1st trimester of pregnancy until what week. First trimester of pregnancy

The first trimester of pregnancy contains a lot of educational and interesting things for expectant mothers, and is also very important in the development of your unborn child. It is the first trimester that makes you realize that there is another life living in you, for which you are already responsible, you listen to new sensations, notice changes in yourself and often look for information about what you need to know about this wonderful period in your life .

In order not to burden you with medical terms, we will note the most important and useful aspects that you need to remember.

Well-being

Fatigue, apathy, and a constant desire to sleep are frequent companions of the first trimester. Also, many women experience changes in the intestinal microflora, namely stool disorders (diarrhea or diarrhea), frequent urination, swelling of the mammary glands, and frequent mood changes. During this period, try to be in the fresh air more often, take breaks from work, do simple physical exercises, and set yourself up for good health. It all works - believe me.

Nutrition

It is in the first trimester that changes in your diet and taste preferences are characteristic. Often, favorite foods become disgusting in taste, food smells follow everywhere, a terrible appetite appears, and all kinds of pickles replace (or complement) all meals. To minimize the consequences of improper or abundant nutrition, exclude heavy, fatty foods, drink plenty of fluids, eat vegetables and fruits.

Vitamins in the first trimester of pregnancy

Ideally, it is advisable to start taking vitamins at the stage of pregnancy planning. But, since the fact of pregnancy often comes as a surprise to a woman, the issue of taking vitamins in this case should be resolved as soon as possible. The choice of a particular vitamin-mineral complex should be entrusted to a specialist: the doctor will help you decide on the most suitable drug.

Vitamins in the first trimester of pregnancy are extremely necessary, because they ensure the normal process of formation of all vital organs and systems of the fetus, and also determine its normal development.

Very often, expectant mothers experience a lack of B vitamins, primarily vitamin B9 (folic acid). But folic acid is actually the key to the normal formation of the fetus; it is not for nothing that it is additionally prescribed both at the stage of preparation for pregnancy and at the very beginning. In addition, vitamin B9, and with it vitamins B6, the antioxidant complex of vitamins A, C, E become an element of protection against pregnancy failure. Vitamin D and calcium are needed in sufficient quantities during pregnancy: a deficiency of these elements in the future may manifest itself in the form of rickets in the baby or result in the loss of teeth in the mother.

Toxicosis will be discussed a little lower, but now I would like to say that one of the reasons for the development of this unpleasant condition may be a deficiency in the body of B vitamins. And therefore, it is also better to replenish their reserves even in preparation for conception, well, or already in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Toxicosis

Another companion of the first trimester of pregnancy is. It can manifest itself differently in each woman: some suffer from it for almost all three trimesters, while for others it goes away almost unnoticed. There is no need to be scared - it all depends on the hormonal background of the pregnant woman, which begins to change during this period and brings with it new “surprises”. But such changes can be experienced with the least damage to yourself and the unborn child, following simple rules: sleep should last at least 8 hours, frequent walks, doing what you love and a positive attitude - these are all the secrets.

Also, do not forget that the doctor is best friend and an advisor throughout pregnancy, so don’t neglect extra consultation or just moral support!

Tests in the first trimester of pregnancy

From the moment pregnancy is determined and until its successful completion, a woman will need constant supervision by specialists with regular studies. In order to monitor the condition of the pregnant woman and the fetus, certain tests and examinations are necessary. What tests are needed in the first trimester of pregnancy?

Of course, blood tests: for AIDS, syphilis, hepatitis B and C. In addition, a blood test will make it possible to determine the Rh factor: if mommy is determined to have a negative Rh factor, and daddy is positive, the woman will have to donate blood for antibodies every third week.

Blood will also be taken for general and biochemical tests, and a general urinalysis will be performed (urine will need to be taken monthly to assess kidney function).

It is mandatory to take a vaginal smear in the early stages of pregnancy; tests may be prescribed for rubella, herpesvirus and cytomegalovirus infections, toxoplasmosis, and chlamydial infection.

Ultrasound

For the first time, a pregnant woman is sent for an ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy; the optimal period for this is considered to be 10-12 weeks of pregnancy. Ultrasound can be performed both transabdominally and transvaginally (through the vagina; this method is used when it is not possible to achieve a clear image using the transabdominal method).

Using ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy, the number of fetuses and the exact duration of pregnancy are determined, and the risk of an ectopic or frozen pregnancy is eliminated. Ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy is a very valuable examination method in terms of assessing the condition of the embryo and its normal development. Thus, ultrasound examination makes it possible to exclude serious fetal malformations and determine the risk of chromosomal pathologies.

At the same time, through ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy, the functional activity of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries is assessed; The causes of vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain (if any) are determined.

Discharge in the first trimester of pregnancy

Discharge accompanies a woman throughout her adult life, including during pregnancy. Moreover: during pregnancy, under the influence of the hormone progesterone, the discharge may intensify somewhat and acquire a whitish tint. But they can also be transparent, of course. The main thing is that the discharge in the first trimester of pregnancy is not accompanied by discomfort (itching or burning), does not have an unpleasant odor and has a normal consistency.

You should immediately consult a doctor if the nature of your discharge during pregnancy changes as follows:

• The discharge has a cheesy consistency, acquires an unpleasant odor, and is accompanied by itching or burning. Most likely, in such a situation, candidiasis will be diagnosed, also known as thrush. This disease must be treated, otherwise there is a high risk of transmission of the infection to the fetus and the development of pathologies in the child. In some cases, thrush can even provoke a miscarriage, and therefore you shouldn’t “joke” with it;
• the discharge changes color to greenish or deep yellow, which indicates a probable sexually transmitted infection. If the discharge “repaints” brown, one can suspect a frozen pregnancy and the beginning of rejection of the fertilized egg;
• bloody discharge appears. This is probably one of the most danger signs, indicating a high risk of pregnancy failure. In addition, spotting may be a sign of cervical erosion.

Sex

With the onset of pregnancy, the previously familiar way of life for a couple certainly changes. Both the attitude and approach to such ordinary and previously familiar things are changing. For example, to sex. It is not at all surprising that the question of whether sex is possible in the first trimester of pregnancy and whether it will harm the fetus is of concern to the expectant mother. In her new status, the woman worries about the life growing inside her and does everything in her power to protect the baby from any dangers.

The expectant mother should immediately be reassured: sex in the first trimester of pregnancy is very much allowed if the doctor has not voiced contraindications that exclude intimate relationships. These may include recurrent miscarriage, threatened miscarriage, bleeding from the vagina, as well as the presence of a sexually transmitted infection in one of the parents. You should also be careful if a multiple pregnancy has been diagnosed, but, again, the final “verdict” regarding the possibility of making love is made by the doctor.

But, even if the doctor still “gave the go-ahead” for sex in the first trimester, another problem may arise for the couple. Usually, in the early stages of pregnancy, a woman feels, to put it mildly, unimportant: a sleepy and lethargic state, increased moodiness and irritability, mood swings - all these consequences of hormonal changes somewhat “discourage” the desire for sex. Daddy shouldn’t be afraid or despair: this condition will pass in the very near future. You just have to be patient a little, learn to “feel” a woman and help her cope with new sensations.

