What to Expect in Each Trimester of Pregnancy
Finding out you’re pregnant can be an exciting time. There’s a lot to prepare for, and it can help to know what to expect throughout each trimester of your pregnancy.
Your Genesis OBGYN provider is here to support you through every stage of your pregnancy. Expecting parents around Tucson, Phoenix, and Sierra Vista, Arizona, can learn more about each trimester below.
First Trimester
The first trimester of your pregnancy encompasses the first 13 weeks. The pregnancy begins the first day of your last menstrual cycle and is often referred to as the gestational age of the pregnancy. Your provider will calculate how far along you are based on this information.
During your first trimester, you may experience:
- Sore breasts
- An increase in fatigue
- Mood swings
- Nausea
Your body is working hard to grow your baby. When you’re pregnant, your hormone levels increase, which can cause mood swings throughout your pregnancy. The additional hormones in your system can also lead to sore breasts. Your breasts may also develop darkened areolas and other changes to your nipples.
Nausea, commonly known as morning sickness, is common and can happen at any time of day. You will likely feel tired since your body is doing more than it used to.
This trimester is a great time to schedule your first prenatal care appointments. Your provider can review what to expect from your pregnancy in more detail, perform check-ups, and recommend potential lifestyle changes.
Second Trimester
The second trimester begins at the end of the 13th week. By this time, your nausea and fatigue may subside.
Throughout your second trimester, you can expect:
- Your breasts and belly to grow
- Braxton Hicks Contractions
- Leg Cramps
- UTIs
- Dizziness
- Nasal and Dental Changes
As your baby grows and your baby prepares for birth, you’ll experience breast and belly growth. Your uterus will continue to expand, and your breasts will increase to make room for milk.
Occasionally, you may experience mild and irregular contractions. These are more common after exercising and in the afternoon/evening. These are Braxton Hicks Contractions. If they become regular or get more intense, contact your provider.
Leg cramps can become more common at night. Stretching, supportive shows, and staying hydrated can help reduce the frequency or severity.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common during the second trimester. If you feel pain when you urinate, have a strong urge to urinate, or notice that the urine is cloudy, contact your provider to discuss the possibility of a UTI.
Since pregnancy causes changes in your circulation, you may experience some dizziness. Move slowly from sitting to standing, and ensure you drink plenty of fluids.
Pregnancy can lead to changes in your gums and nasal passages. Both can become more sensitive and may be more prone to bleeding. Keeping up with routine dental care can reduce potential dental issues. Saline drops, or a saline rinse, can aid in relieving congestion.
Third Trimester
The third trimester begins at 27 weeks. This trimester lasts until the end of your pregnancy. During this trimester, you can create your birth plan with the help of your provider. Your provider may also want to monitor your progress more frequently.
As your pregnancy continues, you can expect:
- More Braxton Hicks Contractions
- Fatigue and discomfort
- Heartburn
- Frequent Urination
- Spider veins or varicose veins
In the last 13 weeks, you may notice increased fatigue and discomfort, including backaches. It may become difficult to find a comfortable position as your baby’s movements become more frequent and prominent. You may also experience shortness of breath or get winded easily.
Pregnancy hormones can continue to change your body, leading to heartburn and a laxity in connective tissue that may contribute to backaches.
As your baby presses down on your bladder, you likely will experience the need to urinate more frequently. You may also leak urine when coughing, sneezing, bending, or laughing.
When you’re pregnant, your body increases its circulation to care for your baby. During the third trimester, this can lead to small reddish-purple veins called spider or varicose veins. The redness often fades after delivery.
Get Care for You and Your Baby Throughout Your Pregnancy at Genesis OBGYN
Prenatal care is an essential part of a successful pregnancy in every trimester. Genesis OBGYN is proud to provide prenatal care to expecting parents around Tucson, Phoenix, and Sierra Vista, AZ. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
