First Trimester

Having a child is one of the most exciting times of your life. There is much to be excited about as you will meet your child and grow and develop together. However, there are many uncertainties surrounding the pregnancy process that can be aided with some foreknowledge can simplify and enhance.

The First Trimester

Most people find out that they are pregnant during the first trimester. The first trimester is the riskiest period for miscarriage and many people delay communicating about their pregnancy until after the first trimester has passed. While it can be disturbing to have a miscarriage during the first trimester, this is just your body’s way of removing fetuses that would be unlikely to survive and become a healthy child.

Be sure to visit your doctor during the first trimester as they can help to guide you through your pregnancy and the issues surrounding it. They will likely recommend that you take a prenatal vitamin (which should be taken even after you are pregnant) which helps to provide dHA and other valuable ingredients to your fetus as they develop in your womb

Your doctor can also help to guide you through the various feelings that you may have such as morning sickness and various forms of anxiety. While morning sickness doesn’t impact every pregnancy, it can be debilitating for some and learning how and when it tends to ease (typically during the 2nd trimester) can make the countdown easier to handle.

The Second Trimester

During the second trimester your fetus will continue to develop and the doctor will learn more about your child. Tests for various genetic diseases can be attempted through blood and urine tests during the second trimester. Your doctor will also provide you with the ability to learn about your child’s sex during the second trimester.

While weight gain is commonly associated with pregnancy, most of your weight gain will occur during the third trimester. It is important to eat a balanced diet during the second trimester and to avoid cigarettes and alcohol during this period.

The Third Trimester

During the third trimester, both your body, and the fetus, will experience significant amounts of weight gain. The fetus will continue to develop and this growth will put considerable strain on your body. Many women become at risk for diabetes during this time (which thankfully eases post-pregnancy) and you may be experiencing back pain, particularly as your body gets ready for the birthing process.

While giving birth can be painful, modern techniques and drugs greatly reduce the physical pain of the process. It is important to be prepared and have contact information on hand as well as your doctor group selected for the delivery, along with a route to the hospital.

Pregnancy can be an exciting and challenging time, but so is raising a child. Remember that once your pregnancy is over you will now be caring for a new living being that will require a significant effort to care for. Pregnancy is the start and not the end of your responsibility and be sure to relax and save your energy for the post-pregnancy period. You will certainly need it.