FIRST TRIMESTER: WEEK 1- 13
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Highlights of the Trimester
The first trimester is a period of rapid change for both the baby and the mother.
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1. Baby’s Growth and Development
- Formation of Organs: The baby’s brain, spinal cord, heart, and other organs begin to develop.
- Heartbeat: By the 6th week, the baby’s heartbeat can often be detected.
- Limb Development: Arms, legs, and tiny fingers and toes start forming.
- Size: By the end of the first trimester, the baby is about the size of a lime.
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2. Physical Changes in the Mother
- Fatigue: Hormonal changes can lead to increased tiredness.
- Morning Sickness: Nausea and vomiting, often in the mornings, are common.
- Breast Tenderness: Breasts may feel sore or swollen.
- Frequent Urination: As the uterus grows, it can press on the bladder.
3. Emotional and Mental Changes
- Mixed Emotions: Excitement, anxiety, and mood swings are common.
- Bonding Begins: Knowing there’s a new life growing inside can bring joy and anticipation.
4. Key Medical Appointments
- Confirmation of Pregnancy: The first doctor visit includes a physical exam and confirmation of pregnancy.
- Initial Ultrasound: Done to confirm the baby’s development and due date.
- Prenatal Vitamins: Start taking folic acid and other vitamins for healthy foetal development.
5. Lifestyle Tips
- Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in folic acid, iron, and calcium.
- Avoid Harmful Substances: Say no to alcohol, smoking, and certain medications.
- Rest and Hydration: Prioritize sleep and drink plenty of water.
6. Warning Signs to Watch For
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping.
- Heavy bleeding or spotting.
- Persistent dizziness or fainting.
SECOND TRIMESTER: WEEK 14-27
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Highlights of the Trimester
The second trimester of pregnancy, often referred to as the “golden period,” is typically a time when many women feel more energetic and experience fewer pregnancy symptoms
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1. Baby’s Growth and Development
- Rapid Growth: The baby grows quickly, with significant development of organs and body systems.
- Movement: You may begin to feel the baby’s movements, often described as flutters, by weeks 18-20.
- Features Forming: Eyebrows, eyelashes, and hair begin to develop, and the baby’s skin starts to gain some fat.
- Hearing: The baby’s ears are developed enough to start hearing external sounds.
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2. Physical Changes in the Mother
- Baby Bump Appears: The uterus expands, and your baby bump becomes more noticeable.
- Energy Boost: Many women experience an increase in energy compared to the first trimester.
- Reduced Morning Sickness: Nausea and fatigue usually subside during this time.
- Breast Changes: Breasts may grow larger, and you might notice darkening of the nipples and areola.
3. Common Experiences
- Increased Appetite: You may feel hungrier as the baby grows and requires more nutrients.
- Back Pain: As the uterus grows, it can put additional pressure on your back.
- Braxton Hicks Contractions: These mild, irregular contractions can begin as your body prepares for labour.
4. Important Medical Appointments
- Anomaly Scan (Ultrasound): This mid-pregnancy ultrasound (typically done around weeks 18-22) checks the baby’s growth, organ development, and overall health.
- Routine Check-ups: Regular doctor visits will monitor your weight, blood pressure, and baby’s heartbeat.
5. Emotional and Mental Changes
- Bonding with Baby: Feeling the baby move can create a deeper emotional connection.
- Improved Mood: Hormonal levels stabilize, often leading to improved emotional well-being.
- Preparation Excitement: This is a great time to start planning for the baby’s arrival, including setting up the nursery.
6. Lifestyle Tips
- Nutrition: Focus on iron, calcium, and protein-rich foods to support the baby’s growth.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Safe Exercises: Engage in light exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to stay fit.
7. Warning Signs to Watch For
- Unusual Symptoms: Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or unusual discharge.
- Preterm Labour Signs: Be aware of signs like consistent contractions or pressure in the pelvic area.
THIRD TRIMESTER: WEEK 28-40
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Highlights of the Trimester
The third trimester is the final stretch of pregnancy, preparing both the mother and baby for birth.
1. Baby’s Growth and Development
- Rapid Weight Gain: The baby gains most of its weight during this trimester.
- Lung Maturation: The baby’s lungs are nearly fully developed.
- Movements: Baby’s kicks, stretches, and rolls may feel stronger.
- Positioning: By the 36th week, the baby often moves into a head-down position for delivery.
2. Physical Changes in the Mother
- Braxton Hicks Contractions: Irregular practice contractions may occur.
- Weight Gain: Most of the pregnancy weight gain happens now.
- Shortness of Breath: As the baby grows, it can put pressure on the diaphragm.
- Swelling: Mild swelling in the feet and ankles is common due to fluid retention.
3. Emotional and Mental Changes
- Nesting Instinct: Many mothers feel a strong urge to clean and organize.
- Anxiety: Concerns about labour and delivery are natural.
- Excitement: Anticipation for meeting the baby builds up.
4. Key Medical Appointments
- Regular Check-ups: Weekly or biweekly doctor visits to monitor your health.
- Ultrasound (if needed): To confirm baby’s position or growth.
5. Lifestyle Tips
- Stay Active: Gentle exercises, like walking, can help with circulation and stamina.
- Practice Relaxation: Breathing exercises or meditation can help prepare for labour.
- Prepare for Delivery: Finalize your birth plan, pack your hospital bag, and keep emergency contacts handy.
6. Warning Signs to Watch For
- Reduced baby movements.
- Signs of preeclampsia (severe headache, swelling in hands/face, high blood pressure).
- Symptoms of labour before 37 weeks (preterm labour).