Are you a first-time mother prepared to make it through the nine-month pregnancy? Congratulations! This trip is unlike any other; it is filled with anticipation, nerves, and planning, not to mention dizziness, backaches, a swelling tummy, and a lot more.
Even though every pregnancy is unique, many symptoms and feelings are the same. For new mothers, here is an inside look at each trimester of pregnancy.
First Trimester
The first trimester is full of uncertainty. When will the first signs of my pregnancy appear? What can I expect from my very first sonogram? Will I soon begin to show? How can I hide the fact that I’m expecting? What must I purchase? The list just keeps going and going.
You’re not alone in these feelings! All expectant mothers share these and many other thoughts.
Discussing the first trimester without mentioning those early pregnancy symptoms would be impossible. Yes, all of everyone’s favorite pregnancy symptoms—nausea, painful breasts, headaches, and fatigue—are there. While not everyone has the same experience, some combination of these symptoms usually manifests and makes you eagerly anticipate the 13-week mark.
Second Trimester
Welcome to the second trimester, which begins at 13 weeks. Most ladies celebrate this occasion with an expanding bump and more vigor! Your growing tummy may be making its appearance, and word of the baby’s arrival has likely already been spread among friends, family, and maybe coworkers.
On that point, if you are a working mother-to-be, now is a good time to discuss your intentions for maternity leave with your job. Yes, right now. There is much to accomplish before the baby is born, even if it may feel far away. Therefore, make sure you are aware of your company’s maternity policy. In addition, you will want to plan how much time you will need off work, and consider how your job will be done while you are away.
What, then, is the nicest aspect of the second trimester? Your child is developing rapidly. They’ll probably weigh close to two pounds as you get close to the end of the second trimester. This development is just so much joy to experience! Inside, the unborn child will be moving, kicking, and occasionally jabbing. Everything seems so genuine and fascinating because of this constant movement.
Speaking of growth, if you haven’t already, now is a terrific time to buy maternity gear. From essentials like pregnant leggings and belly bands to adorable accessories you may wear to your baby shower.
In the second trimester, what else can you anticipate? You can expect an anatomy scan! Your doctor will want a sonogram at the 20-week mark to ensure the unborn child is healthy. You can now learn the gender in addition to taking the ultrasound pictures of the baby home to put on display on your refrigerator.
Third Trimester
One thing is certain once you enter the third trimester: you can no longer hide your pregnancy, and you shouldn’t!
The third trimester is frequently marked by excitement and anxiety. Why? because the day you meet your adorable child is drawing nearer. Consider enrolling in classes, such as a breastfeeding class, a newborn care class, or a labor and delivery class, to aid in your preparation. You’ll be calmer the more prepared you feel!
You can also get ready for baby in a few other ways like:
- Setting up and decorating your nursery
- Checking out parenting manuals
- Taking maternity photographs
- Creating a birth plan
- Having fun at your baby shower
- Putting together your hospital or birth center pack or assembling your homebirth materials
Don’t forget to use one of the best resources you have at this time: your OBGYN or midwife. The number of appointments you attend will rise as your due date approaches. This allows you to ask as many questions as you need while ensuring the health of the mother and the unborn child.
What else should you anticipate in the third trimester? Backaches, soreness, insomnia, heartburn, fatigue, dizziness, and other symptoms. While this expanding list may seem overwhelming, remember that you are almost there, and every symptom will be worth it in the end!