First Trimester

 
The baby: This is the most critical period of the pregnancy. All of the baby's major organs have begun to form, as have the nervous system, arms, legs, fingers, hair and buds for future teeth. Typically the fetal heart begins to beat on the 26th day of growth. The reproductive organs have also formed but are unidentifiable. By the end of the trimester the circulatory and respiratory systems are functioning. The liver begins producing bile and the kidneys are able to secrete urine into the bladder. The majority of congenital defects arise from complications and problems during this critical stage of development.

The mother: Typically, the mother should expect to gain between 2 to 4 pounds over these twelve weeks. The majority of the weight gain will occur in the later stages of the trimester. Beyond this weight gain the mother can expect many other physiological changes in her body - some she will be able to see and recognize and others she will not be aware of. On average the metabolic rate of expectant mothers increases 10-25 % in the first trimester. Accompanying this increase is a similar increase in heart rate which will continue to rise until the middle of the 2nd trimester. The mother will also begin to notice that her breathing becomes more rapid throughout this trimester in order to get more oxygen to the baby. Yet another noticeable change will be the enlargement of the mother's breasts and a darkening of the nipples due to the increased levels of estrogen in her body. The mother's breasts will also likely be tender and sensitive to the touch. The vaginal walls also tend to soften and relax and the increased blood flow to the vagina and vulva causes them to develop a purplish complexion. Vaginal discharge too is not uncommon. The hormones in the mother's body tend to level off by the end of the 1st trimester or early 2nd trimester so she will begin to feel better around that time as some of the more unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy lessen or cease.

Common Conditions and Symptoms of Pregnancy during 1st Trimester :

1. Morning Sickness and Nausea: this is typically a result of hormonal changes.
2. Mood Swings: Stress can cause emotional highs and lows. Changes in hormone levels also affect emotions.
3. Constipation: Again this condition is largely due to the fluctuations in hormones in the mother's body. The hormones signal the body to process food more slowly and thoroughly in order to provide optimal nourishment for the baby.
4. Fatigue: This is usually due to the fact that the mother's entire system is now devoting its efforts to creating a healthy environment for the baby.
5. Food Aversions and Cravings: This condition is not truly understood. What causes certain cravings or aversions is unknown but again changes in hormonal levels are a suspected culprit.

Month 1

The fertilized egg begins to grow at a rapid rate and the impermeable amniotic sac forms around it. This sac, which fills with amniotic fluid, acts as a cushion for the developing embryo. The placenta develops as well. It is an oval organ that serves to transfer nutrients from the mother to the baby. The placenta also transfers the baby's waste away from him.

Large dark circles representing the foundation of eyes are present on the baby's developing face. The face is further developing with the growth of the mouth, throat, and jaw. Circulation begins as white and red blood cells form. By the end of the month the baby's has a head and trunk, limb buds have formed and the heart is formed and beating by day 26.

Month 2

The already existing facial features continue to develop and eyelids and ears begin to form. All major organs are formed but are not fully functioning. Fingers and toes develop on the baby and bone cells appear. The central nervous system and neural tube - the brain, spinal cord, and neural tissue - are well developed.

Month 3

Near the end of this month the baby will be fully formed. The rest of the pregnancy is devoted to growth and development. Soft nails are now present on the baby's hand and toes. Twenty buds for future teeth are present and hair begins to appear on the baby's head. The kidneys develop and begin to secrete urine into the bladder. All other organs start their maturation process. The baby's sex organs are now also present but the sex is indistinguishable. The circulatory and respiratory systems are working.

Common First Trimester Medical Exams:

The first visit of the mother's pregnancy is typically concerned with examining her overall health, identifying any possible risks to a healthy pregnancy, and establishing a rough estimate of the age of the fetus. The mother can expect to receive a physical that includes a cervical exam, and an examination of the shape of the uterus and ovaries. Blood will be taken in order to test for syphilis, rubella, Hepatitis B, AIDS, and Rh Factor. A blood count will also be done from the drawn blood. A urinalysis will also be done to test for various illnesses, infections, and protein and glucose levels. The mother will also be given a pap smear.

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