First-trimester pregnancy can be overwhelming. Understand the changes you may experience and how to take care of yourself during this exciting time of your womanhood!
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The first trimester of pregnancy is marked by a remarkably quick and amazing yet invisible transformation. Hormones trigger your body to begin nourishing the baby even before tests and a physical exam can confirm the pregnancy. Given below are some of the physical cum emotional changes to be expected during the first trimester and how to deal with them:
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Morning sickness begins as early as three weeks after conception. Nausea also seems to stem at least in part from rapidly rising levels of hormones, mainly Progesterone and Estrogen (that rule your pregnancy) which cause the stomach to empty more slowly. Pregnant women also have a heightened sense of smell, so various odours — such as food getting cooked or specific spices or perfume or cigarette smoke could offend causing waves of nausea in early pregnancy.
Must Read: Here’s a guide on how to handle the First Trimester of Pregnancy!
If you have morning sickness, fortunately, there are many things you can do to cope. Here are some time tested remedies that help relieve some of the symptoms of morning sickness:
• Eat several small meals every 2h per day instead of three large ones.
• Have some crackers and soda or water by the bed and try eating a few before you rise in the morning. An empty stomach often results in more nausea.
Must Read: What to Do in Your First Trimester?
• Drink lots of fluids, especially as water and other sugar-free fluids, as dehydration may occur in extreme cases (2-3 litres). If plain water is not acceptable to your palate, flavouring with drops of lemon / Orange Juice can be quite soothing.
• Ginger or ginger ale is well known for alleviating nausea.
• Eat foods that are high in protein and carbohydrates, especially accommodating a protein snack at bedtime like whole-grain crackers or a glass of Buttermilk or a glass of thin oatmeal etc.
• Avoid fatty or spicy foods, which are more likely to cause nausea.
• Get plenty of rest and take prenatal vitamins; take fresh air.
• Taking food and drinks separately can help reduce nausea in some women.
• Avoid strong odours or smells that can induce nausea.
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
To Know More: About Pregnancy Care Advice for Your First Trimester
• the nausea is severe
• you’re passing only a small amount of urine or it’s dark in colour
• you can’t keep down liquids
• you feel dizzy or faint when standing up, your heart is racing
• you vomit blood
Must Read: Your First Trimester Scan or Nuchal Translucency Scan
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The uncomfortable weeks of pregnancy are not the same for all, as every pregnancy is different. The 9 to 12 weeks (first trimester) of pregnancy are difficult for most women as they usually suffer from discomfort due to morning sickness, nausea and fatigue due to peak hormone levels. Some may feel uncomfortable during weeks 13-27 (second trimester) and 28-40 (third trimester) as they experience backaches and cramps, along with increased pressure due to the growing size of the baby.
In the first trimester, the good signs that indicate a well-progressing pregnancy include a missed menstrual period, a positive pregnancy test, and morning sickness. Most pregnant women experience breast tenderness, mood swings, and tiredness in the first trimester due to a peak in hormonal levels, which are completely normal.
During the first trimester, your healthcare provider can ensure the well-being of your baby. Performing blood and urine tests, checking fetal heartbeat, and scanning using ultrasound can help detect any potential issues in the first trimester.
There are no definite signs of pregnancy in the first week. Pregnancy is counted from the first day of your last period, so conception hasn’t yet occurred. Early signs like mild cramps, fatigue, or breast changes may appear only after implantation in the following weeks.
