What to expect: 1st trimester

Your body goes through exciting changes in the first few months of pregnancy. It’s working hard to support the new life growing inside you. Let's talk about these changes.

1. Morning sickness

Nausea and vomiting that can happen at any time of day. This is a sign that your pregnancy hormones are active.

Tip: Try eating small meals, having ginger, and staying hydrated to ease nausea.

2. Fatigue

Your body is creating a placenta and nourishing your baby. This may make you feel more tired.

Tip: Rest as much as you can. Take short naps. Ask for help when needed.

3. Breast changes

Tender and swollen breasts are early signs of pregnancy. Your body is preparing to breastfeed.

Tip: Wear well-fitting bras or go bra-less.

4. Frequent urination

Hormones increase blood flow, leading to more pee breaks.

Tip: Try not to drink too much before bed to limit nighttime bathroom trips.

5. Mood swings

Hormonal changes can cause emotional ups and downs. These are normal. Talk to your support system if you feel overwhelmed.

Tip: Communicate openly with your loved ones. Seek help if needed.

6. An enhanced sense of smell

Many pregnant people report a stronger sense of smell. This can affect nausea and food preferences.

Tip: Combat strong odors with fresh air or pleasant scents.

7. Constipation

Pregnancy hormones can slow digestion and cause constipation. Include fiber in your diet and stay hydrated.

Tip: Gentle exercises like walking can help your digestive system.

8. Increased vaginal discharge

Hormones lead to more discharge. This is normal.

Tip: Wear a panty liner for comfort. Avoid douching. Contact your doctor if you notice unusual changes, smells, or discomfort with your discharge.

9. Weight gain

Gaining weight is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Your body needs more calories to support baby's growth.

Tip: Embrace the weight gain as your body grows your baby. Discuss any concerns with your doctor or midwife.

10. Heartburn

Slow digestion can also cause heartburn.

Tip: Avoid rich and spicy foods. Eat small meals throughout the day. Avoid eating close to bedtime.

Remember, everyone’s experience is different. If you have concerns or questions, talk to your doctor or midwife. They are there to support you!

Body changes

Your baby bump may start showing. But everyone is different. Some people don’t show at all.

Hormones can cause changes in your skin. These can be color and texture changes.

Your breasts will keep growing. They are getting ready to feed your baby.

Gaining weight over time is normal. It’s also very important. Most people gain about a pound per week.

Hormones can lead to mood swings. Be kind to yourself. Share your feelings.

Forgetfulness is common. Make lists and reminders to help.

Important appointments

Weeks 18-22: The mid-pregnancy ultrasound is done around this time. This is to check baby’s growth.

Weeks 24-28: A “glucose screening test” is done. This checks for gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes that can happen in pregnancy).

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The second trimester is exciting! Enjoy the new experiences it brings. Keep attending prenatal visits to stay healthy.

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Seat choice

If you’re driving, choose the front seat to prevent motion sickness. If you’re flying and you can choose your seat ahead of time, try to choose an aisle seat or one with more leg room. This will keep you comfortable and make it easier to get to the bathroom. If you can’t choose your seat, don't worry! Most airlines allow pregnant women to pre-board.

2. Lightening

Your baby will drop lower into your pelvis in preparation for birth. You may feel lighter, a feeling known as "lightening." This can feel like a sudden shift as your baby's head moves down into your pelvis. You may also feel more pressure in your vaginal and pelvic area. This is a sign that your body is getting ready for birth.

4. Changes in vaginal discharge

Another sign of labor can be changes in your vaginal discharge. This is often stringy mucus that can be clear, pink, or blood-tinged. This is a sign that you are losing the mucus plug, which seals the cervix during pregnancy. It’s sometimes called “bloody show”. This change means that your cervix is softening and dilating to get ready for birth.

5. Diarrhea or upset stomach

Some people experience diarrhea or upset stomach. This can be due to sudden changes in hormone levels during early labor.

Every pregnancy is unique, and not everyone has these signs in the same way. Or even in the same order! It's common for early labor signs to be subtle. If you think you might be in labor or have concerns, call your doctor or midwife. They will help keep you and your baby safe through labor and birth.

What to expect: 1st trimester

Body changes

Exciting experiences

Important appointments

Important note: check with your doctor or midwife before traveling

Airline check-in

Travel insurance

Seat choice

Stretch it out

Stay hydrated

Ask for help

Safety first

1. Cramping

2. Lightening

3. Water breaking

4. Changes in vaginal discharge

5. Diarrhea or upset stomach