Your Guide to Pregnancy Symptoms during each Trimester
Your Guide to Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it comes with lots of changes and unique symptoms. These signs, whether common or less so, are milestones in your experience. They're a testament to the incredible work your body is doing to grow new life. In this blog, we'll walk you through the symptoms you might encounter during each trimester, offering guidance every step of the way.
Understand the common (and not so common) symptoms of pregnancy, every trimester. Each sign and symptom is a milestone in your journey and it’s handy to understand what and why things are happening for you and your body.
Let’s start with remembering that pregnancy is a miraculous and transformative experience. In order for your awesome body to grow a baby, it needs to undergo many changes - and with those, come some symptoms that are both common, and some less common.
As an expectant mum, understanding the symptoms that may arise during each trimester can help you navigate this period with greater ease and confidence. In this blog, we'll explore the common pregnancy symptoms experienced during each trimester and offer insights into managing them.
First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)
Morning Sickness:
Morning sickness (but can last well outside morning!) is characterised by nausea and sometimes vomiting and can be an early sign of pregnancy. While it can happen at any time of the day, the name persists due to its prevalence in the morning. Fear not, as there are a few tricks to managing morning sickness. Try eating small and frequent meals. Stay hydrated if possible, and usually, clear, cold, and carbonated fluids are tolerated best. Many women find having a small snack as soon as they wake up such as salty crackers can help.
The primary factor believed to be responsible for morning sickness is the surge in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen. These hormones play crucial roles in maintaining a healthy pregnancy, but their rapid increase can also lead to nausea and vomiting.
Fatigue:
The abovementioned hormonal changes are also responsible for the body's increased demand for energy, which can often lead to fatigue during the first trimester. It’s hard to believe that something so very small at this stage can make you feel so tired, but your body is making many rapid changes to support your pregnancy. Ensure you get plenty of rest, listen to your body, and consider short naps to combat exhaustion if you can.
Tender swollen breasts
Hormonal fluctuations can also cause increased blood flow and sensitivity in your breasts, resulting in tenderness. This can definitely be one of the first signs of pregnancy, and although it can be uncomfortable, wearing a supportive bra and using warm compresses may offer relief.
Frequent Urination:
As the uterus expands, it puts pressure on the bladder, leading to increased trips to the bathroom. It’s true that you need to continue to stay hydrated during this stage, but be mindful of fluid intake close to bedtime to minimise disruptions to your sleep.
Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26)
Reduced Morning Sickness:
For many women, morning sickness tends to subside as they enter the second trimester, offering a welcome relief. However, individual experiences vary, and some may continue to experience it to a lesser degree over the pregnancy.
Why? By the second trimester, your placenta has usually developed and taken over the production of hormones necessary for pregnancy. This shift in hormonal responsibility can result in a more stable hormonal environment for the mother, reducing the severity of morning sickness. It’s often a welcome relief.
Glowing Skin and Hair:
The second trimester is often dubbed the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy. Hormonal changes may contribute to glowing skin and thicker, shinier hair. Expectant Mum’s can often be told how much pregnancy suits them and how their glow is radiant. Embrace this period!
Growing Belly:
Your baby bump becomes more noticeable during the second trimester as the uterus expands. Invest in comfortable clothing that accommodates your changing body shape. There are many maternity brands of clothing available, however, fashion can enable you to enjoy your pregnancy without the added investment required into a new short-term wardrobe. Wearing comfortable clothing during your pregnancy will help you as you navigate your changing shape - especially later in the day when you can feel heavier.
Feeling the Baby Move:
Many women start feeling their baby's movements during the second trimester, often described as flutters or gentle taps. Some have described this as wee butterflies in their lower belly - it’s a buzz and can, at times be confused with bubbles or digestion sensations, but no … it's a wee baby in there! This milestone can foster a stronger connection between the mother and the growing baby.
Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40+)
Backache and Joint Pain:
The added weight of your baby, coupled with hormonal changes, can lead to backaches and joint pain. Practice good posture, use supportive pillows, and consider prenatal yoga or gentle exercises to support your body.
Some mums like to use a full-body pillow when resting to support their bellies or also have a pillow between their knees to ease the weight on your body during rest.
If back pain is becoming difficult to manage, a consultation with a physiotherapist can be helpful.
Shortness of Breath:
Swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles, is common in the third trimester. It can be hard to alleviate these symptoms if your day consists of a lot of standing at work or being up and about a lot. Elevating your legs when possible can help alleviate this symptom.
Swelling:
Swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles, is common in the third trimester. It can be hard to alleviate these symptoms if your day consists of a lot of standing at work or being up and about a lot. Elevating your legs when possible can help alleviate this symptom.
Braxton Hicks Contractions:
These are practice contractions that help prepare the uterus for birth and can sometimes be confused with early labour. Differentiating between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labour contractions can be tricky, so if you’re unsure, check with your maternity provider.
To ease Braxton Hicks Contractions, staying hydrated and changing positions can help.
Pregnancy is a unique and personal experience, and every woman may encounter a different combination of symptoms. By being aware of what to expect during each trimester, you can better prepare for the changes and embrace the journey towards motherhood with confidence and joy. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns or questions about your pregnancy symptoms. Let Wellington Obstetrics be your guide with a personalised pregnancy journey as your baby grows.
At Wellington Obstetrics, we understand that a healthy pregnancy requires care, planning, and attention. It’s part of our role to help guide the women under our care through this and be on hand for any questions or concerns.