A Month of Pregnancy
The exciting journey of pregnancy, with all its joys and changes that come with it, lasts approximately 40 weeks. Each month of pregnancy is divided into three trimesters and brings with it different physical and emotional changes. Here is an overview of each month to help expectant moms understand what is happening to them and their baby.
First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)
During the first trimester you can experience morning sickness, fatigue and mood swings. Your baby is starting to form vital organs and will be able to move its tiny limbs.
• Your baby’s brain development begins and its heart will begin to beat at around week 7.
• Your baby’s nose and eyes start to form, and its organs and limbs will start to develop.
• The pregnancy hormone, HCG, will be present in your body and can be detected in your urine.
• Confirmation of pregnancy will be done using ultrasound imaging.
• Your baby’s vital organs, such as the brain and heart, will begin to form.
Second Trimester (Weeks 14-26)
During this trimester, most of the physical discomforts associated with pregnancy begin to subside. You may begin to feel your baby move and have the dreaded “glowing” phenomenon of pregnancy.
- Weight gain will be prominent, as your baby continues to grow and your uterus expands.
- Your baby’s brain develops at an incredible speed and its vital organs will be nearly developed.
- Your baby’s sex will typically be discernible using an ultrasound.
- Your baby’s bones start to harden, and its organs will continue to develop.
- You will be able to feel your baby move as its muscles become more active.
Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40)
This is when you will start to accept the fact that a new baby is joining your life. Physical changes may be more prominent now: you may experience Braxton-Hicks contractions and intense baby movements.
- Your baby’s lungs are nearly completely developed.
- You will gain most of your pregnancy weight during this trimester.
- Your baby’s movements will become more frequent and intense.
- You may feel Braxton Hicks contractions and begin to nest in preparation for the baby.
- Your baby will be finishing up development and prepare for delivery.
Pregnancy is often described as an amazing, life-changing journey. By understanding what occurs in each month of pregnancy, you’ll have a better understanding of the changes you will experience and the progress of your baby’s development. That said, remember that every pregnancy is different and it is important to discuss any changes or concerns with your healthcare provider.
Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