Pain in the first trimester of pregnancy

Moreover, these newest sensations are even distinguished by a certain pain - pain in the first trimester of pregnancy, according to women who have given birth, is not at all uncommon. And the nature of the pain can be completely different.

Thus, the most common complaints of pregnant women are abdominal pain. As a rule, minor and short-lived pain in the abdominal area is the norm, provided that the painful sensations occur periodically and pass quickly. But if a woman constantly feels nagging pain in the lower abdomen, and they are accompanied by irregular (even worse, regular) bleeding, a visit to the doctor should take place as soon as possible: most likely, in this case, we are talking about the threat of miscarriage. Additionally, abdominal pain in early pregnancy with brown discharge may indicate ectopic pregnancy - pathological condition, which can lead to serious consequences and which requires mandatory surgical intervention.

Pain in the mammary glands in the first trimester of pregnancy is another discomfort that a woman cannot avoid. Painful sensations in the breasts in the early stages of pregnancy are a normal situation, which is explained by the preparation of the mammary glands of women for subsequent feeding of the child. Due to pregnancy, the breasts increase in size and become sore, especially in the nipple area. Typically, the pain goes away by the second trimester of pregnancy. But, important point: If, during a self-examination, mommy notices any lumps or formations in the breast, you should contact a mammologist.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, headaches may also occur. Doctors suggest that this is due to a surge in hormones and an increase in circulating blood volume. Headaches may intensify in the first trimester of pregnancy due to stress, poor posture, and changes in daily routine. And also with a decrease in sugar levels, dehydration, excessive doses of caffeine, and lack of sleep. And that’s why proper lifestyle, nutrition, and adherence to work and rest schedules are so important during pregnancy.

Don't worry, enjoy the magical period in your life and be happy!

Especially for- Ira Romaniy

Pregnancy is divided by doctors into three phases - trimesters. The first trimester lasts 12 weeks, this period is characterized by significant changes occurring in the body of a pregnant woman, since it is at this time that the formation and subsequent development of all systems and organs of the unborn baby occurs. A developing baby in the first trimester of pregnancy is called an embryo, and after 12 weeks it is already a fetus.

Of course, every woman’s pregnancy takes into account her individual characteristics, but certain stages of the baby’s development are still standard.

Let's look at the development month by month.

Month 1

During the first weeks of development, the heart, brain and lungs of the embryo are in the stage of formation, the same happens with the umbilical cord, which will subsequently provide proper nutrition to the baby and remove its waste products. At the end of the first month, the baby is a tadpole-like embryo no larger than a grain of rice.

At this stage, it is quite difficult to guess about pregnancy without conducting additional tests. However, a woman may notice that she begins to urinate more often, because, increasing in volume, the uterus begins to put pressure on bladder, as well as a sharp increase in progesterone in the blood will lead to consumption more liquid, and, consequently, its release.

Most women during this period notice changes in the mammary glands, which may become enlarged, and they may also experience throbbing, tingling or pain. Another symptom typical of this period is increased fatigue. At the beginning of pregnancy, approximately 60-80% of women suffer from morning sickness and vomiting, but sometimes nausea can continue 24 hours a day. The mood can change dramatically, emotions will manifest themselves in a wide variety of ways, from joy and admiration to deep depression. As the volume of circulating blood increases, a feeling of heat may occur.

Month 2

The formation of the amniotic membrane and placenta begins. At this stage of pregnancy, the embryo develops the spine and spinal cord, nerves, esophagus, heart, ligaments of the legs and shoulders. At the end of the second month of pregnancy, the length of the embryo reaches 33 mm, and its weight reaches 9 g. It already begins to look more like a person, its heart begins to beat, it has shoulders and legs with the beginnings of fingers. By the eighth week of pregnancy, eyes, ears and gums appear.

By this time, a woman usually already knows that she is pregnant; she needs to make an appointment with a doctor, who will determine the duration of her pregnancy and tell her how to behave so that the baby develops and grows without problems in the womb. There is increased fatigue and tiredness. It is necessary to include in your diet foods that contain complete proteins, minerals and vitamins.

Month 3

The baby is already starting to move, although he is still so small that the expectant mother cannot feel it; his nose and fingers are already formed. The embryo's head is still larger than its body, there are formed eyes, but the child cannot see yet. By the end of the third month, the baby’s organs and features are formed and begin to function. urinary system and the circulatory system, blood circulates between the membrane and the baby, the placenta begins to function. The child's genitals are already developed, but determining the gender is still quite difficult. The baby is approximately 7-9 cm in length and weighs up to 16-20 g. By the end of the first trimester, the baby grows to the size of a small lemon.

The first trimester is coming to an end, the likelihood of miscarriage is decreasing, the woman should already be registered with the antenatal clinic. During this period, the first tests are carried out to determine abnormalities in the development of the fetus, this is an ultrasound scan of the fetus; if necessary, a test for determining human chorionic gonadotropin can be prescribed. A general examination is also carried out and the first urine and blood tests are done.

Nausea and lethargy gradually begin to subside, and in subsequent periods of pregnancy the woman feels much better. If the first trimester of pregnancy passed without debilitating vomiting, then by the end of it the woman will gain up to 1.3 - 2 kg, this is approximately 10% of the total weight gain expected by the end of pregnancy.

By the end of the first trimester the size of the uterus is approximately the size of a large orange; you may want to consider wearing looser clothing as your figure begins to round out.

There are some important things to know during the first trimester of pregnancy:

Sometimes painful involuntary cramps in the legs may appear at night; light exercises can prevent them. During pregnancy, vaginal discharge may increase. If they acquire an unpleasant odor or itching or discoloration appear, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Constant nausea can lead to dehydration and insufficient blood supply. nutrients, therefore you should drink more during pregnancy, often, but little by little. It is also necessary to eat right. Weight, age, previous diseases, characteristics of pregnancy - all this matters for vitamin and diet pregnant woman.

The 1st–12th week of pregnancy is the period of formation and differentiation of all future organs and systems, therefore the first trimester is important and responsible for the development of the baby. A balanced diet for a pregnant woman is the first step towards the health of the unborn child, which will allow her small body to cope with infections, prevent the appearance of pregnancy, have strong bones, good abilities to learning at any age.

Of all the environmental factors, nutrition plays main role. Improper and insufficient intake of nutrients during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, birth defects, and developmental delays. And the lack of certain vitamins, micro- and macroelements can affect both the development of the fetus and the future health of the child.

Features of the diet of a pregnant woman

In the first trimester, the nature of nutrition and lifestyle do not differ much from what the woman was accustomed to before pregnancy. When the fetus is still small, it is most sensitive to the lack of nutrients and nutrients, so it is important that the pregnant woman eats as varied as possible in the first trimester, including as many different foods as possible, using daily sources of natural vitamins and minerals: definitely greens, seafood, nuts , seeds, fermented milk products.

