Typically, an egg will be fertilized 2 weeks after your period. It will then stay in your fallopian tubes for about 3 days, and then it will travel down to your uterus. You may have noticed some light spotting about 2-3 weeks after your last period. That’s totally normal, and it’s called implantation bleeding because it occurs when the embryo implants itself in the lining of your uterus. Many women first realize they’re pregnant when they miss their period, making it easy to estimate conception. If you’re not sure, though, your doctor will be able to estimate when you conceived once you have your first ultrasound.
Typically, a home pregnancy test will be able to detect that you’re pregnant by about a week after your missed period. [3] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Your doctor will likely give you tips on having a healthy pregnancy, including the foods you shouldn’t eat, medications and supplements to avoid, and what activities are safe for you and your baby.
If you’re not pregnant yet but you’re planning to be, it’s a good idea to start taking folic acid before you ever conceive. That way, it will be present in your body from your baby’s earliest moments.
You might also experience headaches, body aches and pains, leg cramps, shortness of breath, and swelling in your hands, legs, and feet. [6] X Research source It’s very normal to have tender or sore breasts at this stage in your pregnancy, as well. This is due to hormonal changes in your body. [7] X Research source You may notice that you sometimes feel dizzy, or you might even faint. [8] X Research source
Eating small, frequent meals and drinking small amounts of fluids throughout the day may help alleviate your morning sickness symptoms. It might also help to avoid spicy, fatty, or rich foods, and try to avoid strong smells if you’re able to. [10] X Research source If your morning sickness is severe, talk to your doctor—if you don’t address it, you could become dangerously dehydrated. You might also find that you have to urinate more often than usual or that you’re constipated or have heartburn or indigestion. [11] X Research source
For instance, you might find that you suddenly hate garlic or that you can’t get enough milk. As long as you’re following a mostly healthy diet, go ahead and indulge in your cravings once in a while (unless it’s something you’re not supposed to eat while you’re pregnant, like sushi). Just don’t overdo it if your cravings are for junk food.
It’s normal to have some fears about going through the birthing process and raising a child. It can help to lean on your support system when you’re having these feelings. You might also feel concern about your changing body. Try not to stress too much about any weight gain—the most important thing is that you and your baby stay healthy. [14] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Being pregnant can sometimes unearth buried feelings about your own past and anxieties about the future, and it’s important to know that’s really common. However, if you feel deeply sad for a long period of time, you might be suffering from perinatal depression, and you should talk to your doctor about it. [15] X Research source
By the end of the first trimester, your baby will be about 3 in (7. 6 cm) and will weigh about 1 oz (28 g). Use a weekly pregnancy calendar to help you learn more about your baby’s development.
You may also find that you have fewer mood swings as your hormones stabilize. [18] X Research source Look out for that pregnancy glow—many women find that their hair and nails are especially healthy and strong during this period of their pregnancy. [19] X Research source
You may also notice darker skin on your body. This commonly occurs around your nipples or on your face. You might also see a line forming that runs from your belly button down to your pelvic bone.
It’s normal to have some itching on your abdomen or on your palms or the soles of your feet. However, if this is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite, call your doctor—it could indicate a liver problems. Some swelling in your ankles, fingers, and face is normal. However, if the swelling is sudden or extreme, call your doctor, as it could be a sign of preeclampsia.
Remember to follow your doctor’s advice for eating a healthy diet during your pregnancy.
At first, your baby’s movements will feel like a little flutter in your belly. This is called “quickening. “[24] X Research source If you’ve been pregnant before, you might be able to pick up movements a little earlier than if it’s your first pregnancy. Some doctors will advise you to count your baby’s movements during this time, but others will not, especially if you’re having a healthy pregnancy. [25] X Research source
Even if you’re happy about welcoming a new baby, it’s okay to feel anxious or afraid about it. However, if you find that you’re struggling to feel happy most days, talk to your doctor—you might be suffering from depression.
If you’re interested in learning the sex of your baby, your doctor will probably be able to determine it during this time. By the end of the second trimester, your baby will be about 12 in (30 cm) long and weigh about 1. 5 lb (0. 68 kg).
Heartburn is common during pregnancy, especially as your baby grows throughout the third trimester. Try to stick to bland foods, and avoid anything fatty or spicy. Talk to your doctor about an antacid if it continues. [29] X Research source Expect swelling in your ankles, fingers, and face to continue. However, if the swelling is severe or appears suddenly, call your doctor to rule out preeclampsia. [30] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Other symptoms might include hemorrhoids, trouble sleeping, and your belly button sticking out. [31] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Varicose veins are also common, because the blood flow in your legs is slower. [32] X Research source
You might also have to urinate more often as your baby starts to press on your bladder. Late in the third trimester, your baby may move lower in your abdomen to prepare for birth. [34] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source When this happens, you may find that it’s easier to breathe, since there won’t be as much pressure on your lungs.
Placing absorbent pads inside your bra will help keep the colustrum from leaking through to your outer layers.
If you have any questions about whether you’re in labor, don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider.
It’s normal to feel a little irritable during this time, especially when your body is tired and uncomfortable. Ask your loved ones to be patient with you, and try not to take it out on them if you can help it. [38] X Research source
Before you give birth, your cervix will become effaced, or thinner and softer. If your doctor notices this, they’ll know that your body is getting ready to go into labor.
Typically, your baby will turn into a head-down position just before your due date.
Before you give birth, you might notice that you have frequent or loose bowel movements, you might feel restless, and you’ll likely have strong, regular contractions. You might also see bloody discharge or your water might break. Call your doctor as soon as you think you’re in labor. [41] X Trustworthy Source March of Dimes Nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of mothers and babies. Go to source
