The stages of pregnancy are typically three, called trimesters. The trimesters have important physical reasons for having been selected as stages, other than professional medical custom. Each trimester is approximately thirteen weeks long. The first trimester ends at the end of the thirteenth week; the second ends at the end of the twenty-seventh week; and the third ends at birth, which is usually during the forty‑first week. In addition to the calendar limits to each trimester, each one is usually identified with specific critical events that are typical of all pregnancies.
First Trimester: The First Thirteen Weeks
Except for the blessed event itself, most of the memories, both good and bad, which come to mind when a mother discusses her pregnancies, occur during the first trimester. During this trimester the body of the mother-to-be undergoes many hormonal changes that affect physical comfort and psychological behavior. The most physical of these changes is the forever memorable experience of morning sickness. The greater part of the baby’s initial development occurs during this trimester, and your behavior and lifestyle must be modified to meet the needs of this developing life.
During this trimester your baby will develop from a small cluster of cells about the size of the head of a pin into an embryo that measures a little over three inches from top to bottom. At the end of this trimester, the baby will have developed eyes, ears, fingers, toes, all vital organs, tooth buds, and should be easily identified as a girl or a boy in an ultrasound scan.
Your body will also experience many physical changes. Your monthly periods will stop; your breasts will enlarge as milk glands multiply; morning sickness will occur; and the telltale tummy will begin to show. You’ll be advised to reduce the intake of caffeine and alcoholic beverages; drink lots of fluids, eat a nutritious diet, and take regular vitamin supplements. Your body will also demand more loose fitting clothes. This is characteristically the period when all your girlfriends congratulate you with OOHs and AAHs.
Second Trimester: The Next Fourteen Weeks
This trimester offers one of the most exciting events of the pregnancy, other than the birth itself. The baby begins to move. The expectant daddy can now feel the physical presence of the baby and experience the closeness and bonding that the mother has enjoyed during the first trimester. Fortunately, for most mothers, morning sickness will have ended. Your tummy will begin to expand noticeably. During this trimester you may begin to experience significant weight gain and the normal back pains and occasional dizziness that most pregnant women experience.
During this trimester the baby will move regularly inside your uterus, and he or she will begin to develop regular sleep patterns. The baby’s bones will begin to become harder, the ears will become more noticeable and assume a recognizable shape, and fine hair will begin to cover the baby’s body.
Your physical changes will become more pronounced than they were during the first trimester. Freckles and moles may become darker; your breasts will continue to enlarge; you may find that your extremities begin to swell from water retention; and the tummy will not only enlarge, but will take on a more rounded shape. You’ll tire easily during this period, and should rest as often as possible. You’ll need to continue to exercise for your own benefit, continue to follow a healthful diet, and drink lots of liquids. There is a good chance that one or two baby showers may occur during this trimester.
Third Trimester: On to the Blessed Event
During this trimester some mothers-to-be joke that they feel like they are in their 35th month of pregnancy. You’ll begin to focus upon the coming birth. Preparing the nursery will become important. You’ll undoubtedly be attending childbirth classes with the father-to-be. You may experience numbness in the pelvic area and feel as though you could deliver at any moment. The vicissitudes of the first two trimesters will be forgotten during this final trimester as you begin to focus upon the joy of having a new baby in your family.
During this time, your baby’s formation will be completed, and his weight will increase as his fat deposits increase. Most importantly, he will be moving into position for his introduction into the world.
Your body will have reached a point where no one will doubt your condition. You’ll have problems with balance when you get up to walk. You will most likely experience leaking of colostrums from your breasts. You may experience backaches. When the baby moves, you’ll be able to discern whether you’ve been poked with an elbow or a knee. This is a time to rest up for the big day. Continue to eat properly, don’t do any heavy lifting, start thinking of names for the newcomer, pack your bags, and be ready for the trip to the delivery room.
Related posts:
Pregnancy’s Emotional Challenges
A New Mom’s Guide to Making it through the First Year
What Baby Really Needs Those First Few Days
Necessities frequently bought for newborns:
 |
 |
| Best Convertible Car Seat 2011 | the First Years Wave Stroller |