The energy value of food should be increased by only 100 kcal, i.e. 2200–2700 kcal/day, distributed as follows: carbohydrates - 55%, fats - 30%, proteins - 15%.

PROTEIN

Protein must be present in the diet of a pregnant woman. It is necessary for the growth of the uterus and the proper development of the fetus.

Protein is necessary for the growth of the fetus, uterus and placenta, amniotic fluid, and increasing the volume of a woman's circulating blood. From the first months of pregnancy, there is an increased need for proteins, 1.5 g per 1 kg of the pregnant woman’s weight per day, this is approximately 60–90 g. Not only their quantity, but also their quality is important. The diet should consist of 50% protein of plant origin, 50% of animal origin (of which 25% are meat and fish, 20% are dairy products and 5% are eggs). Long-term consequences for the child as a result of insufficient protein intake - risk of development diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension.

FATS

Fats, as sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, ensure normal development of the brain, visual apparatus, and intellectual abilities. Fats should come in the form of vegetable oils, but lamb, pork and beef should be kept to a minimum. You can eat up to 80 g of fat per day, 25 g of which can be butter.

CARBOHYDRATES

Carbohydrates are main source energy, and their regular use will relieve a pregnant woman from such problems as constipation. Carbohydrates are supposed to be 500 g/day, but if you are initially overweight, you should limit yourself to 300–350 g/day. They should be eaten with cereals (buckwheat, oatmeal, rice), fresh vegetables, fruits (it is recommended to eat fruits of six different colors per day), bread (1-2 pieces per day).

Interesting to know! Scientists from New Zealand (University of Southampton) have proven that a diet low in sugar and starch in early pregnancy can change the DNA of the unborn child. Subsequently, these children may have weight problems (by the age of 7–9 years), and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases increases.

LIQUID

In the early stages of pregnancy, the amount of liquid you drink may not be limited. Along with soups and cereals, about 2 liters should be supplied. When choosing drinks, stop at compotes from fresh fruit, fruit drinks, natural juices. It is better to drink juices freshly squeezed from domestic fruits and vegetables.

• You should eat freshly prepared home-cooked food.
• In order for food to be absorbed better, you need to not be lazy and chew longer (up to 40 times one lump of food), so, by the way, satiety will come faster.
• Do not combine with potatoes.
• Dress salads rather than with mayonnaise or sour cream.
• What to eat daily:

1. Meat or fish – 150 g/day,
2. Milk (kefir) – no more than 240 ml/day,
3. Cottage cheese – 50 g,
4. Bread – 150 g,
5. Vegetables – up to 500 g,
6. Fresh berries and fruits – up to 500 g/day.

• It is advisable to have a full breakfast, lunch and dinner, distributing calories as follows: for breakfast 25–30%, second breakfast 10%, lunch – 40%, afternoon snack – 10%, dinner – 10%. During breaks, eat fruit or yogurt.
• You need to eat in small portions.
• The main meal (lunch) should be received before 13:30.
• And of course, don’t eat after 19:00; before going to bed, you can drink a glass of kefir, yogurt, or eat a little cottage cheese.
• IN summer period Consume up to 60% of fruits and greens, and 40% are vegetables, nuts, and legumes. IN winter period- vice versa.
• It is recommended to consume local fruits and vegetables because they are less likely to cause allergies. There are seeds and nuts.
• Include food enriched with pectin in your diet; it stimulates intestinal function and prevents constipation.

What vitamins and nutrients should you pay attention to in the first trimester of pregnancy?

In the first trimester of pregnancy, it is extremely important for a woman to get enough folic acid.

It is known that the embryo in the early stages is very sensitive to changes in the amount of vitamins and minerals. Deficiency of various nutrients leads to congenital malformations in the fetus, miscarriage, placental insufficiency, anemia, gestosis and other complications of pregnancy. Vitamins ensure the normal course of pregnancy and intrauterine development of the fetus. With varied and proper nutrition A pregnant woman does not need to take vitamin preparations, only in the autumn-winter period all pregnant women are recommended to take complex vitamin preparations, specialized products for pregnant women, etc.

On a note! It should be remembered: the longer a vegetable or fruit is stored, the less vitamins are retained in it. During drying, freezing and heat treatment, foods also lose a number of vitamins.

In products during heat treatment:

• Folic acid. She refers to. Folic acid deficiency in the early stages often leads to malformations of the baby's neural tube. The norm for a pregnant woman is at least 400 mcg/day. It is found in broccoli, spinach, peppers (green), and citrus fruits. Long-term consequences of folic acid deficiency are neuropsychiatric disorders, cardiovascular diseases Therefore, folic acid is prescribed to absolutely all women in the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Vitamin A. This is the only vitamin that requires special rigor during pregnancy. It has been experimentally proven that with vitamin A deficiency, various malformations of the visual organs, cardiovascular system, respiratory and genitourinary system fetus But even a slight increase in its dose can lead to serious problems for both the mother and the baby. Therefore, when taking complex vitamins, you need to choose only intended for pregnant women with a vitamin A content of 1200–1400 mcg (3900–4620 IU).
• . Plays a very important role for the first 14 weeks of pregnancy: ensures normal functioning of the placenta, normalizes blood flow between the woman’s body and the fetus, promotes normal hormonal balance, thereby maintaining pregnancy and preventing miscarriage, participates in the formation of organs and prevents intrauterine disorders of fetal development, smoothes out the harmful effects of the environment environment.
• Iron. It is worth noting iron: its deficiency can cause premature birth, development of anemia in a newborn child. The daily requirement is 15–20 mg.

From the practice of a local pediatrician! Women with normal hemoglobin levels and those who are anemic but take iron supplements are more likely to give birth to babies with normal hemoglobin levels. But for women who have low level hemoglobin and refuse to take iron supplements, children are more often born with hemoglobin below normal and it is not always possible to restore it up to a year with iron supplements the first time.

• Iodine. If intake is insufficient, it can cause miscarriage, impaired intellectual and neuropsychic development, and hypothyroidism. Long-term consequences are impaired neuropsychic development, short stature, delayed sexual development, so you should eat seafood and walnuts. In iodine-deficient areas, all pregnant women are prescribed.
• Calcium and phosphorus. Calcium needs 1 g/day, phosphorus - twice as much. Calcium-rich foods: cheese, yolks, milk.

On a note! 0.8–1.2 liters of milk per day will completely provide the pregnant woman’s body with calcium and phosphorus.

Additional vitamin and mineral supplements are needed:

• If the volume and caloric content of food is insufficient - folic acid, .
• For multiple pregnancies - vitamin C.
• In the presence of bad habits– iron, zinc, copper, calcium.
• For strict vegetarians – vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium.
• For residents of the northern regions - .

Weight gain

In the first half of pregnancy, weight gain is insignificant - 1.5–2 kg; a pregnant woman should not lose weight. And it would be nice to buy floor scales.

Interesting to know! It turns out that if a pregnant woman lacks nutrition, then a gene begins to work in the fetus that promotes maximum absorption of nutrients from a limited amount of food. Then, when the child is born, begins to grow and develop, and enough food is supplied, it may develop, since the gene “turned on” in the prenatal period continues to promote maximum absorption of nutrients, as if they were still lacking.

