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First Trimester Experiences
by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
First Trimester: Mom's Experience
Congratulations, you're going to have a baby! Even though you don't look very pregnant at this stage, you may experience some symptoms that let you know a little one is on the way.
The first trimester is usually considered to be the first 13 weeks of pregnancy. As you progress through the first trimester, your baby will develop from one fertilized egg cell into a complex organism with all her organs in place, only needing to grow and mature before she'll be able to live outside your body. During this time, you may experience many changes as well:- You may become very fatigued.
- You may experience breast soreness, and even notice that your breast size has increased. You may notice a darkening around the area surrounding the nipple called the areola. As the blood supply to the breast increases, you may also see bluish veins throughout your breasts.
- You may notice an increased urge to urinate. This could be due to the expanding blood volume in your body, which can increase the amount of urine you make.
- You may experience nausea and vomiting. If you are experiencing excessive morning sickness, you may even lose weight in the first trimester. See your practitioner if you are unable to keep down liquids, or lose more than a few pounds.
- You may find yourself unusually sensitive to certain odors or aromas.
- You may crave certain foods.
- You may have an increase in appetite.
- You may gain weight. Although the fetus is very small in size at this point, your body naturally gains weight preparing to carry a baby. Your blood volume is also increasing, which contributes to the weight gain.
- Your menstrual periods will stop, although some women experience a little intermittent spotting in the first month or so.
- You may become constipated, which can be due to hormonal changes.
- You may notice you are having heartburn more often than usual. At this stage of the pregnancy, heartburn is most likely due to the changes in hormone levels throughout your body.
- You may occasionally feel dizzy or faint.
- You may experience cramps, similar to menstrual cramps. This is normal in early pregnancy. However, if the cramping is severe, or accompanied with vaginal bleeding, contact your practitioner.
- You may experience emotional instability, such as mood swings and irritability. You may have difficulty concentrating. These are due to hormonal changes as well.
Many of these symptoms will disappear as your pregnancy progresses, while others may continue until after you deliver your baby. Whether you experience some or all of these symptoms, remind yourself that they are signs that a life is growing inside of you.
Click here to join the discussion on the Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy
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Created November 14, 2000
Reviewed April 07, 2003
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