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Written by Ann Smith
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Pregnancy Stages: What Your Body Will Go ThroughDuring each of the three pregnancy stages, your body will go through some changes. At some times, those changes will be drastic and by the end of them you may not recognize your body any longer.
In other stages of pregnancy, the changes are small. In all situations, knowing what to expect from each stage is an important part of being prepared for your baby. As your body changes, it becomes a better home for your child as he or she develops.
In The First TrimesterDuring the first trimester of pregnancy, the changes in the way your body looks may be minimal but the way that you feel will likely be very different! Many of the first signs of pregnancy will happen in small ways but may have you feeling sick. For example, you may have nausea which may become morning sickness. You may have increased fatigue, which is cause by the many hormones entering your body. You may also suffer from aches and pains, especially in the back. Your emotions may be across the board as mood swings are another effect of hormones. You may also feel increased stress and anxiety as you wonder and worry about what is to come.
In The Second TrimesterIn the second trimester, your body will continue to change. You will find yourself starting to see pregnancy weight too. As your baby grows and expands, you will gain weight. In most cases, the second trimester is easier physically than the first. You may still be suffering from morning sickness, but it is likely to go away soon. Your abdomen will begin to expand. And, in the sixth month of pregnancy, you are likely to feel your child move for the first time. During pregnancy now, you are likely to feel more aches and pains, especially in the pain, in your abdomen and in the groin and thighs. Many women have shortness of breath. Skin changes during pregnancy also begin to happen, including stretch marks.
In The Third TrimesterIn the third trimester, pregnancy stages will come to life. Now, you will see the most growth of your abdomen as the child really grows and pushes into your abdomen wall and your back. You may find it more difficult to breath now. Plus, as baby moves around, he may push on your organs, which may cause tenderness and pain throughout your body. You may experience heartburn in this stage of pregnancy. You may also see noticeable difference in your ankles and feet including swelling which is caused by the increase of weight. Additional signs of third trimester including hemorrhoids, difficulty sleeping well at night, and tender and swollen breasts.
It is important to note that in all pregnancy stages, your body will react specifically to you. In other words, you may experience many of these symptoms of pregnancy or no symptoms of pregnancy. You may find yourself feeling much different. Unless you find yourself facing painful situations, or you are unable to cope with certain conditions, you are likely having a healthy pregnancy. Report any changes in the way that you feel to your doctor.
The changes in your body are natural, in most cases. While they may sound painful or uncomfortable, they are nearly always a signal of your child's upcoming birth. From the first signs of pregnancy until your final stage of pregnancy, your body will conform to the needs of your growing child. With a healthy pregnancy diet, good exercise and sleep, your baby will have the best chance are a healthy birth. Talk to your doctor about changes you are unsure about. |