Nutrition for toxicosis in the first half of pregnancy

Regarded as a complication of pregnancy. The cause of this condition is unknown, but the good news is that it goes away by 12–14 weeks. Toxicosis manifests itself as nausea and vomiting in the morning, and odor intolerance.
Tips to help cope with toxicosis:

• If you feel nauseous, you should eat small portions.
• Avoid sweets (when eating sweets, your blood sugar level changes sharply, which can cause vomiting), high-calorie and fatty foods.
• Avoid foods that cause nausea.
• Eat food warm and never hot.
• Not to do sudden movements, they can provoke vomiting.
• Stop smoking; nicotine increases the secretion of gastric juice, which can cause vomiting;
• For persistent vomiting, drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day;
• If you have toxicosis, you should eat more foods rich in vitamins C and B.
• Lemon helps to cope with bouts of vomiting, sauerkraut, dried apricots, ginger, decoction of dill seeds, herbal decoctions (mint, valerian root, calendula, yarrow leaves). When taking herbal decoctions, you must keep in mind that their effect on the fetus has not been studied!

Anemia during pregnancy

To prevent the development of anemia, a woman needs to eat foods rich in iron.

A decrease in hemoglobin during pregnancy is no exception and occurs in almost half of women. Anemia is manifested by a decrease in hemoglobin in a blood test, fatigue, pallor of the skin and mucous membranes, and the flickering of “flies” before the eyes. If hemoglobin values ​​are less than 100, you need to contact your gynecologist to choose an iron-containing drug.

To keep hemoglobin within normal values ​​(not lower than 120), you should include meat and vegetable dishes in your diet. Among meat products The leader in iron content is beef (pork is inferior, poultry meat is not considered to contain iron), liver, kidneys and heart are slightly inferior to beef. Products of plant origin include apples, pomegranates, peaches, tomatoes, herbs, and buckwheat.

In case of anemia, it is advisable to reduce the amount of dairy and carbohydrate foods, exclude black tea and coffee (they interfere with the absorption of iron in the digestive organs). But you should definitely eat foods rich in vitamin C and copper; on the contrary, they help iron to be absorbed in the body.

You should take iron supplements and follow a diet even after your hemoglobin level has been restored, because the growth of the fetus increases the load on the body, plus you need to prepare for blood loss during childbirth.

What foods should you avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy?

1. Alcohol. Alcohol is one of the most toxic substances that is dangerous for a baby, especially in the first trimester, when the baby's organs are just beginning to develop. Alcohol easily penetrates through the placenta to the fetus, disrupts the blood circulation between the body of the mother and the child, and as a result, nutrients do not reach the child in full. It is important to know that drinking alcohol can cause birth defects, most often the nervous system, and insufficient weight gain.
2. Caffeine. Along with alcohol is dangerous product during the formation of the baby's organs. These include: tea (black and green), natural coffee, energy drinks, cola. It is advisable to avoid these drinks completely or at least limit your intake. Caffeine easily crosses the placenta and can affect the baby's heart and respiratory system. Consequences: miscarriages, sudden infant death syndrome, low weight, and high doses of caffeine can cause congenital anomalies.
3. Medicines. To date, the effect of medications on the body of the unborn child has not been sufficiently studied. Therefore, it is recommended not to take any medications on your own, and in case of any complaints, contact a gynecologist, since he, having experience, will be able to select the right drug and in the right dosage if necessary, and only if their benefit outweighs the harm to the child and mother. And in the first trimester, since organs are being laid, any medications are contraindicated. The gynecologist will prescribe taking folic acid, vitamin E, possibly iron and iodine - the expectant mother must take these harmless and very necessary medications without fail and conscientiously.
4. Vitamin A. It is necessary for the body of a pregnant woman; it should not be taken above the permissible dosage and the consumption of foods with a high content of it should be limited. It is for this reason that liver dishes should be avoided in the diet.
5. And of course, you should remember that fried, smoked, fast food, sweets and baked goods, food stuffed with chemical additives will not benefit either the mother or her unborn child.

Special diets

• Vegetarianism.

It is possible for vegetarian women to maintain their lifestyle during pregnancy. It is necessary to eat vegetable protein; additional intake of iron supplements and vitamins B12 and D is possible.

• Lactose intolerance.

Dairy products are a source of calcium, but some people experience discomfort after consuming them: bloating, loose or hard stools, rumbling, gas formation - these are signs of lactase deficiency, i.e. intolerance to milk and products made from it. During pregnancy, these symptoms decrease slightly, but if discomfort still forces a woman to give up on them, then she should eat more foods rich in calcium (cheese, salmon, cabbage (especially broccoli), spinach, almonds, figs, beans).

A healthy and balanced diet for a pregnant woman is the most effective and natural method of preventing diseases of the unborn baby. Guided by simple rules, a woman can and should give the world a beautiful, strong man.

The 1st trimester of pregnancy is the initial, but very important stage of pregnancy, during which the formation of all organs and systems of the unborn baby occurs.
The first trimester is also quite difficult for the mother, since right now she will have to face most of the difficulties of the entire pregnancy.

1st trimester of pregnancy: how many weeks is it and when does it end?

The early period of pregnancy or the first trimester lasts 13 obstetric weeks. It is counted from the first day of the last menstruation, after which conception occurred. Many young mothers are perplexed why, at the first examination by a gynecologist, just a week after the delay, they are given a period of 5-6 weeks, although in fact the baby in the tummy is no more than 3.5-4 weeks.

The answer to this riddle is simple - the first month of pregnancy in medical practice lasts 6, not 4 calendar weeks, since the calculation of the period also takes into account those 14 days from the start of the last menstruation, when the egg was preparing for fertilization. This is the period when your unborn baby makes a serious “journey” through the fallopian tubes towards the uterus, which will become his home over the next nine months.

First trimester of pregnancy: what happens

The first trimester, like the next two three-month periods of bearing a child, has its own characteristic features. During this period, in the body of the pregnant woman and the embryo, important processes, which set the course of the entire course of pregnancy. Depending on individual characteristics, each woman experiences the early stage of pregnancy differently.

Almost constant companions of all mothers in the first weeks are:

1. overwhelming fatigue
2. nausea
3. headache and fainting
4. drowsiness
5. depression and irritability
6. thrush

But you can easily overcome bad health if you have the right mindset. A review of your lifestyle will help you cope with toxicosis and raging hormones. Try to relax more and walk in the fresh air, change your diet, replacing the sandwich menu with healthy food - this will help you quickly “adapt” to the appearance of a “tenant” in your stomach.

What happens to the child:
In the first three months, the embryo actively develops. In the fifth week, serious processes take place in his body to form important organs: liver, kidneys and digestive system. At the sixth week, the baby’s heart completes its formation, which from that moment begins to contract. By the 12th week, the embryo is already completely human-like - its height is 5-6 cm and its weight is 9-14 g.

