A “normal,” full-term pregnancy is 40 weeks and can range from 37 to 42 weeks. It’s divided into three trimesters. Each trimester lasts between 12 and 14 weeks, or about 3 months.
As you may be experiencing now, each trimester comes with its own specific hormonal and physiological changes.
Being aware of the ways that your growing baby is affecting your body will help you better prepare yourself for these changes as they happen. It’s also helpful to be aware of the specific risk factors (and associated medical tests) for each of the trimesters.
Many times pregnancy anxiety comes from the unknown. The more you know, the better you’ll feel! Let’s learn more about the phases of pregnancy and what you can expect.
First trimester
Pregnancy date counting starts with the first day of your last normal menstruation cycle and conception takes place in week 2.
The first trimester lasts from the first through the 12th week of pregnancy.
Although you may not look pregnant during the first trimester, your body is going through enormous changes as it accommodates your growing baby.
In the first few weeks following conception, your hormone levels change significantly. Your uterus begins to support the growth of the placenta and the fetus, your body adds to its blood supply to carry oxygen and nutrients to the developing baby, and your heart rate increases.
These changes accompany many early pregnancy symptoms, such as:
fatigue
morning sickness
headaches
constipation
The first trimester is vital for the development of your baby.
The baby will develop all of its organs by the end of the third month, so this is a crucial time. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet, including adding an adequate amount of folic acid in order to help prevent neural tube defects.
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. These habits, and any drug use (including some prescription drugs), have been linked to serious pregnancy complications and birth abnormalities.
The first test that you’ll take during this trimester will most likely be an at-home pregnancy test that verifies that you’re pregnant.
Your first doctor’s appointment should take place 6 to 8 weeks after your last menstrual period. Your pregnancy will be confirmed by another urine test or a blood test.
A Doppler machine will be used, or an ultrasound will be performed, to ensure that the baby has a heartbeat and to check on the baby’s health. Your doctor may also order a panel of blood work to check your immunity, nutritional levels, and indicators on the health of the baby.
During the first trimester, the risk of miscarriage can be significant. If you’re taking prenatal vitamins and avoiding harmful substances, you’re already doing your baby a huge service and lowering the risk of miscarriage.
Some doctors advocate cutting out caffeine, though The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says moderate consumption (less than 200mg/day) is okay. Deli meat and shellfish should be avoided in pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
These dietary changes are believed to help decrease the chances of miscarriage even further and help you stay healthy. Speak to a doctor about specific diet changes that you may need.
The most important thing you can do for your baby is to be engaged in honest and direct communication with your healthcare provider about the choices you’re making, and follow their advice.
The first trimester is a good time to think about pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and parenting classes, and register for those in your community or online.
Second trimester
The second trimester (weeks 13 to 27) is typically the most comfortable period of time for the majority of pregnant people.
Most of the early pregnancy symptoms will gradually disappear. You’ll likely feel a surge in energy levels during the daytime and be able to enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.
Your abdomen will start to look pregnant, as the uterus will grow rapidly in size. It’s a good time to invest in maternity wear, avoid restrictive clothing, and if you’re feeling up to it, spread the news of your pregnancy to your friends and family.
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