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during pregnancy

04 February, 2012 | Publications

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What to expect during your pregnancy? Pregnancy is one of those times in a woman’s life that all sorts of physical, physiological and emotional changes happen all at once and it can sometimes be surprising and overwhelming. In order to better cope up with these changes, a woman should read and educate herself by learning what changes to expect during pregnancy so that she can prepare for them and simply enjoy the wonder of her fetus growing in her belly.

First Trimester The first trimester is usually the time when the most rampant changes take place. This is when you’ll first have an inkling of your pregnancy when you start feeling queasy and nauseated for no reason. Your breasts will also feel tender and a bit swollen which you might initially attribute to PMS but will soon find out it’s because you’re pregnant. You’ll also experience strange food cravings and aversions. Food that you used to love to eat, you now wrinkle your nose at. Food that you used to dislike you now find appetizing. You may also experience combining foods that are altogether not meant to be combined at all. Blame it on the hormonal changes that are wreaking havoc with your sense of smell and taste. Dizziness, heartburn and constipation are also symptoms experienced by most women. To top everything off, you will get emotional – weepy, anxious, happy, exhausted – sometimes all at once.

Second Trimester It is in the second trimester that you will have a bit of quiet, happy time. Their bodies have more or less adjusted to the changes and new ones are being taken in a stride. It is during this time that you’ll notice your stretch marks as your body stretches to make room. Your skin also turns a shade darker especially in the area around your nipples and in the line that runs from your navel to your pubic bone. You may also feel some Braxton Hicks contractions as your body prepares for childbirth. The contractions are usually weak and can happen anytime without regularity. But be aware if they become stronger and more regular, they can mean the onset of preterm labor and you need to contact your doctor. You may also notice nosebleeds and gum bleeding problems which are a result of increased blood flow in your system. Your legs may also feel cramps during the day because of the added weight and the increased blood flow. Just put your feet up at night, for about 15 minutes at a time, to let the blood flow back down.

Third Trimester By this time, you’re probably getting antsy and want to deliver soon. You are probably going to be riddled by backaches, frequent urination, some vaginal discharge, shortness of breath and heartburn as the fetus presses on most of your internal organs. You may even find it hard to sleep at night because finding a comfortable sleeping position is hard too. Braxton Hicks contractions may become more regular compared to your second trimester and take note of them especially when you’re nearing your due date. In no time at all, you’ll be on your way to the delivery room.

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