The first trimester of pregnancy is an exciting time. During this time, your baby will go from a single cell to a fully formed, but tiny baby. By 12 weeks, all major organs and body parts are formed. Your body is adjusting to these changes as well. For this reason, you may experience some common discomforts of early pregnancy.
Morning Sickness
Many women experience morning sickness in early pregnancy. This is the result of your changing hormones. Some experience nausea in the morning, while others will experience it all day long, or only in the evening. To ease your discomfort, there are a few things you can try: saltine crackers, ginger ale, coca cola, or eating smaller more frequent meals. Some women find that wearing bracelets intended for motion sickness can relieve nausea. A new product called “Preggie Pops”, which are lollipops for nausea, may help too.
Tiredness
You may find that you are tired all the time. This is common. Growing a baby is hard work and tiring. The only cure for fatigue is more rest. Go to bed earlier than you did before you became pregnant. Rest as much as possible during the day. If you have small children at home, take a nap with them in the afternoon. The laundry or dishes can wait. It’s important to take care of yourself and your growing baby. By the second trimester, the fatigue will subside and you will have more energy.
Frequent Urination
In early pregnancy, your frequent trips to the bathroom are caused by hormonal changes. Later, when the baby is pressing on your bladder, pressure will be the cause. Go as soon as you feel the urge. Holding it in for long periods of time can cause uterine contractions or urinary tract infections.
Heartburn
If you experience heartburn, watch your diet. Stay away from spicy foods for now. Drinking plenty of water can help prevent heartburn. Also, eating smaller meals more often can help prevent heartburn. There are some over the counter remedies that can be taken during pregnancy. Ask your doctor before taking any medications to be sure they are safe.
Emotional Changes
These can also be blamed on hormones. You may experience mood swings similar to PMS. Other times, you may get weepy over seemingly small things. A diaper commercial or hallmark commercial may be enough to reduce you to tears. As you adjust to pregnancy, these mood swings will decrease. This usually happens by the second trimester.