For women, pregnancy is a life-changing experience. When an expecting mother becomes pregnant, she should prepare herself for various physical changes to her body over three trimesters.

These changes occur due to hormonal shifts and the preparation of the body for childbirth. Understanding the physical changes during pregnancy trimesters will help expecting mothers prepare themselves for the changes ahead.

First Trimester

The first trimester lasts from conception to the end of the 12th week. During the first trimester, the fertilized egg implants in the uterus, and rapid changes occur that affect various parts of the body.

Here are some of the physical changes that occur during the first trimester:.

1. Fatigue and Nausea

The surge in hormonal levels and metabolism slow down during the first trimester. As a result, women experience fatigue and exhaustion.

Morning sickness is also a common symptom during this phase, where women feel nauseous, light-headed, and might experience vomiting.

2. Sensitive Breasts

Breasts may enlarge and become sore or tender due to hormonal changes, preparing for breastfeeding later. The nipples may also darken and become more sensitive.

3. Mood Swings

The sudden rise and fall of hormone levels can cause mood swings. Women may experience a range of emotions, such as happiness, sadness, and excitement, all of which are perfectly normal.

Second Trimester

The second trimester lasts from the 13th week to the end of the 27th week. During this period, the body continues to adjust to the pregnancy, and the baby grows rapidly. Here are some of the physical changes that occur during the second trimester:.

1. Increased Appetite

The second trimester is a time where women may feel an increase in appetite. This is because the body is supporting the growth and development of the baby, which requires more energy.

2. Round Ligament Pain

Round ligament pain is a common symptom experienced during the second trimester. This is where the ligament that supports the uterus stretches, causing a sharp pain or discomfort on one or both sides.

3. Fetal Movement

During the second trimester, women will often feel the baby’s first movements. This is an exciting time for most mothers as they begin to bond with their child.

Third Trimester

The third trimester lasts from the 28th week to the end of the pregnancy. During this period, the baby grows rapidly, and the woman’s body prepares for childbirth. Here are some of the physical changes that occur during the third trimester:.

1. Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions experienced by women in the third trimester. They are not real contractions but prepare the woman’s body for labor and delivery.

2. Shortness of Breath

In the third trimester, the baby is larger, and this puts pressure on the mother’s lungs, causing shortness of breath. To combat this, mothers should rest frequently and ensure there is enough space to breathe.

3. Swelling

The body retains more fluid during pregnancy, resulting in swelling in the hands, face, legs, ankles, and feet. This is normal, but women should contact their doctor if it occurs suddenly or severely.

4. Frequent Urination

The uterus expands and puts pressure on the bladder, causing women to frequently urinate during the third trimester.

5. Fatigue

As the baby grows, it becomes more difficult for women to sleep. Women should prioritize sleep to cope with the fatigue that is common during the third trimester.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a period of significant physical changes that expecting mothers should be aware of. These changes are an essential part of the body preparing for childbirth and ensuring the baby’s growth and development.

Knowing what to expect during each trimester can help expecting mothers prepare themselves physically and mentally for pregnancy.