Pregnancy Month by Month
Pregnancy is divided into 3 trimesters. The word trimester means “3 months.” However, a normal pregnancy is 40 weeks, a bit longer than 9 months. The first trimester takes place from last menstrual period to end of 12 weeks. The second trimester is from week 13 to end of week 26 And the third trimester is from week 27 through labor and delivery. Of course, delivery varies, but it averages at week 40.
1st Month
The earliest symptoms of pregnancy differ from person to person. For most, this is the month you discover you’re pregnant – and that positive pregnancy test (and a missed period) may be the only sign you have.
Changes you may experience
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Nausea – the earliest signs of “morning sickness” can appear in the first month.
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Breast Tenderness – your breasts or nipples may be swollen and tender to the touch.
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Fatigue – you may feel tired as your body adjusts to hormonal changes.
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Frequent Urination – a common side effect of the production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) which causes an increased need to urinate in early pregnancy.
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Food Sensitivity – just the smell of food may turn your stomach.
How your baby is developing ?
Your baby is only .1 to .2 millimeters and at this stage is called a blastocyst. At three weeks pregnant, your child has already developed all his genetic material.
What to expect at your prenatal visit this month
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A pregnancy test to confirm the pregnancy.
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You’ll complete an extensive family medical history.
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The doctor usually performs an internal pelvic exam to check your uterus, vagina, and cervix or ultrasound examination directly to assess viability of the pregnancy.
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Routine blood tests and urine tests may be performed.
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An assessment of your health, including height, weight and blood pressure.
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You will be prescribed a prenatal vitamin and folic acid.
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Consult with your doctor about any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you take.