What should be avoided in the first trimester? Is first trimester until week 12 or 13? Here’s what to expect during this stage, mum-to-be.
Congratulations on your pregnancy! We are happy to welcome you to the exciting world of being a parent.
Apart from stocking up on maternity wear and buying every single pregnancy book on the shelves, there are some really important things that we might miss out on during the first trimester.
What food do you eat? What to expect from your first checkup? Here’s our exhaustive list that will guide you through this whole process.
First off, you should know that your pregnancy will be broken down in three trimesters, with each stage having different stages of development for the baby and symptoms for the mum-to-be (although some symptoms last all throughout pregnancy)
Table of Contents
First Trimester Weeks
How long is the first trimester?
The first trimester of pregnancy, spanning from week 1 to week 12, is a time of incredible transformation and development. During these initial weeks, the fertilised egg implants in the uterus, and essential organs and structures begin to form.
Many expectant mothers may experience the classic symptoms of early pregnancy, such as morning sickness, fatigue, and breast tenderness. It’s a critical period for prenatal care, as healthcare providers monitor the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.
Additionally, this trimester can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety as parents prepare for the journey ahead.
The first trimester is the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and it’s when you’ll start to see some of the first changes in your body. You might have heard that you can’t feel anything during the first trimester, which isn’t exactly true. Some of the early symptoms are subtle, but they’re there!
During this period, your hormones will change your body (and mind) which you may overlook at first. You might feel nauseated and tired, but don’t worry—that’s normal! Your body is going through a lot right now.
You should keep up with your doctor’s appointments during this period just in case something goes wrong. It’s also important to take care of yourself as best as possible so that you don’t stress out too much over what seems like nothing serious!
Image Source: iStock
Is the First Trimester 12 Weeks or 13?
It’s a little bit of both!
The first trimester is 12 weeks, but the gestational age at which a pregnancy is considered viable is 13 weeks.
Pregnancy First Trimester Symptoms
The first trimester of pregnancy is a time of excitement and wonder for many women. While some first-time mums-to-be may feel exhausted, nauseous and even downright miserable during the first trimester, most will experience some symptoms that signal healthy foetal development.
Here is a list of common first-trimester symptoms:
- Nausea (morning sickness)
- Breast tenderness
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Mood swings
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
- Headaches
Why Is the First Trimester Dangerous
The first trimester is dangerous because the pregnancy hormones are still being regulated and you’re not used to them yet. Your body is just getting used to being pregnant, so there can be a lot of weird stuff.
It’s also dangerous because that’s when your baby is still very fragile and may have trouble growing or developing properly if something goes wrong with the pregnancy. The baby’s organs are still developing, and many risks are involved with developing these organs.
It is important to know that several factors can cause problems during this period. These include:
- Maternal age (older)
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
- Other health conditions (for example diabetes, cancer)
- Poor nutrition or poor diet
Danger Signs of Pregnancy in the First Trimester
While a positive pregnancy test is usually caused for celebration, there are some signs that your pregnancy is dangerous.
The most common sign of a dangerous pregnancy is bleeding, which can be spotting or a heavier flow. Bleeding may or may not be accompanied by pain. If you experience bleeding during your first trimester, check with your doctor immediately.
Other early signs that your pregnancy might be dangerous include:
Lightheadedness or dizziness when you stand up quickly
- Pain in your abdomen
- Abdominal cramps that are more severe than usual and persist longer than normal cramps (which should go away within a few days)
- Pain when urinating
- Back pain
- Swelling of the hands and feet
- Frequent headaches
Image Source: iStock
Signs Your Pregnancy Is Going Well in the First Trimester
If you’re pregnant and in the first trimester, you may wonder if your pregnancy is going well. Luckily, plenty of signs tell you you’re on track for a healthy pregnancy.
Here are some of the most common ones:
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You haven’t experienced any unexpected bleeding or spotting
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You’ve had at least three periods since getting pregnant (or four if that’s how long it took to conceive)
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Your doctor has not found anything abnormal during an ultrasound
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Your morning sickness has improved or at least stabilised after the 12th week
Foods to Eat When Pregnant First Trimester
If you’re pregnant, you know that the first trimester can be tough. Your body is changing in so many ways, and it’s hard to know what to eat and what not to eat.
