Pregnancy takes place from conception to birth. The fertilized egg develops into placenta, embryo, then fetus. A completed pregnancy usually lasts around 40 weeks. Prenatal development can be broken down by weeks, months, birth classifications and different periods. As a means to simplify and standardize the stages of pregnancy, they are usually divided into three distinct trimesters. Each trimester is described in terms of how the baby is developing as well as changes the mother is experiencing.
First Trimester
The first trimester lasts about 14 weeks. Many changes take place in the body during this time. It is common to experience morning sickness, which may actually occur at any time throughout the day. Pregnant women also often experience tenderness in their enlarging breasts during this period. The University of Rochester Medical Center states that it is essential to take neonatal vitamins and minerals that aid in the development of the embryo, called embryogenises. The National Women's Health Information Center states that during this time, women can become extremely tired as their bodies work overtime to provide for a growing embryo. A woman may also experience cravings or distaste for certain foods. This may signal the body's specific needs for essential nutrients needed for embryonic development.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is generally seen as less exhausting to women, as they have begun to adjust to the changes in their body. The morning sickness and fatigue may subside, but new symptoms usually occur. These can include body aches in the back, stomach and groin. As the body grows and expands, tissue and bones are pushed and stretched to make room for a developing fetus.
According to Brown University, the second trimester is when a fetus starts to develop autonomy and move around the womb. The mother begins to feel movements for the first time. Pregnant women also often experience swelling in the ankles, numbness or tingling in the hands, darkened nipples, and stretch marks around the stomach, thighs and buttocks.
Third Trimester
The third and final trimester is marked by massive development in the baby's growth. A pregnant woman's stomach goes through the largest expansion during this period. The fetus goes through the final stages of organ development including brain, eyes, sex organs, and lungs. During this time, a woman may experience shortness of breath and heartburn due to limited internal capacity and upward pressure from the womb. Pregnant women may also experience hemorrhoids, insomnia, and early breast leakage. The University of Rochester Medical Center also states that women often begin to feel anxious, nervous, and even depressed during this time as they draw nearer to a completed birth. This is common and expected and support from loved ones should be made available.
