The first time you learn that you’re pregnant marks the beginning of an exciting journey.
Pregnancy usually is measured by weeks, and a typical pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. Those weeks are grouped into trimesters.
The first trimester starts on the first day of your last menstrual period and ends at 13 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. During the first trimester, your baby's major organs, limbs, parts of the face and eyelids start to develop.
Early-pregnancy changes
At this stage, your body starts going through significant changes to nourish the baby's growth and to prepare for labor and delivery. You'll feel different, both physically and mentally. Not every pregnant person experiences the same things. But typically, you can expect:
Fatigue. As your body becomes accustomed to supporting a new life, you'll feel very tired. Be sure to get enough sleep at night and take naps as needed. Fatigue often goes away during the second trimester.
Morning sickness. Pregnancy hormones can cause nausea and vomiting. Things that once smelled and tasted good may suddenly upset your stomach. Like fatigue, morning sickness usually disappears in the second trimester.
Heartburn, indigestion and constipation. Pregnancy hormones can slow down digestion. This is, in part, to give your body more time to absorb nutrients for your baby. You may also notice gas and bloating.
Breast changes. Your breasts will start to become larger, and they will feel swollen and sensitive.
Light-headedness. Your body is creating more blood for the baby. This could make you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Prenatal visits
As soon as you know you're pregnant, it's important to find an obstetrician (OB) and start receiving prenatal care. An OB is a doctor who specializes in caring for pregnant people and their unborn babies. An OB also delivers babies.
You will visit your OB throughout your pregnancy. The OB will examine you and do screenings and tests to help make sure you and your baby are as healthy as possible. You and your OB will discuss all aspects of your pregnancy, including labor and delivery.
If you are pregnant, schedule an appointment with a Watson Clinic OB-GYN at one of three convenient locations – Watson Clinic Bartow Building B, Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building and Watson Clinic Highlands. Call 863-680-7243 or visit WatsonClinic.com/OBGYN.
Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; National Institutes of Health; U.S. Department of Health & Human Services