First Trimester of Pregnancy –An Overview

Many women experience a mixture of fear and excitement when they first learn that they are pregnant. This generally depends on whether the pregnancy was anticipated or not. Many women have had disappointing experiences in their desire to have children. Such women get ecstatic with such news. However, for those who may have fallen into the situation unknowingly, there is a mixture of fear and anxiety.

Though you may not know it, your body undergoes tremendous change during the first trimester. In the first few weeks the hormone levels increase as your body prepares to accommodate the fetus in the womb. Your body also increases blood supply to deliver vital nutrients to the new being in your body. These new events in your life are bound to bring about some reactions in your body such as fatigue, morning sickness, headaches and dizziness. To handle this, you need to reduce the amount of activities you undertake and have plenty of rest.

As the pregnancy progresses from the first few weeks to the first month, women experience conflicting emotions. They worry about how they will fare as new mothers and how they will cope with the newborn child. They worry about the changes and sacrifices they will have to make. For others the concern is whether they will be to carry the pregnancy to term. This is a fear that haunts anyone who has had a miscarriage in the past. Pregnant women also experience contrasting mood swings. One moment they may be very excited and joyful, at other times sad and lonely. The sudden mood swings are caused by hormonal changes in the body as it prepares to accommodate the fetus.

It is important for the expectant woman to do some exercises. However before registering with any fitness club, talk to the doctor. With the doctor’s approval, start the training program slowly and gradually. If for some reason you feel pain in your body, then it is advisable to stop the training program immediately. Discontinue if you experience vaginal bleeding or lack of fetal movement in your womb for a long time. Exercise has a number of benefits such as better sleep, and improved chances of having an easier labor and delivery. Exercise also makes you regain your figure much faster after delivery. Recommended exercises include aerobics, swimming and taking a walk for around 30 minutes. Exercises should be done in moderation. A slight rise in body temperature may cause reduction of blood supply to the fetus. Avoid any contact sport such as soccer or basketball to reduce risk of injury to the unborn child.

To ensure fetus’ continued growth, eat a balanced diet full of nutritious foods. Your diet should consist of plenty of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and healthy fats. Avoid consuming simple carbohydrates such as chips and cookies. Instead, take in healthy amounts of complex carbohydrates such as legumes, vegetables, whole grain bread and beans. Increase your protein intake as well. Avoid using caffeine products and alcoholic drinks in the first trimester. Stay away from hot tubs and saunas to avoid overheating.