What to expect in the 1st Trimester

Congratulations! There are amazing changes happening at this early stage of pregnancy. Often people may not see these changes externally, however you will certainly feel many changes inside your body!

The first trimester of pregnancy is from week 1 to 12. You may feel changes from as early as 5-6 weeks of pregnancy. The majority of women have some symptoms at 8 weeks of pregnancy.

It is important if you experience severe pain, vaginal bleeding, significant vomiting such that you can’t keep fluid down, or if you are worried, please consult your doctor or attend the nearest emergency department (ED), or call ‘000’.

Almost invariably, most of the things you will feel in the first stage of pregnancy are related to hormonal changes. These include a rise in progesterone (the hormone that usually rises and falls just prior to your period and which is responsible for PMS-like symptoms), and human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone, the hormone responsible for the pregnancy in the initial stages.  

Symptoms you might experience during the first trimester of your pregnancy

Absence of your period

The cardinal sign of pregnancy is the absence of your menstrual period. If you have a regular menstrual cycle, the first day of your last menstrual period can be useful in dating your pregnancy. If you have an irregular menstrual cycle, cessation of menses can be difficult, especially if you have vaginal bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy.

If you think you are pregnant, or you have missed your last period, please contact Mikhaila and I can organise your initial blood tests and ultrasound.

Vaginal bleeding or spotting

Bleeding or spotting is common in pregnancy, occurring in approximately 25% during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. There are several causes for vaginal bleeding, and although it doesn’t always mean you are having a miscarriage, it can be ery distressing.

If you are pregnant and have bleeding, please contact Mikhaila.

If you are experiencing heavy bleeding or associated with pain, please go to your nearest emergency department or call ‘000’.

‘Morning sickness’ : Nausea and/or vomiting

Nausea and vomiting is common in early pregnancy, although the severity of symptoms varies. Despite its colloquial name, it can occur at any time of day, or night. You may also experience cravings or aversions to food (or smells or tastes). This is due to hormonal changes, and usually starts to improve for most people by week 8 and for the majority by week 12. Staying well hydrated with fluid is important. If your nausea and contact Mikhaila or go your nearest emergency department.  

Breast enlargement and/or tenderness

This is due to hormonal changes in early pregnancy and often improves as your hormonal levels stabilise by week 12.  Wearing cotton, non-tight or compressing bra can be helpful.

Heartburn and/or Constipation

Hormonal changes result in relaxation of the muscle at the top of your stomach and your bowel. This contributes to heart burn and constipation. It is important to have a healthy, balanced diet including adequate fibre and fluid intake. Avoid any foods that worsen your symptoms.

Fatigue

This is very common especially in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Ensure adequate rest, which may mean more rest than usual for you. 

Urinary frequency

This is due to hormonal changes occurring in pregnancy that result in increased fluid retention and your growing uterus pressing on your bladder. If you experience pain with urination, please see your Mikhaila.

Emotions

This is due to hormonal changes occurring in early pregnancy. Emotional changes can include mood swings, sensitivity and emotional lability. Be kind to yourself and ensure adequate rest and relaxation.

What is happening inside my body that I may not feel?

Week 1-4

  • Fertilisation of the egg by the sperm occurs

  • The fertilised egg implants into the uterine wall.

  • The embryonic disc forms, which will become the body.

  • The neural tube develops, which will become the brain and spinal cord.

Week 5-8

  • The heart begins to beat

  • The arms and legs begin to develop

  • The brain and other organs begin to form

Week 9-12

  • The fetus is now fully formed and all major organs are present.

  • The fetus can move its limbs and fingers

  • The placenta is fully developed and begins to function

What you can do at this stage?

  • A healthy diet and exercise can improve energy levels, aid with sleep, and is important for you and the health of your pregnancy.

  • If you are experiencing nausea and / or vomiting, eating smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding high fat foods or other foods that are worsening your symptoms (can be different precipitants for everyone) and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. Ginger can be useful and vitamin B6 can also be beneficial.

  • Rest as much as you can / need.

  • Please call us and arrange an appointment to discuss your early pregnancy care with Mikhaila.

Ready for Pregnancy Care?

If you’re ready to start your journey with a passionate obstetrician & gynaecologist, it’s time to make an appointment with Dr Mikhaila Lazanyi.