The first trimester or pregnancy involves experiencing a surge of hormones that can cause extreme fatigue, all-day morning sickness and a heightened sense of smell.
Feeling blindsided by new food aversions or being lightheaded is perfectly normal. But, learning what to expect in your first trimester can help you face new symptoms with confidence. From figuring out why you aren’t showing yet to managing frequent trips to the bathroom, here’s the essential information you need to know to sail through early pregnancy.
The Exhaustion No One Warns You About
People often overlook the extreme fatigue of early pregnancy once they experience sleepless nights with their newborn. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it is typically caused by increasing hormones such as progesterone. Take this as a sign to slow down, as your body is working hard to support your growing baby.
Morning Sickness Isn’t Just for Mornings
According to KidsHealth, morning sickness tends to start around the sixth week of pregnancy and peaks around the ninth week. But, you’ll want to note that those familiar pangs of nausea can occur at any time of the day or night.
Your Sense of Smell May Become Superhuman
Developing a stronger sense of smell can come as a surprise for many women during early pregnancy. If the smell of toothpaste or someone’s perfume makes you nauseous, then it can help ease your anxiety to know this is perfectly normal.
Food Aversions Can Be Stronger Than Cravings
Between morning sickness and a heightened sense of smell, you might find that you no longer want to eat certain foods. As long as you still eat a nutritious diet, it’s okay to opt out of putting these foods on your plate.
You Might Feel Pregnant Long Before You Look Pregnant
According to WebMD, most women don’t begin to show a baby bump until their second trimester. But, you might still be feeling quite pregnant, even though no one else can tell.
Frequent Bathroom Visits Start Earlier Than Expected
Surging pregnancy hormones can generate increased blood flow to the pelvic area, which increases urination rates. You might also be hydrating more, which means those frequent bathroom trips are good for you and your baby.
Anxiety Between Appointments Is More Common Than People Admit
Having anxiety between your prenatal appointments is common, and it’s okay to give your doctor a call if you notice any worrying new pregnancy symptoms.
Emotional Whiplash: Mood Swings and Unexpected Tears
Pregnancy is often portrayed as a happy time, and it absolutely is for new moms. However, hormonal shifts can leave you smiling one minute and in tears the next.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness Can Catch You Off Guard
Feeling lightheaded might be a sign of low blood sugar or just a side effect of increased blood volume in your body. Either way, take your time standing up, and reach out for medical assistance if you faint.
Keeping Your Pregnancy a Secret Can Be Surprisingly Difficult
If you’re waiting to spread the news, you might find it hard to contain your excitement. You might also find it difficult to explain why you are turning down a cocktail or feeling sick after you eat.
First-Trimester Bloating Can Make Your Clothes Feel Tight
While you might be several weeks away from having a true baby bump, you might still feel like choosing clothing with an elastic waistband to ease discomfort from early pregnancy bloating.
The Waiting Game Can Feel Endless
Being at the beginning of your pregnancy journey can make your baby’s arrival seem far off in the future. Don’t worry, though. You’ll find those last weeks fly by as you prep for your baby.
Navigating the Unexpected: Practical Tips and Advice
Facing unexpected symptoms or emotions can generate anxiety or leave you feeling alone. If possible, try to tell a trusted friend or two that you can lean on for support. Making sure to schedule prenatal visits also helps you get fast answers to questions that develop in these first few weeks.
When First-Trimester Symptoms Need Medical Attention
According to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s important to seek medical attention for symptoms that include having a headache that won’t go away and severe vomiting. Experiencing a high fever, vaginal bleeding or extreme swelling in your body are also signs to call your doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reading through these common questions helps you avoid surprises during your first weeks of pregnancy.
Why do many people wait until after the first trimester to announce a pregnancy?
People tend to wait until the second trimester to make their announcement because the risk of pregnancy loss dramatically decreases after 12 weeks.
What are some uncommon first-trimester symptoms?
Having a metallic taste in your mouth, experiencing all-day sickness and developing a super sense of smell are all uncommon first-trimester symptoms.
What is the hardest week in the first trimester?
Morning sickness tends to peak in the ninth week, which can make it especially difficult for many women.
What should you avoid in the first trimester?
Now is the ideal time to stop using nicotine products, drinking alcohol and eating undercooked meat.
Is it normal to feel anxious during early pregnancy?
Yes, your body is going through rapid hormone changes, and you may feel anxious about your baby’s development.
What do you wish you had known before the first trimester?
Many women say they wish they’d known how tired they could be when their baby was still so tiny.
When should you call your healthcare provider during the first trimester?
Call your healthcare provider at the first sign of vaginal bleeding, excessive vomiting and any life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing.
Is bloating normal in the first trimester?
Yes, bloating in the first trimester is normal and often related to hormonal changes.
Why am I so tired during early pregnancy?
Your body is working hard to grow a placenta and increase blood volume to support your baby.
Can pregnancy symptoms come and go in the first trimester?
Yes, pregnancy symptoms can change from one day to the next depending on factors such as your hormone levels, sleep the night before and overall health.
