - 7.5 cm) long.
Things you need to do in these first three months
Although this is a very happy time, there are also some practical things you definitely need to do.
- Choose a doctor: Choose an obstetrician and gynecologist who is comfortable with you and whom you trust.
- See a doctor: See a doctor as soon as you find out you're pregnant. During your first appointment, your doctor will discuss your health history and lifestyle, perform any necessary blood and urine tests, and determine your due date.
- Attend clinics: Visit your doctor at least once a month, usually. They will check your weight, check your blood pressure, and listen to your baby's heartbeat to make sure everything is okay.
- Take vitamins: Your doctor will prescribe a vitamin that contains folic acid, which is essential for the proper development of your baby's brain and spinal cord. Take it exactly as directed.
- Be careful with your medication: If you are taking medication for other illnesses, be sure to ask your doctor about it, as well as about medications for common headaches and colds, and only use the medication he or she recommends.
- Avoid bad habits: Quit smoking, alcohol, and drug use completely. Limit caffeinated beverages like coffee.
- Eat nutritious food: Eat vegetables, fruits, milk, legumes, clean meat and fish to ensure good nutrition for both you and your baby. Drink plenty of water.
- Exercise: Continue your exercise routine. But listen to your body. You may need to change the type or amount of exercise you do. Talk to your doctor about that too.
Situations when you should seek urgent medical advice
If you have any of the following symptoms, it could be a sign of something serious. Don't wait to go to the next clinic, see a doctor immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- Severe lower abdominal pain.
- Excessive bleeding.
- Severe dizziness.
- Vomiting to the point of not being able to eat or drink anything.
- High fever.
Take-Home Message
- The first trimester of pregnancy is a very important time when big changes occur for both you and your baby.
- Morning sickness, fatigue, and frequent urination are common during this time. But be aware of warning signs like excessive pain and heavy bleeding.
- Take the vitamins, especially folic acid, exactly as your doctor prescribes.
- Completely avoid smoking, alcohol, and taking any medication without medical advice.
- If you have any concerns, questions, or fears, never be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.
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