First Trimester of Pregnancy - Week by Week

Every pregnancy is different, that is to say that it is not the same for every woman. Not all women experience similar symptoms during pregnancy. However, it's very important for you to understand what may or may not occur during your first trimester of pregnancy. This will help you in reducing your stress levels as normal symptoms occur and will help you in knowing which symptoms need you to consult your doctor.

The First Six Weeks

The first 6 weeks of pregnancy are normally mild as far as symptoms are concerned. You might not even realize that you're pregnant until sometime between the 4th and 6th weeks, since this is generally the time when the majority of women notice their missed period. It is also around this time that you may start to experience some nausea and fatigue.

The Rest of Your First Trimester

Week seven marks the actual beginning of your baby's development. The baby will begin developing ears, nose, eyes, heart and other organs, and by week 8, the heart will be sufficiently well developed to be heard through an ultrasound. You should also be having your first doctor's appointment by this week, where in you're likely to get to hear your baby's heart beat for the very first time.

By week nine, your baby starts to develop bones. Arms and legs will also start to form. Webbed hands and feet will also start developing. By the end of week 10, your baby will be fully developed, even though it's still really very tiny! Around this time, if you have had nausea, it is likely to increase. Heartburn usually starts developing around this time as well - however everyone may not experience it.

In 12th and 13th week, your baby is growing exponentially in size. You'll probably find yourself very weary and you may need lots of rest plus additional nutrition as your baby takes from you for helping in its growth. It's generally around this time that the first sonogram is done and you'll get to see your baby for the very first time. You'll also be able to find out whether your baby will be a boy or a girl by this time - if at all you choose to find out ahead of time.

The good part is, as this trimester ends, most nausea, dizziness, as well as fatigue end with it. You'll feel a new sense of well begin and a burst of energy. Some mothers might have some lingering nausea, and if you have had heartburn in this stage, it is likely to continue throughout your pregnancy.

By the end of this time, your baby bump will begin to show to others, and you'll be in a position to get everyone else as excited about the baby as you are. This is the possibly the best time to start shopping for maternity clothes and time to clean the house. As you head into the second trimester, you'll probably start nesting, meaning that lots of extra cleaning and preparations need to be done for your coming baby.

First Trimester Precautions

Most miscarriages occur in the first trimester, so you need to be aware of any unusual cramping or spotting. While these can be natural and normal in the first 6 weeks of pregnancy, they may also be signs that something is wrong. Contact your health provider or doctor if anything doesn't feel right or if you are having any other concerns.

Always keep in mind that stress is your enemy while you are pregnant, and it's better to call the doctor unnecessarily rather than to worry excessively. Also make sure that you don't overdo it when your energy returns, meaning no heavy lifting!