Getting pregnant is a wonderful feeling, but it can also be a time of many changes, both physically and emotionally. One way to prepare for these changes is to learn about the most common pregnancy symptoms.
Trimester 1 Symptoms (Conception to 12 weeks)
- Missed period: This is often the first sign that a woman is pregnant.
- Nausea and vomiting: This is also known as morning sickness, but it can occur of day or night.
- Breast size changes: Breasts may become tender, swollen, and sore.
- Fatigue: Many pregnant women feel tired all the time.
- Frequent urination: As the uterus grows, it puts pressure on the bladder, which can lead to more frequent bathroom breaks.
- Constipation: Pregnancy hormones can slow down digestion, which can lead to constipation.
- Mood swings: Pregnant women often experience mood swings because of hormonal changes.
- Weight gain: It is normal to gain weight during pregnancy. Most women gain about 25-35 pounds.
- Stretch marks: Stretch marks are common on the abdomen, breasts, and buttocks during pregnancy.
Trimester 2 Symptoms (13 to 26 weeks)
- Body growth: The belly and breasts will continue to grow during this trimester.
- Contractions: Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions, may begin during this trimester.
- Skin problems: Some women may experience skin problems such as acne, melasma, and stretch marks during this trimester.
- Nasal issues: Due to increased blood volume, some pregnant women may experience nosebleeds and congestion during this trimester.
- Dental problems: Pregnancy hormones can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding.
- Dizziness: Pregnancy can cause dizziness because of changes in circulation.
- Leg cramps: Leg cramps are common during pregnancy, especially at night.
- Vaginal discharge: It is normal to have a white or clear vaginal discharge during pregnancy. However, if the discharge is thick, yellow, or green, or if a foul odor accompanied it, it is important to see a doctor.
- Urinary tract infection (UTI): UTIs are more common during pregnancy. Symptoms of a UTI include burning urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or bloody urine.
Trimester 3 Symptoms (27 to 40 weeks)
- Contractions: Braxton Hicks contractions will become more frequent and intense during this trimester.
- Back pain: Back pain is common during pregnancy because of the weight of the growing baby.
- Acid reflux: Heartburn is common during pregnancy, especially as the baby gets bigger.
- Shortness of breath: As the baby grows, it takes up more space, which can make it difficult to breathe deeply.
- Varicose veins: Varicose veins are common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume.
- Increased urge to urinate: The baby's head will put pressure on the bladder during this trimester, which can lead to more frequent bathroom breaks.
