The first trimester spans from conception through the 13th week of pregnancy. You may not see much of a bump yet, but these initial months are full of dramatic changes for both you and your growing baby.
At Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville, our expert OBGYNS, Daniel McDyer, MD, and Julian Stephen Suhrer, MD, provide comprehensive, compassionate care at every stage of your pregnancy. Read on as we walk you through what to expect in your first trimester and how to best support your body for a smooth, healthy journey to parenthood.
In the first trimester, your body releases a flood of hormones to prepare for the next nine months. While essential for your baby’s development, an increase in certain hormones can cause several uncomfortable symptoms.
Approximately 70% of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting, also called morning sickness, during their first trimester. For most, symptoms tend to peak at around eight to ten weeks and typically resolve by the 12th or 13th week.
Despite its name, morning sickness can strike at any time of the day or night. Try eating smaller meals throughout the day to minimize stomach upset while still getting your necessary nutrients.
Fatigue is often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. The hormone progesterone helps prepare the uterus for implantation and early fetal development, but high levels can leave you feeling constantly exhausted.
Your body works especially hard in the first trimester, so listen to its cues. Ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep each night and take naps during the day if you’re feeling tired.
Around weeks four to six, you may notice your breasts and/or nipples feel heavy, tender, or sore. This difference is the result of hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin, increasing blood flow to the area and causing changes in the breast tissue to prepare for lactation.
During pregnancy, your blood volume — the overall amount of blood in your body — increases dramatically, which means your body has more fluid to process and eliminate. Pregnancy hormones can also contribute to frequent urination.
While it may be inconvenient, don’t restrict your water intake — proper hydration is crucial. Instead, schedule regular bathroom breaks and only reduce liquids immediately before bed to minimize sleep disruptions.
Prioritizing your wellness in the first trimester provides a healthy foundation for the rest of your pregnancy. Here’s what you should focus on in those early weeks and months:
If you haven’t already, start taking a prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid. This B vitamin reduces the risk of your baby developing neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
A prenatal vitamin helps fill any nutritional gaps that may affect your pregnancy, but it’s not intended as a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet. Try to incorporate a variety of foods rich in key nutrients, including calcium, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
While you might feel tired and sluggish, consistent physical activity can help boost your mood, energy levels, and sleep quality. Aim for about 30 minutes of exercise each day as usual, but modify the intensity according to your comfort level and avoid any activities that put you at risk of falling.
At your first prenatal care visit, we review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and run a few routine tests to check for any underlying illnesses or infections. Depending on the timing, we may use a transvaginal ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and measure the fetal heartbeat and growth.
These appointments allow us to closely monitor your health and track the baby’s development, ensuring we address any potential issues early. They’re also an ideal opportunity to ask questions, express concerns, and receive personalized guidance throughout your pregnancy.
If you’re in your first trimester or trying to conceive, schedule an appointment at Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville. Contact us today to start your pregnancy journey with confidence.
