It can be hard to know what’s happening with your body when pregnant. 

You probably have many questions about what’s happening during the first trimester of your pregnancy- don’t worry, we’re here to help!

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to everything that happens during the first three months of your pregnancy. From changes in your body and mood to common symptoms and concerns, we have you covered.

What is the first trimester of pregnancy?

The first trimester of pregnancy is a time of significant change and anticipation. It starts on the first day of your last period, before you’re pregnant, and lasts until the end of the 13th week. 

During this time, your body undergoes rapid changes as it prepares for your baby’s arrival. You may experience symptoms like nausea and fatigue, and your body will start to change shape as your baby grows. We covered everything you need to know about the first trimester symptoms of pregnancy in this article. 

Knowing what to expect will help you get through this exciting but challenging time.

Changes in your body during the first trimester 

• Bleeding 

One of the first things you might notice when pregnant is some light spotting or bleeding. This is perfectly normal during the first trimester and nothing to worry about in most cases. It’s often a sign that the fertilized embryo has been implanted in your uterus. 

However, if you have severe bleeding, cramping, or sharp pain in your belly, it’s important to call the doctor. These could be signs of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Either way, it’s best to get checked out to ensure everything is okay. So if you experience any bleeding during pregnancy, don’t panic – but do give your doctor a call.

• Swollen breasts 

Preparing for a baby can be exciting, but it can also come with some first trimester symptoms that you weren’t expecting, like sensitive or sore breasts. This discomfort is caused by hormonal changes and will likely decrease after a few weeks as your body adjusts. 

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help ease the discomfort. Try wearing a supportive bra, using a cold compress, or massaging your breasts with a gentle circular motion. If you’re still feeling sore after trying these home remedies, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for additional guidance.

• Morning sickness 

If you’re pregnant, you might be excited about the new life growing inside you. But you might also be dealing with first trimester symptoms like morning sickness. Morning sickness, which can strike at any time of the day or night, often begins one month after becoming pregnant. This might be due to rising hormone levels. 

To help relieve nausea, avoid having an empty stomach. Eat slowly and in small amounts every one to two hours. Choose foods that are low in fat. Avoid foods or smells that make your nausea worse. If you’re struggling with morning sickness, know that it’s temporary and that there are things you can do to find relief.

• Increased urination 

During the first trimester of pregnancy, you might urinate more often than usual. The amount of blood in your body increases during pregnancy, causing your kidneys to process extra fluid in your bladder. This increased frequency is most noticeable in the first trimester but can continue throughout pregnancy.

In addition to urinating more often, you may also notice that your urine is darker in color. This is because the increased blood flow concentrates the pigments in your urine. There’s no need to be alarmed by this change – it’s perfectly normal and will return to normal after pregnancy. So if you’re wondering why you’re running to the bathroom more frequently, now you know!

• Constipation 

During the first trimester of pregnancy, your body undergoes several changes. One of the most noticeable changes is the increase in the hormone progesterone. Progesterone helps relax the muscles in your body, including the muscles in your digestive system. This can slow down food movement through your system, leading to constipation and gas. 

In addition, the extra iron you’re getting from your prenatal vitamin can contribute to constipation. To help relieve constipation and gas during pregnancy, try to eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise regularly. If these measures don’t help, talk to your doctor about other options.

• Food cravings & dislikes 

Most women know that they might experience some changes in their eating habits when they first become pregnant. Some women find that they are constantly hungry, while others can’t stand the thought of certain foods. These changes are usually due to hormonal shifts during the first trimester of pregnancy. As estrogen and progesterone levels rise, they can cause a woman to become more sensitive to certain odors and tastes. 

In addition, the increased blood flow to the digestive system can cause a change in bowel habits, which can also affect food preferences. While these changes can be frustrating, they are usually only temporary and will resolve themselves as the pregnancy progresses.

• Mood swings 

One of the first things you may notice when pregnant is that you’re suddenly more tired than usual. It’s not just your imagination—pregnancy can take a real toll on your energy levels. When you’re first getting used to being pregnant, it can be tough to deal with the fatigue. You may find yourself feeling emotional and crying more quickly than usual. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be ashamed of. It’s perfectly understandable, given the changes your body is going through. 

The first trimester of pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster as your hormones go through some major changes. It’s OK to cry and feel all the feelings, but if you start feeling overwhelmed, try to find someone to talk to, like a friend or a counselor. 

About Millennium Medical Group

Millennium Medical Group provides top-notch neonatal care for newborn babies and vulnerable mothers. We take pride in delivering consistent, continuous care to achieve the highest quality of service possible. 

Consult with the best neonatal care provider today! Visit our website or get in touch with us at 855-222-9637.