We’ve compiled a list of foods that are safe to eat during your first trimester, along with some tips on how to incorporate them into your diet:
Safe Foods During Your First Trimester
1) Eggs are rich in protein and can help you feel full longer than other foods. Try eating eggs with cheese or adding a fried egg to your salad!
2) Yoghurt contains calcium and vitamin D, essential for your baby’s bone growth. Try adding fruit or granola for extra flavour.
3) Vegetables provide vitamins and minerals your body needs during pregnancy and fibre for daily digestion. Try roasting vegetables at home for an easy side dish!
4) You can eat more fruit than usual, especially citrus fruits. Citrus fruits are full of vitamin C and potassium, which are great for your baby. They also have lots of fibre and water, which will help keep you hydrated and fuel your body with nutrients.
5) Nuts are not only delicious, they’re also good for you in moderation! They are full of protein and healthy fats that will help your baby grow strong and healthy. Just remember not to overdo it—nuts can be high in calories when eaten in large quantities.
6) Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice are great for pregnancy because they’re rich in iron and other important nutrients for fetal development. Just make sure to cook them well so they don’t have any harmful bacteria on them!
Image Source: iStock
Week by Week Pregnancy Guide for the First Trimester
Useful Information for the First Trimester
So you’re having a baby? Here’s how you can prepare financially!
Changes to expect for each trimester of pregnancy
7 Ways Your Second Pregnancy Is Different From Your First
10 tips to keeping pregnancy a secret during your first trimester:
Can I exercise in my first trimester of pregnancy?
Running won’t harm you or your unborn child, experts say:
Babies and pets: can they co-exist?:
Breaking Down Safe Sleeping Positions Trimester by Trimester, to Avoid Stillbirth
8 Household Chores You Should Avoid While You’re Pregnant
Sex During Pregnancy: Safe Positions Per Trimester
Pregnancy After A Miscarriage: When to Try Again and What to Remember
Pregnancy Health
Choosing a gynaecologist in Singapore
Embryo vs Fetus vs Baby: What’s the Difference and at Which Stage Is Your Pregnancy In?
Placental Development: Why It Plays An Important Role During Your Pregnancy
Why The Ultrasound Can’t Detect Your Baby’s Heartbeat
Early Signs That You Might Be Pregnant With Twins
All you need to know about the OSCAR test in Singapore
How Much Pregnancy Weight Should You Gain?
What mums-to-be should expect at their first prenatal visit
Understanding Prenatal Testing: The Tests You Need to Have Per Trimester
Compulsory And Optional Pregnancy Scans In Singapore
Essential Vaccines You Need During Pregnancy
Are Dental Procedures Safe During Pregnancy?
For Daddies
Husband’s Support During Pregnancy: A Guide for All Expecting Fathers
7 amazing pregnancy perks daddies-to-be can look forward to
6 Ways to keep your husband involved during pregnancy
Food & Nutrition
Nutrients and Vitamins Needed By Mums During Pregnancy
Here’s How Much Water You Should Be Drinking During Pregnancy
15 Foods and Drinks All Pregnant Mums Should Avoid For Baby’s Health
8 Fruits To Avoid During The First Trimester Of Your Pregnancy
What Not to Do During the First Trimester
The first trimester of pregnancy is a crucial time for the development of the fetus, and certain precautions are necessary to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Here’s a short list of things to avoid during the first trimester:
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Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both smoking and alcohol can harm the developing baby and should be completely avoided.
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Limit Caffeine Intake: High caffeine consumption may increase the risk of miscarriage, so it’s best to limit your intake.
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Stay Away from Certain Medications: Some medications can be harmful during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication.
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Watch Your Diet: Raw or undercooked seafood, soft cheeses, and unpasteurised dairy products can carry foodborne illnesses, so it’s best to avoid them.
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Reduce Stress: High stress levels may negatively affect pregnancy, so take steps to manage stress through relaxation techniques or counselling.
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Avoid Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Minimise exposure to toxic chemicals and fumes, whether at home or in the workplace.
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Limit Strenuous Exercise: While light exercise is encouraged, avoid high-impact or strenuous activities that could pose a risk to the developing fetus.
Remember, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance during your pregnancy journey.
Updates by Pheona Ilagan
Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it’s important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn’t serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.