As we all know, a normal pregnancy lasts around 9 months. However, for the sake of easy monitoring of the progress, the associated healthcare workers including, doctors, nurses, midwives, etc. break this period up into 3 trimesters. Trimesters are particularly helpful, since the changes that occur in a woman’s body during pregnancy and the growth and development of the child in her womb, can be broadly categorized early, middle and late pregnancy. These are called the First, Second and Third trimesters.

What is the 1st Trimester?

The first trimester of your pregnancy is counted from the first day of your last period to week 12 of your pregnancy. This is the time when your body is undergoing a lot of hormonal changes, that are likely to impact you both physically and mentally.

Your body will change

Your breasts will become larger, heavier and tender. Your uterus will grow and begin putting pressure on your bladder thus increasing your urge to urinate more often. Pregnancy affects different women in different ways, while some may have certain food cravings, others may have food aversions. Morning sickness is a common problem that most women face. Some, lucky ones, remain unaffected, and can continue with their normal daily routines without any change or discomfort.

You are likely to be on an emotional roller-coaster!

As your body goes through hormonal changes, you may experience a range of emotions. You are likely to feel moody, irritable and emotionally drained. These feelings are normal. But if you feel depressed or anxious then share your feelings with your partner/family and your doctor.

Your baby is developing

During this period your baby is developing too. From being an ovum to a foetus. By the end of 12 weeks your baby’s heart will start beating and brain, stomach, intestine will begin to develop. His/her arms and legs will begin to grow.

Your check-up routine

Post confirmation of your pregnancy, health checks during the first trimester usually happen at gaps of 4 to 6 weeks. This can, however, vary depending on various factors like how your baby is developing, your health status and allied complications. You may be offered an ultrasound scan at the end of 12 weeks to hear the heartbeat of your child and estimate the baby’s size and due date. Apart from this, you will have to undergo the following:

• Periodic blood tests to check your iron levels, blood sugar, and detect infections (if any).
• Urine tests to detect urinary infections so that they can be treated immediately.
• General health and wellbeing checks, that would include both your physical and mental wellbeing.

Do’s & don’ts

• Quit smoking if you are a smoker
• Avoid alcohol
• Focus on wholesome, nutritious food. Remember, it is the quality and not quantity of food that matters. You baby shall need nutrition to develop
• You may need folic acid and iodine supplements, but only if the doctor advises it
• Regular exercise is a must. Movement will help both you and your baby. So, stay active
• Do not self-medicate. If you experience any problems with your health, then talk to your doctor