Pregnancy And Baby Care Pregnancy Trimesters Pregnancy Trimester Symptoms

...called trimesters. Several changes occur in each trimester of pregnancy.

Pregnancy First Trimester Symptoms

The first trimester lasts from week one to week twelve and the 1st trimester pregnancy symptoms include nausea and vomiting. This is referred to as morning sickness, but can take place at any time during the day. This may be helped by taking smaller meals during the day that are light and easily digested. Menstruation may become very light during this time or in some cases it may stop completely. The mother’s breasts become enlarged and may become sore and tender. The nipples and the areola grow in size and also darken. There may be a frequent urge to urinate and tiredness and fatigue are common symptoms during this stage. Headaches occur and the mother may also experience many mood swings, along with heartburn and constipation.

Pregnancy Second Trimester Symptoms

The second trimester lasts from week thirteen to week twenty-six. 2nd trimester pregnancy symptoms include weight gain and significant abdominal swelling, as the uterus enlarges along with the growing fetus. During this time the mother will be able to feel the fetus move. The abdominal skin stretches and dryness may also occur. The breasts continue to swell in size. The nipples may secrete fluid called colostrum. The constipation, stomach upsets and heartburn continue during this stage as well. Nasal congestion and nosebleeds may occur. Fluid retention occurs in the hands and feet. A brown line becomes visible on the area between the navel and genitals. Due to hormonal changes, pigmentation can take place on the skin. Hemorrhoids can develop due to an increase in the pressure on the veins in the rectal area. Varicose veins are also common during this trimester.

Pregnancy Third Trimester Symptoms

The third trimester lasts from week twenty-seven to week forty. 3rd trimester pregnancy symptoms include backaches. Due to the size of the abdomen, the mother may begin to walk in a different manner so as to adjust to the weight of the uterus. The navel protrudes outwards. As the growing uterus pushes against the rib cage, shortness of breath may also occur. The fetus’ movements become visible from the outside. At this time, false labor contraction may also take place. This stage culminates with delivery and the birth of the baby.