Your body goes through lots of physical and emotional changes during the first trimester of pregnancy. Learn what to expect and how to manage these changes.
Some of the changes in your body will be obvious. For example, your periods will stop, your breasts may become tender and lumpy and the areas around your nipples may darken. You might find it helpful to wear a comfortable, supportive bra, such as a nursing bra.
You may also experience unexpected mood changes - this is normal. Be sure to focus on yourself. Talk about your feelings with your friends, family and co-workers. Eat regularly and often, and stay physically active. If you feel down for longer than seven days and things that used to give you joy no longer do, you may have perinatal depression. It’s also helpful to talk with your healthcare provider now.
It’s normal to feel excitement, fear or uncertainty about impending parenthood. Share your feelings with others and spend time with new parents or a pregnancy support group. You can call your public health office, ask your healthcare provider or check your phone book for information on pregnancy and perinatal support groups in your area.
Fatigue
Feeling tired and sleepy is normal; rest whenever you can. It’s also OK if you don’t feel tired
Have periods of activity and then of rest; stop before you become overtired
Eat small meals several times a day and drink plenty of water
If you're working, try to rest on your breaks and at lunchtime
Headaches
Headaches are common and usually due to hormonal and postural changes
Practice good posture
Eat small, nutritious meals several times a day
Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Avoid activities that cause eyestrain
Get plenty of sleep at night and rest during the day
Get neck, shoulder, face, and scalp massages
Apply a cool or warm washcloth to your forehead and the back of your neck
Drink two cups of water and take some acetaminophen
Talk to your healthcare provider if your headache doesn't go away
Frequent urination
Pregnant women commonly pee more often
Drink water, milk, and 100 per cent juice instead of coffee, tea, or colas
Increased vaginal secretions
Vaginal secretions are thin and milky
Wear small pads, cotton underwear, and looser pants
Shower or bathe often
Contact your healthcare provider if there is itchiness or frothy, smelly, or coloured discharge
Light-headedness
Stand up slowly
Eat regularly and often
Shortness of breath
This is usually normal, but check with your healthcare provider if you have a family history of heart problems.
Morning sickness
Many women also experience morning sickness - nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. For more information:
Yes. As long as you don't feel dizzy when you lie on your back, then plenty of blood is reaching your brain. If you feel dizzy when lying on your back, roll to your side or onto your stomach.
Don't lie flat on your back after the fourth month of pregnancy. The weight of your baby presses on your major arteries and veins and can reduce the blood flow to you and your baby.
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