First Trimester

To 12 Weeks
The first trimester is a time of amazing, rapid and profound changes.  Your baby goes from being two indivdual cells to a fetus with all major organ systems developed.  You  will also undergo major physical and physcological changes.  

Symptoms for You

The physical changes you will experience may be uncomfortable and bothersome.  Not all women experience all the discomforts of pregnancy or in the same way.  Fatigue, Nausea and Vomiting, Frequent Urination, Breast Tenderness, Headaches and Dizziness are all common symptoms of early pregnancy.  Try cutting down on social events in an attemp to get more rest.  If naps are not an option, try getting to bed earlier.  If nausea is a problem  try eating saltine crackers before getting out of bed in the moring, rise slowly.  Some women find keeping something light to snack on throughout the day will keep nausea at bay.  Your uterus will begin enlarging shortly after conception occurs, this will cause a need to urinate more frequently.  Do not restrict you consumption of water in an attempt to avoid a trip to the bathroom.  Wear a well-fitting support bra to ease the tenderness that occurs in the breast.  You may find it necessary to wear a bra to bed.  Headaches and Dizziness often occur as a result of increased hormones.  To eleviate dizziness, rise slowly and allow yourself time to adjust to your new position, especially after lying down.  Headaches can often be treated with acetaminophen, unless contraindicated.  (Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication).

Weight Gain and Physical Changes

Generally only a small amount of weight is gained in the first trimester.  Some women lose weight during the first trimester.  A normal weight gain for the first trimester is about 2 pounds.  If you have concerns about your weight, speak with your helathcare provider.  There is a wide range of normal and appropriate weight gain.  You probaly will not appear pregnant to the outside world, especially if this is your first pregnancy.

Your Baby

All of your baby's essential organ systems and structure are formed during these first 12 weeks. Your baby is a zygote until week 8, when he/she officially becomes a fetus.  At the end of these first 12 amazing weeks the average fetus is about 2 1/2 or 3 inches long and weighs about one ounce.
The heart begins beating about day 26                                                         
Reproductive organs are formed but will not be able to be seen well enough to identify the baby's sex.                                                                                
Fingers and toes are formed and nails have begun to grow                            
The lungs and respiratory system are formed and working                             
The circulatory system is working                                                               
The liver is making vile                                                                              
The kidneys are secreting urine into the bladder.                                             The fetus has begun to make small movements, although these will not be            strong enough to be felt for a few more weeks.                                                      
Fetal Pictures

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