Pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, counting from the first day of your last normal period. The weeks are grouped into three
trimesters.
First Trimester (Week 1 -12):
On the first trimester, your body undergoes hormonal changes that affect almost every organ system in your body. Most miscarriages occur during this stage; henceforth, extra care must be observed. Hormonal changes may include the following:
Extreme Tiredness.
Tender or swollen breast.
Upset stomach with or without throwing up (morning sickness).
Cravings or distaste for certain foods.
Mood swings.
Constipation.
Headache.
Heartburn.
Weight gain.
Second Trimester (Week 13 -28):
Second trimester is easier than the first. Your abdomen will expand as your baby continues to grow.
Gender of the baby can be determine at this stage. As your body changes, you may observe the
following:
Carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness of hand).
Body ache, such as back, abdomen, groin or thigh pain.
Stretch marks develop on abdomen, breast, thighs or buttocks.
Darkening of the skin around the nipples.
Patches of darker skin especially on cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip-Itchiness.
Swelling of the ankles (extreme swelling must be consulted by a doctor as this could be a sign of preeclampsia.
Third Trimester (Week 29 – 40):
At this stage, some discomforts you have experienced during second trimester are the same.
The baby is getting bigger. Body changes that can be observed at this stage are the following:
Prevalence of hemorrhoids.
Shortness of breath.
Trouble sleeping.
Tender of breast due to colostrums.
Heartburns.
Contractions that can be a sign of real or false labor.
