Although expecting a child can bring much excitement and joy, it also can be overwhelming and scary when you are not sure what is going on. Knowing what to expect when expecting a child may help you feel more in control of the process and able to focus on the positive emotions instead of feeling frightened or overwhelmed.
First Trimester
A pregnant woman's body goes through some amazing changes in the first trimester. The baby's spinal column, brain and other major body organs begin to form, and as soon as 6 weeks' gestation the baby's heart begins to beat. Your hormones are changing significantly, which may contribute to many early pregnancy symptoms including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, sore breasts, frequent urination and headaches, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. Although some women may experience no early pregnancy symptoms at all, many women are uncomfortable as their bodies adjust to the new hormone levels.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is sometimes referred to as the "golden trimester" of pregnancy because it doesn't have as much physical discomfort as the other two trimesters. It is also the time that most women start showing and first feel the baby move, both of which can be incredibly exciting and joyful events. However, there may be some symptoms that occur, particularly toward the end of the second trimester, according to the Mayo Clinic. Aches and pains may start happening more frequently, and swelling in your feet and ankles may occur. As for the baby, muscle tissues, skin, bones and organs continue to develop and the baby continues to grow in length and put on weight, although not as much as in the next trimester.
Third Trimester
Many women report feeling uncomfortable during the third trimester, particularly toward the end, states Planned Parenthood. As the baby grows, breathing and even just moving around gets much more difficult for the mother, and swelling and body aches and pains may get more noticeable and bothersome as well. In addition, trouble sleeping, difficulty holding urine and varicose veins and stretch marks also can occur during the third trimester. Meanwhile, the baby is busy putting on weight and even practicing breathing in preparation for making his big debut.
Labor
Many women are fearful of not recognizing they are in labor or getting to the hospital in time, but knowing the signs of true labor may help. Red or pink discharge, water breaking and consistent contractions that get more intense and closer together are signs of true labor. Women experiencing these labor signs should call their doctor or get to the hospital as soon as possible, according to the Mayo Clinic.
After Childbirth
The postpartum period is the time to start recovering physically and mentally from the pregnancy and childbirth. The physical process typically takes about 6 weeks, as the uterus shrinks back down to its normal size and postpartum bleeding comes to an end and the body begins returning to its pre-pregnancy shape. The mental process of adapting to life as a new mommy may take longer than the physical process. If there are any warning signs of postpartum depression, especially any suicidal thoughts or thoughts of hurting the baby, call a mental health professional or doctor immediately.
