Finding out you’re pregnant is an exciting time. There’s so much to plan for like decorating the nursery, picking out baby clothes, buying toys, and choosing a name. While your baby bump grows with each trimester, you’ll notice your own body is going through changes too. While pregnancy symptoms can vary, here’s what to expect your first trimester:
Morning sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most common symptoms associated with pregnancy and not one that moms-to-be look forward to. According to the American Pregnancy Association, it’s called morning sickness, but ironically you can get it at any time of the day. What causes it? It’s not exactly known what causes morning sickness, but low blood sugar and the amount of hormones your body can contribute to how you feel.
Food looks different
You never know when food cravings will strike so keep the snack cabinet and fridge well stocked. You might long for food you used to hate (now it just tastes so good!) or weird combinations (what else can you add mustard and sauerkraut to?). High levels of hormones can affect your sense of taste and smell when you’re eating for two.
Swelling
Another symptom you might experience your first trimester and well into your next two is swelling. At some point you’ll notice your favorite pair of shoes are a bit snug or that your ankles are looking puffier than normal. What causes swelling? Your body is making 50% more blood and body fluids than it would normally make so your baby can grow.
Mood swings
Pregnancy hormones are in full swing and you’ll experience some ups and downs during this time. Pregnancy is full of exciting moments, but it can also be stressful and tiring. Changes in hormone levels can influence the mood-regulating transmitters in your brain. Simply finding ways to manage your stress level will help.
As you near your second trimester, you’ll start getting some relief from the symptoms you’re experiencing now (if you didn’t experience much, lucky you!). If you’re curious to know how your baby is growing on the first leg of their trimester journey, you can see here.
Disclaimer: PerkinElmer and ViaCord do not endorse or make recommendations with respect to research, medications or treatment. All information is provided for informational purposes only.
Resources:
Morning Sickness During Pregnancy. (2020, May 14). Retrieved August 06, 2020, from https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/morning-sickness-during-pregnancy/
Bouchez, C. (2008, October 08). Pregnancy Cravings: When You Gotta Have It! Retrieved August 06, 2020, from https://www.webmd.com/baby/features/pregnancy-food-cravings
Swelling During Pregnancy. (2020, May 21). Retrieved August 06, 2020, from https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-concerns/swelling-during-pregnancy/
Mood Swings During Pregnancy. (2020, June 03). Retrieved August 06, 2020, from https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/mood-swings-during-pregnancy/
