What does Pregnancy Look Like?
Pregnancy is an exciting journey for any expecting mother, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. As the baby develops, certain changes take place in the mother’s body and this can be quite a roller-coaster ride of emotions. It is important to know what to expect throughout the pregnancy period in order to stay healthy and ensure a safe delivery.
First Trimester
The first trimester of pregnancy lasts from week 1 to the end of week 12. During this period, the baby’s major organs and body systems will begin to form. During this time, some common changes in the mother’s body are:
- Morning Sickness: A common symptom of pregnancy, nausea and vomiting can occur in the morning and extend throughout the day.
- Fatigue: Many women experience extreme levels of fatigue during this period due to the hormonal changes that are occurring in the body.
- Breast Changes: Breasts may become tender and swollen as the body prepares to nurse the newborn.
Second Trimester
The second trimester of pregnancy lasts from week 13 to the end of week 27. During this period, the baby’s body continues to grow and develop. Common changes in the mother’s body are:
- Weight Gain: You may begin to experience weight gain at this time as the baby begins to grow.
- Emotional Changes: This is due to the increased levels of hormones in the body. You may experience emotions such as joy, sadness or even fear.
- Movement: You will begin to feel your baby moving as they develop and grow.
- Back Pain: As your baby grows, your body will need to accommodate their development and you may begin to experience back pain due to the extra weight.
Third Trimester
The third trimester of pregnancy lasts from week 28 to the end of week 40. During this period, the baby’s organs and body systems will continue to develop and they will gain weight. Common changes in the mother’s body are:
- Braxton Hicks: Also known as “practice” contractions, these occur as the body prepares for labor and can be quite uncomfortable.
- Leaking Urine: This can occur due to the extra pressure that is being applied to the bladder.
- Nesting Instincts: Mothers may experience an urge to begin nesting and preparing for the baby’s arrival.
- Heartburn: As your baby grows, their movement can cause heartburn for the mother.
Pregnancy is an exciting and sometimes daunting journey for expecting mothers, but it is important to be aware of the various changes that can occur throughout the pregnancy period to ensure a safe and healthy delivery.
By understanding what to expect and preparing for any complications that might arise, you can enjoy the journey and help ensure the health of your baby.
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.