Nutrition during pregnancy 1st trimester

Nutrition in the first trimester is a pressing issue for women in labor suffering from toxicosis, against the background of which there is an absolute aversion to everything related to food. What to eat at early to provide a developing baby with all the necessary nutrients in full?

It is best to select the diet and diet in the early stages based on your individual preferences, especially when toxicosis is raging and all foods in the eyes of a pregnant woman are divided into two categories - impossible to eat and acceptable. Fractional meals will help combat this problem - little by little, but often.

What is healthy to eat and drink: boiled meat and fish, vegetable soups, fruits and vegetables in any form, dairy products. You need to give up everything fried, spicy and sour, although it is better to leave pickled cucumber or sauerkraut on the menu - they stimulate appetite and help smooth out the symptoms of toxicosis.

A healthy menu for the first trimester should include the following dishes:

• Bran flakes, muesli and porridge;
• Vegetable soups in light broth and stewed stews;
• Vegetable and fruit salads;
• Steamed meat and fish cutlets, casseroles
• Milk puddings

For a snack, it is better to give up fast food and sandwiches, and stock up on biscuits and juice, which you can use to “eat up” nausea in several sittings between main meals.

Tests for pregnant women in the first trimester

The first trimester of pregnancy is the busiest in terms of medical examination. It is during this period that women are prescribed many tests in order to draw up the correct plan for monitoring the course of pregnancy.

The list of mandatory tests and examinations includes:

1. blood for HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, TORCH infections, hepatitis B and C, group and Rh factor, hemoglobin;
2. general urine analysis;
3. vaginal microflora smear;
4. electrocardiogram of the heart.

Also, at an early stage, gynecologists give the pregnant woman a referral to undergo medical examination by specialized specialists: a neurologist, an ophthalmologist, an otolaryngologist, a dentist, a surgeon and a therapist.

Discharge during pregnancy in the first trimester

The first trimester is considered the most dangerous period of pregnancy, during which miscarriage can occur. The main symptom of threatened miscarriage and miscarriage is bleeding.

Very often, in the first three months, expectant mothers experience vaginal discharge of various types and shades. The norm is a mucous discharge of a whitish hue, which intensifies under the influence of the pregnancy hormone progesterone.

You should immediately consult a doctor if you experience:

• Dark yellow, yellowish, yellowish or brown discharge. They may indicate the presence of a sexually transmitted infection or fetal death.
• White discharge with a cheesy consistency. They are a sign of thrush, which can cause pathology in the fetus.
• Bloody discharge or spotting, which may be a sign of miscarriage.

Sex in the first trimester of pregnancy

In the 1st trimester, when future parents are not yet accustomed to their new status, the question of sex becomes acute in married couples - is it possible or not? Obstetricians even allow mothers to have intimate relationships in the first trimester if there is no threat of miscarriage.

But at this stage, the opponents of sex are often women who, against the backdrop of a hormonal surge and constant malaise, no longer have the desire to have an intimate relationship. This problem can only be solved individually. Psychologists recommend that caring dads do not despair and wait a little - when the expectant mother “gets used” to pregnancy, she will definitely remember her husband, who needs her affection.

Sports during pregnancy first trimester

Often expectant mothers who lead an active lifestyle before pregnancy find it difficult to give up sports. According to obstetricians, this is not worth doing, since today the concept of never “shaking” a baby in the stomach is considered outdated, and for an easy birth, gynecologists even advise women to go to the gym, but without fanaticism.

Of course, you should give up training with increased physical activity, active running and abdominal pumping. But cycling, swimming, yoga or gymnastics - these activities will even be useful for expectant mother.

First trimester of pregnancy: do's and don'ts

The first trimester is a very important period in the development of the baby. What can and cannot be done in the first three months so as not to harm the baby?
Indeed, with the onset of pregnancy, women have to give up many habits. But this does not mean that you need to radically change your lifestyle. At the same time, it is still worth familiarizing yourself with categorical “taboos”, since they promise danger for the baby.

Categorical “don’ts” of the first trimester:

1. alcohol, cigarettes, coffee and soda;
2. prolonged exposure to the sun;
3. physical exercise;
4. stress;
5. toxic substances;
6. medications without a doctor's prescription.

The main “dos” of the first trimester are:

1. calmness,
2. complete rest,
3. outdoor walks,
4. sleep and healthy eating.

Pregnancy 1st trimester: what you need to know

Are you becoming a mother for the first time and are confused when you see two lines on the test, not knowing what to do first? The algorithm is simple: visit a gynecologist, register with a antenatal clinic, undergo the necessary examination and enjoy your interesting position.

At this stage, it is not necessary to give up work and travel if they are planned. If you feel well and there are no medical contraindications, you can fly by plane, so you can safely go to hot countries - this will not harm either the baby or the mother.

It is important to remember that during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, any colds or taking medications are dangerous. Even with a simple runny nose, you should immediately visit a gynecologist and get qualified recommendations, without self-medicating with the use of even those drugs that are sold without a prescription.

There are countless factors that can have a negative impact on pregnancy in the first trimester. But do not despair - it is possible to avoid problems when carrying a child.

Rules of the first trimester: calmness and following all the recommendations of the gynecologist, proper rest and sleep, avoidance of stress and overwork, healthy eating and a proper drinking regime.

And don’t forget, bearing a child is not a disease that needs to be treated, but a wonderful condition given to a woman by nature. Enjoy it, and then your pregnancy will pass like one happy moment.

first trimester

Fetal development at 1 week of pregnancy

Of course, it is still very early to talk about the development of the fetus - conception has not yet occurred, and, most likely, the next menstruation is still ongoing. If conception occurs in this cycle, it will be known no earlier than in 3-4 weeks (and then it will be possible to listen to the body: the first signs of pregnancy will gradually appear).
And today, one of the thousands of eggs - the one that will be fertilized - has not even left the ovary yet. In the first days of the menstrual cycle, the growth of one of the primary follicles began: at this time, on the 7-8th day of the cycle, you can, if necessary, conduct an ultrasound examination to determine whether a dominant follicle has emerged, which will burst in a few days and ovulation will occur.

Mother's condition at 1 week of pregnancy

You also need to prepare for pregnancy - and if the expectant mother has not done this yet, it’s time to start. First of all, it is important to reconsider your lifestyle: give up bad habits - smoking, including passive smoking, drinking alcohol. It is better to discuss taking any medications with your doctor - many medications are contraindicated during pregnancy. But you can start taking folic acid now - it promotes the proper growth and development of the embryo.

2 weeks pregnant

first trimester

Fetal development at 2 weeks of pregnancy

Soon it will be clear whether conception has occurred - at the moment of ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary, the most active sperm will win its first race in life and fertilize it. The sex of the baby will be determined by the future father - the sex chromosome XY is included in his genetic set, when combined with the chromosomes of the future mother XX, a girl will be born, XY - a boy. Of course, there is an opinion that the gender of the child can be planned different ways, but none of them, unfortunately, have scientific confirmation. But it makes sense to visit a geneticist even before conception - during a consultation, he will analyze your family history and give recommendations on possible risks.

