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Stages of Pregnancy

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Early Stages of Pregnancy
Written by Barbara Lurie   
The early stages of pregnancy can be both exhilarating and exhaustive and definitely life transforming.  Baby making is not that difficult but the journey can be challenging, especially during those early stages.  Understanding the complexities of what’s happening to our bodies will give you a chance to relax and surrender while your baby develops and grows.

You’re Body and Mind during the Early Stages

There may not be any visible signs yet but your body is undergoing lots of changes to accommodate your new baby.  The fertilized egg has traveled around and imbedded itself into your uterine wall.  This triggers the production of the pregnancy hormone HCG and increases your levels of estrogen and progesterone.  And next, the pregnancy stick turns blue!

Your body begins to give off slight signals that you’re pregnant; increased hunger, frequent runs to the ladies room and the well-known morning sickness.  Every woman is different and while many experience nausea or morning sickness, many do not.  This term is also not always accurate; some woman will experience nausea in the afternoon, evening, late at night, and some in the middle of the night.  Coping with the nausea is the most important aspect because you must replace those fluids or you’ll soon find yourself run down, tired and depleted of nutrients.  Try eating small meals, nothing spicy but mostly bland foods that won’t cause heartburn.  And while there are many recommendations and home remedies to help relieve morning sickness, keep in mind it works for some but not for all.  According to WebMd ginger, vitamin B6 or B12 are known to reduce nausea and vomiting.  You could also try keeping wheat crackers by your bedside and start your morning with a few of those crackers before getting out of bed each day.  Follow up with warm ginger tea and that should help relieve some of the morning sickness.

Soon you’ll notice slight changes in your breast including swelling, tenderness and your nipples may enlarge a bit.  Many women profess that exercise helps clear the mind, keeps you limber for birthing and helps to release all those built up emotions running wild.  If nothing else, feeling more confident about the months ahead will better prepare you.

The other common effect of early pregnancy is extreme fatigue.  Yes, those first few months can challenge you but try and find time to steal short naps.  Your body is making way for two people to now share everything and that includes your energy.  Don’t worry, by the second trimester you’ll feel energized.

You’re Baby

The transformation from Embryo to Fetus will happen quickly. The first ten weeks of your baby’s life will be referred to as an embryo.  It looks nothing like a baby but more like a tadpole with a tail and buds protruding but by week six, your baby has endured rapid growth with newly working organs, muscles, nerves, circulatory system and a beating heart.  By week eight you’re baby is looking more and more like a little mini-you.  Limbs are becoming more prominent and in a few weeks you’ll be able to feel some fluttering – your babies first kicks.

By the third trimester your baby has endured rapid growth including the brain.  He or she opens and closes its eyes, mouth and hands and can respond to your voice.

The mom will also experience so body challenging changes.  Swelling to face, feet and hands are some common symptoms and will probably last until your baby is born.  You may even experience a rush of energy and anxiety, running all around to become prepared for your bundle of joy.  

All of this is very exciting but can also be demanding to your growing body.  The baby tries to move but for lack of space is a bit more restrained during those last few months.

Every minute of your pregnancy will be a joy and you’ll remember every moment. Take care of yourself and be sure to get plenty of rest and lots of fluids.  Remember you are the main source of nutrition for you and your baby.
 
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