What to Expect: The First Trimester

Congratulations on your pregnancy! The first trimester is an exciting time for moms-to-be. As your body changes to accommodate your developing baby, you’ll naturally have concerns about what to expect. Here are a few things you may experience during the first three months of your pregnancy.

Bodily Changes During the First Trimester

Once you become pregnant, your body begins releasing hormones affecting many of your organs. You may experience first trimester fatigue, which is your body’s way of saying, “slow down,” as it adjusts to the transformation.

You may also experience nausea and vomiting, commonly referred to as morning sickness. Foods you once loved may now make you feel nauseous. You may also develop cravings for new foods or revulsions to others.

You may also experiences other emotional and physical changes, including:

• moodiness
• weight gain
• headaches

Though these symptoms seem to highlight only the negative, it’s important to remember your body is also beginning the beautiful journey of bringing a new life into the world.

Healthful Tips

Here are few tips on what you should be doing and avoiding during the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy.

What to Do

• Take your prenatal vitamins
• Get enough iron, folic acid, and calcium
• Perform regular, low-impact exercise
• Do pelvic floor exercises like kegels
• Stay hydrated and drink water throughout the day
• Prepare meals high in fruits, veggies, low-fat protein, and fiber
• Eat enough calories (about 300 more than normal)

What to Avoid

• Strenuous exercise
• Cat litter
• Raw fish (sushi) or cooked fish high in mercury
• Caffeine (limit to 1 cup/day)
• Alcohol
• Tobacco or illegal drugs
• Unpasteurized milk or dairy
• Deli meats or hot dogs

The first trimester is also a great time to find an OB/GYN. Having a team you trust is important and can help you monitor the health of your developing baby throughout your pregnancy. Schedule an appointment with a Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group OB/GYN to begin your recommended prenatal screenings.

Sources:
First Trimester Fatigue
Healthline | The First Trimester of Pregnancy
Healthline | Trimesters and Due Date | First trimester