The first trimester of pregnancy is full of weird and wonderful things. If you don’t know what to expect, it’s possible you may think an alien has invaded your body, first time mothers especially. The first trimester is also the period when a woman is most likely to suffer a miscarriage. Knowing what to expect and what is abnormal could save your life.
1) Bleeding
It is common knowledge that a woman’s period stops when she conceives. In extremely rare instances, what seems like a menstrual cycle may continue several months into the pregnancy, if not for the entirety. This could be a sign of incompetent cervix or other, more serious issues. This is problematic since the first clue for many women that they may be pregnant is when their menstrual cycle stops. Heavy bleeding, especially if accompanied by abdominal cramps, may indicate a miscarriage. If this is the case, do not hesitate and go to the nearest hospital. It is rare that a miscarriage can be stopped, however it may cause haemorrhaging and severe blood loss.
A woman may experience spotting as well. This is caused by the embryo attaching itself to the uterine wall and is perfectly normal. However, if the bleeding persists or becomes more than a few spots a visit to your obstetrician is in order as soon as possible.
2) Cravings and Revulsions
It is a well known joke that women become very picky eaters during pregnancy. This is usually a result of the sudden increase and decrease of various hormones in the body.
3) Morning sickness
As the production of hCG and progesterone increases, it is natural for nausea and dizziness to occur. These symptoms usually abate around the end of the first trimester as the body adjusts to this boost in hormones, however some women experience morning sickness much longer, and not always necessarily in the morning. This nausea may also be instigated by sights, smells, textures or motion.
4) Fatigue
As the embryo attaches itself to the uterine wall and begins to develop into a fetus, a woman’s body is sending every possible nutrient to the womb. This makes it very important to partake in a healthy, well balanced diet and also take pre-natal vitamins. Naturally, as these nutrients are being re-directed, a woman may feel more tired than usual.
5) Breast tenderness
Progesterone increases also work to begin preparing the breasts for milk production. During the first trimester, the breast may become tender and slightly swollen as the body prepares to nourish a baby. Be sure to wear comfortable, well-fitted bras and you should not experience any significant discomfort.
6) Balance issues
The influx of hormones during the first month of pregnancy can sometimes cause poor blood flow to the mother’s body, affecting her center of balance if severe enough. A woman experiencing severe issues in keeping balance should see her physician immediately. Normally, these symptoms will abate as the pregnancy progresses.
7) Mood swings
Pregnancy induces an increase in the secretion of certain hormones within the body and decreases others, many of which have a direct effect on our emotions. Hence, something that may have caused you to be overjoyed one day may cause rage in your the next - and chances are that you won't understand why.
8) Blood work and appointments
Many physicians want to see their patients as soon as possible once a pregnancy is confirmed and will refer their patient for blood work. This ensures that any potential or underlying illnesses or diseases can be treated immediately. These tests also determine if a woman is at risk for specific illnesses such as Rubella.
Following a healthy, balanced diet is imperative during the first trimester of pregnancy. Eating when hunger strikes and until are full will ensure that both mother and baby are well nourished and ready to travel down the long road of pregnancy together. Expect to change your lifestyle in the first trimester and live healthy. This will ensure a healthy pregnancy, birth and baby.