Mother's condition at 2 weeks of pregnancy

Most likely, ovulation will occur next week or at the end of this week. To determine the days favorable for conception, you can measure the basal temperature - immediately after menstruation it stays in the range of 36.6-36.8, that is, below 37 degrees, and before ovulation it decreases by several degrees, and then rises sharply to 37-37. 2. Another way is to count according to the calendar: ovulation usually occurs 14 days before the start of the next menstruation.

3 weeks pregnant

first trimester

Fetal development at 3 weeks of pregnancy

At the beginning of its development, the embryo does not yet look like a person at all - it is, rather, a cluster of cells that can only be seen with the most powerful microscope. As a result of the fusion of an egg and a sperm (it is this that determines the sex of the child), a zygote is formed - a cell from which in the future all 100 thousand billion cells of the child’s body will develop. The zygote begins to fragment and at the same time move along the fallopian tube towards the uterus. On the third day from conception, the fertilized egg consists of 16 cells, two days later - already 250. On days 6-7, the fertilized egg will begin to “grow” blood vessels into the uterine mucosa to provide nutrition to the unborn child. Starting next week, the embryo will receive all the substances necessary for growth and development from the mother.

Mother's condition at 3 weeks of pregnancy

The first signs of pregnancy appear: increased sensitivity or tenderness of the breasts, fatigue. However, it is worth remembering that the same changes in well-being often precede the onset of menstruation. In the first days after conception, the mother’s body begins to produce the so-called “early pregnancy factor” (EPF in English). This substance allows you to avoid the attack of the mother's immune system on fetal cells that have a different gene structure.

Pay attention to 3 weeks pregnant

If you plan to become pregnant, at the 3rd week of your cycle you can start taking folic acid, vitamin E and iodomarin, or it is better to create a nutrition plan with foods containing folic acid, vitamin E and iodine in the required quantities. If pregnancy occurs, the basal temperature chart by the end of the 3rd week will show a low-grade temperature (about 37 degrees) - as during the ovulation period. If the temperature returns to normal, most likely, conception has not occurred. However, a slightly elevated basal temperature can signal not only pregnancy, but also a mild cold.

Risk factors at 3 weeks of pregnancy

After ovulation, especially if there is a possibility of pregnancy, you should not take x-rays or take strong drugs (for example, antiviral, psychotropic, etc.). It is advisable to write down the names of all medicines that the expectant mother takes - if pregnancy occurs, it makes sense to show this list to the antenatal clinic doctor at the first appointment.

4 weeks pregnant

first trimester

Fetal development at 4 weeks of pregnancy

This week the development of the so-called extra-embryonic organs occurs: chorion, amnion and yolk sac. They are needed to ensure nutrition, breathing and protection of the unborn child from external influences. The embryo itself has a length from 0.36 mm (at the beginning of the week) to 1 mm (at the end), and is shaped like a disk, consisting of three germ layers. The inner layer (endoderm) is responsible for the formation of the lungs, liver, digestive system, and pancreas. The middle layer (mesoderm) works on the development of the skeleton, muscular system, kidneys, blood vessels and heart. From the outer layer (ectoderm) skin, hair, eyes, tooth enamel and nervous system child. By the end of this week, the baby's head is formed.

Mother's condition at 4 weeks of pregnancy

At the very beginning of pregnancy, many women experience inexplicable irritability, increased fatigue, mammary glands swell, and nipples become unusually sensitive. The corpus luteum, which forms in the ovary after the release of the egg, is responsible for these manifestations. The corpus luteum actively produces progesterone, which changes the hormonal background of the expectant mother. In addition, the mother's body begins to produce a new hormone - human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). It is detected in the body after implantation of the embryo into the wall of the uterus - first in the blood, and a little later in the woman’s urine.

Pay attention to 4 weeks pregnant

Using a blood test, the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the mother’s body can be determined as early as the 10th day of pregnancy, but it is too early to consult a doctor to confirm pregnancy. Pharmacy tests can detect the presence of hCG in urine only 2-2.5 weeks after conception. Therefore, if the pharmacy test at the end of 4 weeks did not show two stripes, this does not mean that there is no pregnancy. Tests may give incorrect results due to poor storage conditions or too low sensitivity of the control layer. It is worth remembering that pharmacy tests show the most accurate result in the morning, when the concentration of hCG in the urine is highest.

Risk factors at 4 weeks of pregnancy

Drinking alcohol and smoking are not the healthiest habits of the expectant mother, but at the 3-4th week they do not have an effect on the fetus, since it feeds and develops from its own resources. However, now, if there is a possibility of pregnancy, you should give up alcoholic beverages. You should also exclude X-ray examinations and the use of drugs whose annotations include a contraindication of “pregnancy”.

5th week of pregnancy

first trimester

Baby development at 5 weeks of pregnancy

Formation begins internal organs embryo: liver, pancreas, upper respiratory tract (larynx and trachea) and heart. Highly sensitive ultrasound machines with a transvaginal sensor as early as this week can show the spinal chord and the so-called neural tube, which will become, respectively, the spine and spinal cord of the baby. Somites develop along the neural tube - tissue segments from which the brain will subsequently arise. muscle. The yolk sac begins to produce gonoblasts - primary germ cells, which in the future will become sperm if the baby is a boy, or eggs if it is a girl. The fertilized egg occupies a quarter of the volume of the uterus, while the embryo itself resembles a cylinder about 2 mm long.

Mother's condition at 5 weeks of pregnancy

The mother's body begins to react more and more actively to pregnancy. Headaches may become more frequent, drowsiness, nausea and even vomiting may appear, and appetite may decrease. These are signs of early pregnancy toxicosis. And their cause is hormonal changes caused by an increase in the level of the hormone progesterone. In addition, the placenta produces a special hormone - placental lactogen, which actively affects a woman’s metabolism. Thus, the placenta and fetus take over control of the mother’s body’s metabolism, which, in turn, resists such interference, provoking toxicosis. Women with liver and gastrointestinal diseases experience early toxicosis more often than others.

Pregnancy complications at 5 weeks of pregnancy

Normally, nausea and vomiting can be felt 2-3 times a day in the morning, most often on an empty stomach. Therefore, to avoid morning vomiting, it is recommended to have a snack without getting out of bed - this will reduce the urge to feel sick. There are several ways to alleviate the manifestations of early toxicosis. For example, you can use physiotherapy, herbal and aromatherapy. In particular, inhalation of vapors essential oil ginger (ground in the palms or dissolved in boiling water during inhalation) helps reduce nausea. Sometimes the therapist may offer immunocytotherapy: during this procedure, the woman is subcutaneously injected with lymphocytes from the child’s father (relief occurs in about a day), or drug treatment. However, most often they advise to simply “endure” toxicosis. It usually goes away with the beginning of the second trimester, after the 12th week of pregnancy.

Diagnostic tests at 5 weeks of pregnancy

Many women worry that their pregnancy will be ectopic or not developing (“frozen”). At this time, it is still almost impossible to find out whether this is so, so it is too early to consult a doctor. It is recommended to do this at 6-7 weeks, when the diagnosis becomes more indicative, unless there are signs of any disorders - pain, bleeding.

