Pregnancy is a very exciting time in a woman’s life. It is also a time full of questions, concerns, and excitement. This guide is meant to provide an overview of the three trimesters of pregnancy.

First Trimester

The first trimester of pregnancy is from conception to week 12. During this time, your body is going through many changes as it prepares to grow and nurture a new life. Here are some things you can expect:.

Physical Changes

One of the first signs of pregnancy is a missed period. Other physical changes you may experience during the first trimester include:.

Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness)
Feeling tired or fatigued
Breast tenderness and enlargement
Frequent urination
Food cravings and aversions

Emotional Changes

Along with physical changes, you may also experience emotional changes during the first trimester. It is common to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about the new life growing inside of you.

It is also common to feel moody or irritable due to hormonal changes.

Fetal Development

During the first trimester, your baby is growing and developing at a rapid pace. By the end of the first trimester, your baby will have:.

A heartbeat
Developed all major organs and body systems
Arms and legs that can move
Begun developing gender characteristics

Second Trimester

The second trimester of pregnancy is from week 13 to week 27. During this time, you will begin to feel your baby move and your body will continue to go through changes to accommodate your growing baby. Here are some things you can expect:.

Physical Changes

Physical changes you may experience during the second trimester include:.

A growing belly
Movement felt from your baby
All-day nausea turns into part of the day nausea
Heartburn and constipation
Minor swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles

Emotional Changes

During the second trimester, it is common to feel a sense of relief now that the risk of miscarriage has dropped. You may also feel more connected to your baby as you feel their movements.

However, some women may still feel anxious or nervous about the upcoming birth.

Fetal Development

During the second trimester, your baby will continue to grow and develop. By the end of the second trimester, your baby will have:.

Eyebrows and eyelashes
Lanugo (soft, fine hair) covering their body
Footprints and fingerprints
The ability to hear and recognize voices

Third Trimester

The third trimester of pregnancy is from week 28 until birth. During this time, your body will continue to go through changes as it prepares for birth. Here are some things you can expect:.

Physical Changes

Physical changes you may experience during the third trimester include:.

Increased discomfort due to the size of your baby and uterus
Shortness of breath as your uterus pushes against your diaphragm
Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
Difficulty sleeping
Incontrollable bladder

Emotional Changes

During the third trimester, it is common to feel anxious or nervous about labor and delivery. You may also feel impatient and ready for your baby to arrive.

Fetal Development

Your baby will continue to grow and develop during the third trimester. By the time you deliver, your baby will have:.

A fully developed brain and nervous system
Lungs that are ready for air
The ability to suck, swallow, and breathe
The ability to cry and respond to touch

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a journey full of changes and excitement. It is important to take care of your body and mind during this time. Be sure to eat a healthy diet, stay active, and get plenty of rest.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.