What to Expect During Your First Trimester
Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy, you should schedule a prenatal appointment to assess your overall health and identify any possible risk factors. You will likely be asked to schedule regular checkups about once every four weeks, depending on your doctor’s preference and protocol, to continue monitoring your health and the health of your growing baby.
The first trimester of a pregnancy begins at the moment of conception, and it is filled with LOTS of changes. As your body begins growing a baby, you will experience a surge of hormones. And this process can create some difficult symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Food cravings
- Food aversions
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Lack of appetite
- Mood swings
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
- Heartburn
- Headaches
Don’t panic! Each woman is different and will experience a different combination of these symptoms. Most of them should subside as you move further along in your pregnancy and adjust to the hormonal changes.
Your baby is changing rapidly during the first trimester when the brain, spinal cord, and other organs begin to form. Their fingers and toes will take shape too. And baby’s heart will start beating 18 to 21 days after conception.
Certain foods, as well as alcohol and too much caffeine, can be bad for the baby. So you should do some research and become aware of what things aren’t safe to consume while you’re pregnant. And ask your physician about any medications that should be avoided.
If you’ve recently discovered you’re pregnant, please contact us at Prestonwood Pregnancy Center today to book your no-cost pregnancy test and ultrasound. We are here to discuss your options in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment.