Your first reaction when you learn you are going to be a new mom?  Enthusiasm and excitement!  After the initial reaction, though, you might be anxious or scared about the changes that are about to occur in your life and to your body. If you get pregnancy information, you will be better prepared to handle the ups and downs of your pregnancy. The most important pregnancy information is in regards to the stages, or trimesters, of pregnancy. You might know that there are three of them, but do you know anything else?

Pregnancy Information–The First Trimester

The first trimester lasts from weeks 0-12 of the pregnancy. During this time, the body undergoes many changes. This is completely normal-the body is simply adjusting to the growth of the baby inside. One of the major physical changes the body undergoes is in the breasts-in order to prepare for breast feeding, the mammary glands cause the breasts to swell.

Another change that occurs during the first trimester is increased fatigue. Many women experience this during the first trimester-it is just your body's reaction to the physical and emotional strains of pregnancy. You can fight fatigue by getting eight hours of sleep each night and ensuring that you are eating a proper diet.

During the first trimester, women also might experience mood swings due to hormonal changes. Other common symptoms during the first trimester include: nausea and vomiting (morning sickness), frequent urination, dizziness, varicose veins, leg cramps, hemorrhoids, excess saliva, heartburn, indigestion, and intensified cravings.

Pregnancy Information–The Second Trimester

The second trimester lasts from weeks 13-28 of the pregnancy. During the second trimester, many women see their stomachs grow larger. They might notice stretch marks; to minimize stretch marks, weight gain should be monitored.

The symptoms that women usually experience during the second trimester are usually less severe than those felt during the first. Such symptoms include: lower back and abdominal pain, gum bleeds and nose bleeds, trouble sleeping, and vaginal discharge.

One of the most exciting parts of the second trimester is that many women are able to feel their baby "kick" for the first time. This is due to "quickening" and usually occurs by the end of the fifth month of the pregnancy.

Pregnancy Information-The Third Trimester

The third and final trimester lasts from week 29 until labor. By this point in the pregnancy, many women feel uncomfortable with their continued weight gain and false contractions. Some common occurrences during the third trimester of the pregnancy are: increased hair growth grate, a tendency to feel hot, breast tenderness, and fatigue. Some previous symptoms might continue as well.

The End Result

Whether you enjoy your pregnancy, or you can't wait to get it over with, you will find it much easier to deal with if you get pregnancy information for every step of the way. When it's all over, you will have a beautiful baby to love and take care of for the rest of your life.

Popularity: 4%