The first trimester of pregnancy is one of the busiest times for your baby--but for half of it, you may not even know yet that you're pregnant. As your body makes accommodations for your rapidly growing and developing fetus during these first 14 weeks of pregnancy, you're likely to experience a number of symptoms. It's an exciting time of major changes for you, your partner and your tiny baby.
Emotional Symptoms
You may find yourself crying at unexpected times and for seemingly no good reason. You may find that you're particularly crabby and irritable. Don't worry--your body is just going a little crazy with the fluctuating hormone levels trying to prepare for baby's development. And once you find out the big news, you may be very excited--or terrified. Or, most likely, a little of both. Give yourself some time to let the news sink in and figure out how to prepare for your little one's arrival--you've still got plenty of time.
Physical Symptoms
In the first trimester, there are tons of possibilities, although you may experience none, few or all of them. Extreme fatigue is one of the most common and noticeable symptoms in the first trimester of pregnancy. You may need a catnap each day, even if you go to bed by 8:00 p.m. Nausea, and sometimes vomiting, are also common--at any time of day; not just the morning. Many women also notice that their breasts are extremely sore and tender during the first trimester, and may even feel a bit swollen. And even if your little peanut is truly only peanut-sized, you'll find yourself already running to the bathroom much more frequently.
Baby's Growth and Development
Your baby starts the first trimester no bigger than a seed, and ends around the size of a lime--that's some pretty serious growth. And by the end of the first trimester, most of your baby's organs and systems are formed. Of course, they need many more months in the womb to fully develop, but the groundwork for your baby's body is developed during these crucial months of growth.
Staying Healthy
Since your baby's organs and systems are forming during the first trimester of pregnancy, it's particularly important to shed bad habits and start eating well. That means no drinking alcohol and no smoking, taking a daily prenatal vitamin, and watching your diet to be sure you're getting everything that your baby needs. Ensure you're getting enough protein, calcium, and of course plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Looking Ahead
You've still got a long way to go in your pregnancy, but it's never too early to start planning and preparing for your little one's arrival. Start budgeting for your increased expenses, and think about getting the room ready. Enjoy every moment of your pregnancy, and know that a lot of the unpleasant symptoms of the first trimester often subside by the second trimester.
