The first trimester of pregnancy

When most people think about the first trimester of pregnancy, they think about morning sickness or extreme emotions. Both of these things can happen in the first stage of pregnancy, but there are many other vital changes happening to mothers and babies during those first three months. Our Austin OB/GYNs urge women to seek prenatal care as soon as they suspect they are pregnant.

Physical and emotional changes during the first stage of pregnancy

During the first 13 weeks of pregnancy, women’s bodies transform, and that transformation brings with it several changes. Patients may experience some or all of the following issues.

• Morning sickness, which causes nausea and/or vomiting

• Breast tenderness and swelling

• More frequent urination

• Heartburn

• Fatigue

• Craving or avoiding certain foods

• Constipation

• Mixed emotions, ranging from feelings of happiness to anxiety, moodiness or crying easily

The first trimester is a critical time for babies’ development

Even though women can’t feel their babies or see a baby bump, the babies are going through critical stages of development. During the first trimester, babies experience some of their most important development.

For instance, in the early weeks of pregnancy, embryos’ brains and spines start to form. Lung and cardiac development start. During the last weeks of this stage of pregnancy, babies begin to develop their livers, and their pancreases and kidneys begin to function. So many changes happen before most people can even tell that a woman is expecting.

Prenatal care and self-care help keep moms and babies healthy

The first prenatal appointment focuses on the mother’s health and well-being. After the first visit, most patients see our OB/GYNs every four weeks. The first prenatal visit with our Austin OB/GYNs is the most extensive. Here’s what patients can expect at that initial first trimester visit.

• Family and medical history that includes a discussion of birth control methods, hospitalizations, history of miscarriages or abortions, current medications, medication allergies, and current medical or mental issues

• Measure weight, height, blood pressure

• Pelvic and breast examination

• Discussion about the patient’s last period, to determine due date and gestational age

• Bloodwork, including determination of Rh factor and blood type

• Vaccines as needed, including varicella, rubella, hepatitis and COVID

• HIV testing

During the first trimester, our physicians also talk to patients about prenatal vitamins, diet, nutrition, exercise and weight gain. They also advise women to quit smoking, drinking alcohol and using recreational drugs, and to avoid environmental hazards and certain foods such as raw fish and unpasteurized cheese.

Our Austin OB/GYNs provide preconception, prenatal and postnatal care

Before, during and after your pregnancy, our caring team is here for you. We answer questions about every stage of pregnancy and see women through the changes during each trimester. Contact us for an appointment.