First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

The first trimester begins on the first day of your last menstrual period and lasts until the end of

week 12. The development of your child depends on this stage. During this time, all of the

baby's organs and body systems begin to form. You may not look pregnant yet, but your body is

undergoing significant changes. Hormone levels rise, which can lead to common symptoms

such as nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness and frequent urination.

To support your baby's growth, it is essential to eat a healthy diet rich in nutrients, especially

folic acid, which helps prevent neural tube defects. Avoid smoking, alcohol and certain foods like

deli meats and shellfish, as these can increase the risk of complications. During this trimester,

your first doctor’s appointment will typically occur between 6 to 8 weeks, where a pregnancy test

will confirm your pregnancy and early ultrasounds may check for a heartbeat.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–28)

Pregnancy is generally thought to be most comfortable during the second trimester. Most early

pregnancy symptoms, like morning sickness, start to fade and you may feel a boost in energy.

Your belly will begin to show and you might want to invest in maternity clothes.

During this trimester, you may feel your baby's first movements, known as “quickening,” usually

around 16 to 20 weeks. This is an exciting milestone! Regular check-ups will include an

anomaly ultrasound between 18 and 22 weeks, where the doctor measures your baby's growth

and checks the organs. Additionally, screening for gestational diabetes typically occurs between

26 and 28 weeks.

Third Trimester (Weeks 29–40)

The last stage of your pregnancy is the third trimester. During this time, you will have more

frequent doctor visits to monitor your health and the baby's well-being. Symptoms may include

shortness of breath, swelling and sleep issues as your baby grows larger.

You will be monitoring the daily fetal kick count, minimum 10 movements should be perceived in

the period of 12 hours. It is important to stay close to your healthcare provider as you approach

your due date, especially if you are traveling.

In summary, each trimester of pregnancy brings unique changes and milestones for both the

mother and the baby. Staying informed and engaged with your healthcare provider can lead to a

healthier and more positive pregnancy experience