Did you just find out you’re pregnant? Welcome to the first trimester! Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! You have a very small human being growing quickly in you, and it is probably the only thing you are going to think about during these weeks. Yes, it is exciting, but they are many things you need to know during this time. Here is everything you need to know about the first trimester.

When are you in your first trimester?

The first trimester is from week 1 which is probably when you had your last period to week 12 which is when the possibility of miscarriage decreases dramatically.

What happens during the first trimester?

Even though you probably would not notice any changes to your physical appearance during these weeks, a lot is going on in your body. Your fertilized egg is growing rapidly. By the end of week 12, it should be the size of a chicken egg, it should move and it can suck its thumb!

What are some symptoms you might have during the first trimester?

This trimester is quite difficult. You may be one of the lucky ones who don’t feel much, but the majority of you will understand what I mean. Some symptoms include:

• Morning Sickness: Morning sickness does not only occur in the morning. It will hit at any time of the day if not all day and night. Most women would have a loss of appetite, vomit and have a metallic taste in their mouths.

• Constipation: Keep drinking water.

• Mood Swings

• Food Aversions and Cravings: You will notice that you can’t stand some food that you once liked, and you will like some food that you hated before. 

• Weight Gain or Loss: Due to morning sickness, some women lose weight. Do not worry, you will gain more weight later on. 

• Swollen and Tender Breasts: An increase in hormones would possibly make your breasts swollen and hurt.

• Fatigue: Obviously, you will also feel fatigued. Your body is working extra hard to grow a baby in you, and if you are not eating enough you will also feel much more tired than usual.

What are some concerning symptoms? You should see a doctor if you have the following.

• Vaginal Bleeding: If you are spotting or have a heavy flow, call your doctor right away.

• Severe Vomiting: If you cannot keep any fluids down, call your doctor or go to the nearest ER.

• Severe Abdominal Pain and or Shoulder Pain: If you feel pain in your abdominal area or in your shoulder, call your doctor or go to the nearest ER.

• Pain While Urinating: If you feel pain during urination, call your doctor.

How much weight should you gain during the first trimester?

Even though you almost know everything about the first trimester now, you need to keep in mind that the baby is very small. You should not gain more than 4 pounds during this time. If you do, no worries. Just make sure you track your weight during the next two trimesters. If you lose weight, try to gain it back during the next two trimesters. 

Things To Do During The First Trimester

• Begin taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 mcg of folic acid.
• Eat healthy food.
• Drink water.
• Exercise 
• Read about prenatal testing, and do them if you want to.
• Begin doing kegel exercises to help prepare you for labor.
• Get your flu shot.
• Visit the dentist. Pregnancy will make your teeth and gums sensitive.
• Sleep

Things To Avoid During The First Trimester

• Alcohol
• Drugs
• Strenuous Exercise
• Uncooked Meat including Shellfish and Sushi
• Heat including Hot Tubs and Saunas 
• Cat Litter
• Smoking
• Too Much Caffeine

How to help relieve morning sickness?

• Drink water.
• Eat smaller meals.
• Avoid spicy food.
• Keep windows open to reduce odors.
• Take vitamins during the night.
• Reduce acid reflux.
• Eat dry crackers.
• Drink ginger or peppermint tea.

What to expect at your first trimester prenatal appointments?

During your first trimester prenatal appointments, expect an ultrasound. You will most likely see your bundle of joy, hear its heartbeat, and receive many pictures to share with your family. You will also have blood work done including genetic testing.

Now you know everything about the first trimester. If you still have more questions, leave a comment on the post.