Family relationships at 5 weeks of pregnancy

The family's lifestyle will now change - the future father and mother need time to get used to their new roles. You should not attach much importance to conflicts that may occur in the first days after receiving news of pregnancy. Often the reaction of the child's father is not exactly what the expectant mother dreams of. It makes sense to be patient - when the first shock passes, the man will regain the ability for constructive dialogue. You should not be upset if the child’s father behaves as if there is no pregnancy - he does not feel the changes in the body that the expectant mother feels, so you can hardly expect complete empathy from him. Soon he will see how his belly grows, feel the baby’s movements - and everything will change. It is better to give your husband time to fully understand his impending fatherhood. And to help him with this, you can calculate the approximate date of birth together with him: for example, by subtracting 3 months from the day the last menstruation began and adding 7 days.

6th week of pregnancy

first trimester

Fetal development at 6 weeks of pregnancy

The size of the baby (from the crown to the sacrum) reaches 4-6 mm. The baby is freely placed in the amniotic sac and is connected to the uterus using the umbilical cord that has formed these days. During this week unborn child resembles a fish embryo - it has gills and a tail, which then, during development, will disappear. At the 6th week of pregnancy, the heart of the embryo begins to beat. Heart rate is from 100 to 160 beats per minute, which is almost 2 times higher than that of an adult. The child’s mouth, nose and ears are already forming, the rudiments of the brain, liver, pancreas, lungs and stomach are developing. The liver begins to produce blood cells, and the brain begins to control the functioning of the muscles and heart.

Mother's condition at 6 weeks of pregnancy

Early toxicosis is gaining momentum: intolerance to certain odors and increased salivation appear. You may feel a slight tingling sensation in your breasts as your mammary glands are preparing to start producing milk in 8 months. The areolas around your nipples will likely begin to darken. To improve your well-being, doctors recommend changing your diet: eating more often, up to 7 times a day, but in small portions. To avoid morning sickness, you can have your first breakfast right in bed. It is better to take vitamins for pregnant women at a time of day when the manifestations of toxicosis are minimal. In order to replenish the loss of fluid and salts in case of vomiting, it makes sense to eat juicy fruits and vegetables: watermelon, melon, persimmon, pears, cucumbers and tomatoes.

Visit to the doctor at 6 weeks of pregnancy

Week 6-7 is the ideal time to see a doctor for the first time. Most likely, the doctor will perform the first ultrasound to rule out ectopic pregnancy, non-developing pregnancy and the so-called “hydatidiform mole” (an anomaly in which there is no pregnancy, but the hCG level is very high). The doctor will also determine the size of the expectant mother’s pelvis and take a family and obstetric history. You can prepare for your visit to the antenatal clinic. It makes sense to make a list of illnesses suffered in childhood and find out how the mother’s birth went. It is also worth finding out: whether there are genetic diseases or abnormalities in the pregnant woman’s family or her husband’s family (hemophilia, color blindness), whether there were twins in the family. All this will help the doctor fill out the card. Also, at 6-7 weeks it is already possible to determine a multiple pregnancy.

Diagnostic tests at 6 weeks of pregnancy

During the first visit to the doctor, a blood test from a vein is prescribed. The so-called TORCH complex will determine whether the mother’s blood contains antibodies to toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes. Rubella is most dangerous for the fetus if infection occurs during pregnancy (especially in the first trimester), so if antibodies are not detected in the mother’s blood, then she and all her loved ones should avoid interaction with potential carriers of the infection. According to statistics, up to 90 percent of people are carriers of the herpes virus - the analysis will show whether herpes is in this moment in the latent or acute phase, or primary infection occurred during pregnancy. The attending physician will tell you what consequences these infections can have on the child’s development.

Risk factors at 6 weeks of pregnancy

An alarming signal may be a sudden cessation of the onset of toxicosis: this may indicate that the pregnancy has stopped developing. If you notice the development of a herpetic infection (“cold” on the lips or wings of the nose), in no case should you use antiviral drugs without a doctor’s prescription.

Family relationships at 6 weeks of pregnancy

The husband can become so “imbued” with his wife’s new condition that he begins to feel the manifestations of toxicosis along with her. The expectant father may experience headaches, weakness, fatigue and even nausea. It makes sense to switch your husband to more constructive experiences: for example, entrust him with taking care of healthy products for the expectant mother. If there is a cat living in the house, the husband also needs to take charge of cleaning the cat's litter box: until the results of the test for toxoplasmosis are received, it is better not to contact the potential source of infection.

Pay attention at 6 weeks of pregnancy

During pregnancy, you should review your diet and reduce your intake. fried foods, as well as spicy and smoked. In the morning it is useful to drink still water (to alleviate the symptoms of toxicosis, you can add lemon juice to it), and during the day - water, herbal teas, and freshly squeezed juices. The morning menu should contain as many products as possible containing coarse fiber (for example, porridge, grain bread). It is better to eat often, but in small portions. The daily diet of the expectant mother should include dried fruits and fermented milk products (to reduce intestinal problems), cottage cheese, fish (to replenish calcium deficiency), eggs and lean meat, fruits, and fresh vegetables. Light “night” meals are allowed shortly before going to bed.

7 weeks pregnant

first trimester

Fetal development at 7 weeks of pregnancy

During the 7th week, the child almost doubles in size - from 6 to 11-12 mm. By the end of the week, he weighs about 0.8 g. Hands and feet have appeared on his arms and legs - although in appearance they still resemble flippers. Both hemispheres of the brain continue to develop. The heart is divided into two chambers and protrudes from the body. The rudiments of the bronchi have appeared in the lungs, the intestines are actively growing, and kidneys are forming.

Mother's condition at 7 weeks of pregnancy

There may be cramps and even pain in the lower abdomen as the uterus continuously grows. Compared to the state before pregnancy, it became almost twice as large. Blood volume and total fluid volume in the body also increase. This, together with increased pressure from the uterus on the bladder, leads to increased urination. The mucus in the cervix becomes thick, forming a so-called mucus plug. This plug creates a protective barrier between external environment and the “microworld” of the embryo, and the passage of the plug will be one of the harbingers of childbirth.

Diagnostic tests at 7 weeks of pregnancy

Week 7 is the optimal time for the first visit to the doctor. Most often, at the first appointment, a blood test from a vein is prescribed for infections and hormones. The so-called TORCH complex will determine whether the mother’s blood contains antibodies to toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes. A blood test for HPV (human viral papillomatosis) is also usually prescribed. An ultrasound can already determine whether the pregnancy is developing correctly. Doctors have different opinions about the need for ultrasound: some consider it a completely safe diagnostic procedure, others believe that the child experiences discomfort during the procedure. There is no exact answer yet as to whether ultrasound causes discomfort to the unborn baby.

