The first trimester of pregnancy refers to your last period’s first day to the end of the 12th week. Hence, during the first three months, lots of things are taking place in the womb. The fertilized egg divides into layers of the cell. Next, it goes into the wall of your womb, where it will continue to grow. The layers of cells become an embryo.
1. Grows Faster in the First Three Months
Compared to the other stage, it is at this time where the baby develops fast. The fetus develops a brain and spinal cord. Also, the organs will begin to form. The heartbeat starts this semester.
In the first few weeks, both arms and legs will bud. Likewise, fingers and toes will begin to form by the end of the 8th week. Within these months, you may also use a due date calculator. The calculator will add 40 weeks to the first day of your last period. Still, the due date is an estimate. It may or may not give accurate results.
2. First Heartbeat
Moreover, moms through ultrasound start to hear the heartbeat at the 6th or 7th week. Also, hearing the heartbeat of the baby at the 6th week is common. In some cases, scans do not detect the heartbeat. This case is still normal. It is better to wait until it reaches the 7th week.
Choose a transvaginal ultrasound. This scan is more sensitive than abdominal ultrasound. However, the latter may take longer to detect the heartbeat. The first one is more accurate because it goes into the vagina. Also, it has better access, and the scan will identify a heartbeat faster.
A normal heart rate of a fetus ranges between 120 to 160 bpm (beats per minute). Also, this range occurs on the first scan. As weeks or months go by, it may rise to 170 bpm and fall to 130 bpm.
3. Miscarriage is Possible
If there is still no heartbeat at the 7th or 8th week, it may be a miscarriage. Likewise, if you did a constant ultrasound scan and there is still no heartbeat, try undergoing a pelvic exam. Hence, do not assume by yourself. It may still be too early. Therefore, go to a doctor to ensure if there is a miscarriage.
4. Body Changes will Occur
Here are the changes to expect.
Bleeding
Studies show that 25% of pregnant women go through slight bleeding in these months. A light spotting suggests that the embryo is implanted in the uterus. However, severe bleeding may tell of a miscarriage. This sign often goes with feeling a sharp pain in the belly.
Sore and Tender Breasts
Furthermore, tenderness of the breast is one of the first signs of pregnancy. This sign is due to the changes in the hormones. Try wearing a bigger bra to feel at ease. After nursing the baby, you may wear your regular bra size.
Constipation
With the high level of hormones, the muscle contraction slows down. It will affect the movement of food in your system. The iron and prenatal vitamins you take makes it hard for the stool to pass. You may also experience bloating and burping due to the gas build-up. If these signs happen, drink plenty of fluids and check your diet. Add exercise to your routine to keep you moving. Eating fiber may also help with constipation. It will make the stool pass faster. Go to a doctor if constipation bothers you and comes with severe pain.
Discharge
In the first trimester, you’ll start having vaginal discharge. The fluid is thin and milky white. Do not worry as it is normal. Try wearing a panty liner to give you ease. Do not use a tampon as it might add germs into the vagina. In the case of having a yellow or green discharge, and the smell becomes awful, see a doctor.
Fatigue
You’ll get tired because your body carries a growing baby. Get enough rest and sleep. Do not overdo yourself. Lack of iron may make you feel more tired. Take foods and drugs that will increase the iron in your body.
Food Cravings
You may start liking foods that you don’t eat before. Your likes and dislikes in food may change. More than 60% of pregnant women have this craving. Beware of your cravings. Choose healthy foods over junk foods and unhealthy ones. The food that you eat may affect your baby’s growth.
You may pee a lot, gain weight, have heartburn and mood swings. You will also experience morning sickness.
5. Visit your Doctor
You will learn more if you go to the doctor. Upon visiting a doctor, you will undergo a full physical and pelvic exam. They will look at your full health history. You are not forced to undergo such exams. But by doing so, you and the doctor will know the risks and the actions to take.
The first trimester requires a lot of care. Avoid smoking and illegal drugs as it will affect the baby’s growth. Also, eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of water. Take prenatal vitamins. If you want to know when the due date will be, use a due date calculator.
