Pregnancy is often a time full of excitement and anticipation of meeting your new child. It is easy to forget that your body will undergo drastic changes to accommodate the growth of your child. These full body changes can surprise you.Â
In this blog, we will address some of the changes you may experience during your pregnancy.Â
First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)
The beginning of one of the most life-changing events you can ever experience. You have likely just realized you were pregnant and now you are coming to terms with the beginning of a new chapter in your life! However, pregnancy can come with a few inconvenient drawbacks that make the journey a little rocky.Â
System
Symptoms to Expect
Endocrine
During this period, you are experiencing a surge of hormones. These can cause tiredness, mood swings, and more emotional outbursts. It is common to cry over small things and become a little more sensitive.Â
Digestive
Your digestion slows down during this period and because of this you may have a few digestive issues. It is common to deal with nausea, bloating, constipation, and avoidance of certain foods.Â
Neurological
This trimester can include some brain fog, dizziness, and forgetfulness that you might now have had before.Â
Immune
Your immune system will be lowered, meaning you are more likely to get sick or get an infection. This happens because your body naturally lowers its internal ‘guard’ to support the baby.Â
Circulatory
Lightheadedness and low blood pressure can happen because your blood flow starts to increase during this trimester.Â
Second Trimester (Week 13-26)
You are now experiencing more physical changes, and this is often when people start ‘showing’. Your body is working a little harder to help you grow your little one, and it can show in some of your pregnancy symptoms.  Â
System
Symptoms to Expect
Musculoskeletal
Abdominal growth has started! Your posture and balance may shift to accommodate carrying more in the front of your body. It is common to have cramps or back pain.Â
Cardiovascular
Your heart has to take on a bigger role during this phase of pregnancy. As such, it begins to work 30-50% harder to keep up with the big task of growing a baby! This can lead to fatigue, swelling, and an increased heart rate.Â
Neurological
What is affectionately called, ‘pregnancy brain’ and refers to the forgetfulness of the first trimester, is often reported to fade. However, the growth of the abdomen may cause discomfort that can make sleep harder and in turn affect focus. Â
Skin & Hair
This period is often when people start to notice a glow in the hair and skin. This is also the point where stretch marks become more noticeable in the abdomen, breasts, or thighs.Â
Respiratory
During this period, the uterus expands and it will begin to push up against the diaphragm. This means that you are likely to experience shortness of breath. Â
Third Trimester (Week 27- Birth)
This is the final trimester and the closest point to meeting your baby! It is said that this trimester is a little more intense than the last two as your body is trying to keep up with the rapid growth of your baby. Still, this is the home stretch so while there may be some discomfort, take comfort in the fact it won’t be long until you are finally able to meet your child!Â
System
Symptoms to Expect
Musculoskeletal
There are a lot of extra demands being made of your body during this trimester. It is common to experience lower back pain, pelvic soreness, and leg cramps.Â
Digestive
Often, the pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach can cause heartburn and indigestion. Constipation is also known to occur.Â
Urinary
There is more pressure on the bladder during this period, so it leads to frequent urination! It can be bothersome but remember to stay hydrated! This can help prevent cramping as well. Â
Endocrine
Your hormones are still high at this point. It can impact your mood, metabolism, and ability to regulate your body temperature.Â
Circulatory
Your blood flow is still increased at this point, and this can result in varicose veins and swelling in the legs or feet. You and your provider should be monitoring your blood pressure. Â
Prenatal Care with MyCHN
There are a lot of factors to pregnancy, and it can be difficult to navigate these bodily changes and juggle planning the future for yourself and your child. We understand that this is both an exciting and challenging time, but we are here to help. We have skilled OB/GYN providers ready to make your journey as smooth as possible. Please schedule an appointment at one of our many locations to start your prenatal care right away!  Â
At MyCHN, we offer compassionate, affordable services in accessible locations for prenatal appointments and beyond. We accept various insurance plans, including Medicaid and CHIP, to support families from all walks of life. Schedule your appointment online using our form or call MyCHN today at (281) 824-1480. We look forward to serving you!Â
