First Trimester / Growing Together

Pregnancy is different for everyone, and very often each pregnancy is different for the same woman. So don't be concerned if you are not experiencing the same symptoms that your mother did, or even the same symptoms that you did in previous pregnancies. Although women share common physical changes, specific characteristics of each pregnancy may differ. It is best to discuss your concerns with your doctor or health care provider at your regular checkups.

It is very common to feel tired all the time, especially during the first three months. Try to rest as often as you can. Take advantage of going to bed early and napping during the day, and if anyone offers help so that you can get some rest, graciously accept. If you work outside the home, try to nap at lunch time.

Morning sickness, otherwise known as nausea that can happen at any time, is one of the most common discomforts of pregnancy. Although its cause is not known, morning sickness is linked to changing hormones, lower blood sugar, and a change in metabolism. By eating several small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals, you can regulate your blood sugar. This may help to diminish the nausea. Many women nibble on healthy snacks like saltines and gingersnaps and drink herbal tea to ease their upset stomach. Just remember – all things do pass, and when your baby arrives, you will quickly forget about the morning sickness.

Is the waistline already snug on your skirt or pants? It is common to expand earlier with each pregnancy, since the uterus is a smooth muscle that becomes more relaxed with each pregnancy. And whether this is your first or second or later pregnancy, it is natural for the hormonal and body changes taking place to cause a bloated feeling that also increases your waistline. The hormonal and body changes that cause bloating can also cause heartburn, indigestion, and gas. It's a catch-22. Your baby is getting a healthy diet because your intestines have slowed down to allow maximum absorption of the nutrients from the food you eat. You, on the other hand, are feeling the results. Here are some tips to help you survive – wear loose clothing, especially around the waist; eat several small meals a day, rather than three large ones; eat slowly, take small bites, and chew food well; stay away from hot, spicy foods, foods high in fat, and carbonated drinks; and drink lots of water all day long.

The amount of weight gained varies from woman to woman and pregnancy to pregnancy. By the third month, you will begin to "show," and you may have gained 3 to 4 pounds. This weight gain is from increased breast size, your baby, blood for the placenta, some fat, and extra fluid to support the growing baby. Your appetite is likely to increase, as will your cravings for certain foods. Your tastes may also change, in that you develop a dislike for food you once loved. It is important to eat sensibly from each of the food groups (see On Nutrition) throughout the day.

It is natural for your breasts to become more sensitive, tender, fuller and heavier. It is also natural for the pigmented area around the nipple (areola) to darken as the sweat glands in the areola become more exaggerated and resemble large goose bumps. To stay comfortable you may want to wear a more supportive bra, such as a sports bra.

Always running to the bathroom is another sign that your body is adjusting to being pregnant. It is caused by an expanding uterus against your bladder, more efficient kidneys, and an increased volume of body fluids. Just like many of the other discomforts discussed here, this too will pass as your pregnancy progresses and your uterus rises higher. Remember – all these common discomforts give way to a beautiful baby.