Approaching the end of my first trimester. Hoping the second one is better. Did any of you guys not feel like yourselves during the first trimester? Sometimes it’s very mentally draining.
WeMoms
2 Apr 2024
First Trimester Expectations
The 1st Trimester guide to find your daily routine
Embarking on the journey of pregnancy is an exciting but also bewildering time.
The first trimester comes with its own set of challenges and wonders.
Here’s a detailed, question-and-answer format guide to help you navigate these initial weeks with confidence and ease.
What Exactly is Happening to Me?
You may not look pregnant yet, but chances are, you're feeling it.
This is because your body is preparing to support your baby for the next nine months, leading to a myriad of changes and symptoms, from fatigue to flatulence.
Though these might be uncomfortable, they are signs of the incredible process occurring inside you: you're growing a child!
How Long Does the First Trimester Last?
The first trimester spans from week 1 to the end of week 13.
It’s a good idea to calculate your due date to understand your pregnancy timeline better, though dates might shift, especially if your periods are irregular.
What Symptoms Should I Expect?
Morning Sickness: Can strike at any time, not just in the morning. To manage, try ginger tea and small, frequent meals.
Tender Breasts: Your breasts may feel tender and swollen as early as week 6.
Mood Swings: Emotional fluctuations are common around week 7. If you're concerned, don't hesitate to speak to your doctor.
Weight Changes: A slight weight gain or even loss is normal. Focus on nutrient-rich foods rather than calorie counting.
Is It Normal to Feel Cramps?
Yes, some abdominal cramping and mild discomfort are typical due to several changes, including the embryo implantation.
However, persistent or severe pain should prompt a consultation with your healthcare provider.
How Much Will My Baby Grow?
Your baby starts as a zygote and will develop into a peach-sized bundle by the end of the first trimester.
Key milestones include the formation of bones, digestive system, sense of touch, and the heart beginning to beat.
First Trimester Must-Dos: What Are They?
- Start Prenatal Vitamins: Essential for your baby's development.
- Select a Healthcare Provider: Choose who will guide you through your pregnancy journey.
- Book Your First Prenatal Appointment: For a comprehensive health check and initial screenings.
- Consider Genetic Testing: Based on your medical history, this can provide early insights.
- Understand Your Health Insurance: To manage the costs of pregnancy and childbirth.
- Adjust Your Budget: Financial planning is key when expecting a baby.
- Prioritize Nutrition and Exercise: Essential for your and the baby's health.
- Maintain Intimacy: Safe and beneficial unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
- Start Thinking About Baby Names: It’s never too early to start compiling a list.
- Plan Your Pregnancy Announcement: Consider how and when you'll share the exciting news.
What Should I Avoid?
- Handling Cat Litter: To prevent toxoplasmosis.
- Overheating: Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and exercising in high temperatures.
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Completely off-limits to prevent fetal harm.
- Raw or Undercooked Foods: To avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Looking Forward: What’s Next?
Though the first trimester might bring some discomfort, it's the beginning of a miraculous journey. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so it’s crucial to listen to your body and communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns.
The second trimester typically brings relief from early symptoms and a renewed sense of energy.
Armed with the right information and support, you can tackle the challenges of the first trimester head-on, paving the way for a healthy, happy pregnancy.
Welcome to motherhood — an adventure like no other!
Dig deeper
First Trimester Check-Ins
2 min read
Common Complications in the 1st Trimester
3 min read
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Salina
15 Aug 2023
What could I expect from a doula during first and second trimester? My doula is NOT meeting any of the expectations I had when starting with her, but I’ve never worked with one before so it’s highly possible I misunderstood what she’d be doing for me. So if you guys could fill me in on your experiences I’d greatly appreciate it.
Qui
In your second trimester what would you like for her to be doing? Maybe u can just have a talk with her but I really dont think they do much till birth & afterbirth
27 Mar 2024
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Salina
Ig I was hoping for a bit more interaction. I’ve already paid a decent amount of money but idk this person and she doesn’t know me. I worry it’ll feel like just having a stranger there now.
Also she only seems to respond if she thinks she can make more money. I’ve had a few questions and her answer was pretty much she could help for extra cost which is understandable but not wat I expected…we don’t hav tons and tons of moneys…I needed support
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Lola
25 Jun 2023
Tired of this all day nausea. I’m in my first trimester. Please tell me it goes away after the first trimester.
Skylarr🩷 & Sedarrin’s💙 Muva👩👧...
Ooooowwweeeee different strokes for different folks.. I was sick my entire pregnancy with my daughter .. try eating saltine crackers
27 Mar 2024
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Amanda
30 Mar 2023
The first trimester I would wake up starvingggg now that I’m in my second trimester I haven’t been so hungry. Is anyone else experiencing this ?
🍹Jenni
It’s usually the opposite! 😂
27 Mar 2024
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Asia
For me I haven’t had much of an appetite.
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Shanese
1 Oct 2022
These migraines headaches are making me nauseous 😫😩😫😮💨, first trimester sucks
Taylor
honestly i’m sick as a dog 😭😭
27 Mar 2024
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Shanese
😫😫😫
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Ashly
23 Aug 2022
30 weeks tomorrow…… I think I reached my first trimester again 🤦🏼♀️
Ashley
Is it me or you can’t sleep at night ? Girl I’m 29 weeks today but I can’t sleep
27 Mar 2024
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Ashly
Every two hours I’m up
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Danielle 🦦🪷
3 Aug 2022
Just hit 14weeks. Hello second trimester 😍 please be nice to me. No more of the first trimester bull 🥺
Dominique
I’ll be 14 wks tomorrow 😍
27 Mar 2024
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Shailee
I honestly didn't feel anything until half way through my second trimester. I'm 19 weeks and 5 days. I'm surprised I didn't feel much. Aside from passing out and had to quit my job back in April. I'm glad my 2nd trimester is almost over. I'm looking forward to 3rd trimester to get it over with
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D
20 Jul 2022
I’m so happy this my last week in my first trimester. Thanks to my OB , I didn’t know second trimester starts at 13 weeks 🤣🫶🏾
Barbii
My ob said 14 🤣 lord it be confusing I’m 13+5 today 🤦🏾♀️
27 Mar 2024
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D
Ohh lol.. I was at my OB yesterday and I asked and she told me it start at 13 I also looked online and it says 13 weeks lbs.
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Emily
26 Jan 2022
Almost done with first trimester. I feel like I gained alot of weight. Anyone else feel that way? I'm only 185 lbs but I heard your not supposed to put on weight first trimester.
Isabella
I wouldn't worry about it too much. I'm only a a couple weeks in and my appetite had already picked up alot and I have gain 10 pounds
27 Mar 2024
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Emily
Ok because I am barely showing anyways. Ok thanks I'm probably being paranoid
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