Congratulations on your pregnancy! You might be feeling a lot of mixed emotions right now but one thing is certain... you're not totally sure what to expect. In this post we will talk about what to expect during the first trimester of pregnancy, common symptoms of pregnancy, and things to do in the first trimester.
What is the first trimester of pregnancy?
The first trimester of pregnancy technically starts BEFORE you're actually pregnant, and is often calculated from LMP (last menstrual period) to 12 weeks 6 days pregnant.
What are symptoms and changes you experience during the first trimester of pregnancy?
During the first trimester of your pregnancy, your symptoms may start out subtle before you even know you're pregnant. Symptoms of pregnancy can mimic the signs that you're period is coming soon. You might feel bloated and crampy, you might have tender breasts, and you will probably have changes in cervical mucus/vaginal discharge.
I know for all of my pregnancies, well into the first trimester I constantly worried I was about to miscarry because it seemed to be a constant cycle of cramping that scared me or a lack of symptoms that scared me, and then back to cramping. It's likely that all of the new changes will make you feel nervous, and maybe even anxious. Be sure to check in with yourself often and start building your community now. Connect with other pregnant women, chat with women who have been pregnant in the past, lean on your friends and lean on and learn with your partner.
During the first trimester you may start experiencing nausea (morning sickness) and cravings. Interestingly enough, both of these symptoms are usually directly related to nutritional deficiencies, so be sure to start taking a quality whole-foods based prenatal, and make sure you're getting plenty of variety of Whole Foods in your diet. Herbal teas can be a great way to manage many of the first trimester symptoms.
First Trimester To Do List
What things should you be sure to do during the first trimester of your pregnancy? After finding out you're pregnant, most new moms-to-be will call their preferred Obstetrician or Midwife to set up blood work and their first prenatal appointment. During the first trimester I would also recommend really focusing on a nutrition overhaul and possibly even meeting with a dietician or nutritionist.
Its never too early to start prepping yourself for birth and motherhood, but you might still be soaking in the fact you're even pregnant and not quite ready to think about birth. But that doesn't mean you can't take a class! Healthy Start Pregnancy can help you prepare for your pregnancy and learn how to advocate for your self in pregnancy. It can be taken anytime, but I recommend taking this FREE class during the first trimester or second trimester so that you have a head start on ensuring your health and your baby's health.
What symptoms are you experiencing during your first trimester? Be sure to comment below! Also feel free to share any wisdom, stories, or questions you have about the first trimester of pregnancy.
Jaimie Zaki is a Doula, IBCLC, and MOM of four LittleBears. Jaimie supports women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Jaimie offers Free Virtual support groups, prenatal classes for breastfeeding and birth preparation, and 1:1 support for birth planning, breastfeeding, and more. Contact Jaimie today with your questions and concerns about your pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.
Follow Jaimie on Instagram @littlebearbirthservices
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