Visit to the doctor at 7 weeks of pregnancy

As a rule, at the first visit to a gynecologist, a pregnant woman receives referrals to see a therapist (to examine the general condition of the body), an otolaryngologist, a dentist (to detect and timely treat caries and foci of inflammation) and an ophthalmologist (he will give an opinion on the condition of the fundus of the eye and determine Is spontaneous childbirth possible or is caesarean section indicated? It makes sense to visit these specialists at the beginning of pregnancy in order to solve possible health problems in a timely manner, or, in the case of chronic diseases, to select an individual monitoring program from doctors.

Pay attention at 7 weeks of pregnancy

There is an alternative to traditional antenatal clinics: paid medical centers. They can monitor the entire pregnancy from beginning to end, undergo all tests and routine examinations and receive an exchange card - but only if the medical center is licensed to provide such services. The only thing that medical centers cannot provide is a birth certificate. But they are required to issue it at the antenatal clinic upon presentation of an exchange card. However, a birth certificate may not be needed if the birth is paid for under a voluntary health insurance contract.

Risk factors at 7 weeks of pregnancy

Any, even mild, bleeding or discharge of an unusual color or volume should be a reason for urgent consultation with a doctor - they may indicate a threat of miscarriage or disturbances in the development of the embryo. Drinking alcohol before 12 weeks is completely contraindicated: alcohol intoxication leads to mild hypoxia, which can impair difficult process laying of the most important organs of the child.

Legal issues at 7 weeks pregnant

Starting from the 7-8th week, you can inform your colleagues and superiors about your pregnancy - and thus “insure” yourself against staff reductions. A pregnant woman (as well as a woman on maternity leave), according to the legislation of the Russian Federation, cannot be fired. However, in the case of work under a contract, at the end of the contract the employer has the right not to renew the contract, regardless of whether the employee is pregnant.

8 weeks pregnant

first trimester

Fetal development at 8 weeks of pregnancy

The length of the baby from the top of the head to the buttocks is already 14-20 mm. The rudiments of fingers have appeared on the hands and feet, genitals are forming, bones and joints are developing, salivary glands. The formation of the heart is completed and its communication with large blood vessels improves. The stomach descends into the abdominal cavity and begins to “overgrow” with nerve elements, which will then be necessary for digestion.

Mother's condition at 8 weeks of pregnancy

The breasts begin to grow - the same hormone progesterone is responsible for its preparation for lactation, which becomes more and more abundant in the mother’s body every week. The glandular tissue of the breast begins to partially replace the fatty tissue. Weakness, dizziness, loss of strength are possible, and some pregnant women may experience sleep problems at the 8th week. Walking in the fresh air will help improve your well-being: 10-15 minutes of quiet walking after dinner will help you cope with insomnia.

Pay attention at 8 weeks of pregnancy

Pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area may intensify. Responsible for pain in the buttocks, lower back or hips sciatic nerve, which responds to an increase in the size of the uterus. This pain can be relieved by lying on the opposite side, thereby reducing the pressure of the uterus on the nerve. Many women note increased salivation, nasal congestion (“pregnant rhinitis”), and itchy skin. In themselves, these manifestations of toxicosis are not dangerous, although they cause inconvenience. It is better not to self-medicate. It makes sense to report these problems to your doctor; he will suggest ways to improve your well-being.

Risk factors at 8 weeks of pregnancy

The first trimester, and especially up to 8 weeks, is the time when the threat of miscarriage is most likely. When cramping or nagging pain in the abdomen, severe lower back pain or bloody discharge, you should immediately consult a doctor. Timely medical care can often prevent miscarriage. However, it is worth remembering that miscarriage often occurs due to serious genetic abnormalities of the fetus - a natural mechanism is triggered to prevent the birth of non-viable babies.

Diagnostic tests at 8 weeks of pregnancy

For the first “acquaintance” with the unborn child, you can choose not only a simple, but also a three-dimensional ultrasound. Some medical centers not only perform ultrasound examinations, but also give parents a photograph of the unborn child and the first video recording of his or her participation. However, it is worth remembering that 3D ultrasound is primarily a diagnostic procedure; you should not resort to it too often, just to look at the child. In addition, the result of such a study will not be a real photograph, but a picture created using a computer program from control points specified by the doctor - so the reliability of the child’s image is rather conditional.

9 weeks pregnant

first trimester

Fetal development at 9 weeks of pregnancy

The length of the baby from the top of the head to the buttocks is already about 22 - 30 mm, weight - about 1 gram. His heart already consists of 4 chambers (2 atria and 2 ventricles), the rudiments of baby teeth have begun to form, and the embryonic “tail” has disappeared. The brain develops intensively, the cerebellum (the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movements) is formed. The eyes are already fully formed, but until the 27th week they will be closed with eyelids. The fingers have become longer, and soon pads will form on them.

Mother's condition at 9 weeks of pregnancy

The uterus is constantly growing, and the volume of blood and lymphatic fluid increases every day. A slight increase in weight is possible: the body begins to “store” fats that it will need when the time comes to feed the baby milk. Your breasts may increase in size – it makes sense to buy a new support bra to reduce the strain on your skin and muscles. The nipple circles also enlarge, and the micro-glands on them, designed to secrete moisturizing and antibacterial lubricant, have become more noticeable and convex. It is also completely normal for a more defined vein pattern to appear on your chest.

Risk factors at 9 weeks of pregnancy

Even a common gastrointestinal disorder can be dangerous for pregnancy. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea caused by listeriosis (poisoning caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes) can lead to fetal hypoxia or even miscarriage. Therefore, a pregnant woman’s menu should not include unpasteurized milk, homemade cottage cheese and feta cheese (and other soft cheeses), undercooked meat and fish, raw eggs. Vegetables and fruits should be washed thoroughly before eating.

Pay attention at 9 weeks of pregnancy

Due to the fact that the baby requires more and more nutrients and fluids for its growth and comfortable existence in the uterus, the expectant mother may experience dry skin - it is now not sufficiently nourished and moisturized. It is better to give up soap and aggressive detergents, use shower creams, gels and moisturizing cleansing foams. For intimate hygiene, you can use special intimate gels with lactic acid - at the same time they will reduce the risk of thrush.

Visit to the doctor at 9 weeks of pregnancy

Until the 30th week (in the absence of complications), the doctor is visited once a month, from the 30th to the 36th week - twice a month, and then every week. Typically, a blood test and urine test are done at each visit. According to the recommendation of the Ministry of Health, the expectant mother will undergo three ultrasound scans during pregnancy. However, even in the absence of pregnancy complications, there may be more of them: first, at up to 12 weeks (in order to detect the presence of pregnancy and exclude ectopic pregnancy), then at 10-11 weeks, at 22 weeks, at 32 and 36 -38 weeks, closer to birth.

first trimester

Fetal development at 10 weeks of pregnancy

The baby already weighs about 4 grams and is 31–42 mm long. The main organs and systems of his body have already been formed; then only their growth will occur. After 10 weeks, the likelihood that the baby will have a developmental failure is very low. Now the child already looks like a person, and not a tadpole: the tail and gill slits have completely disappeared. The baby's elbow joints have formed and he can now bend and straighten his arms. Tiny nails have already appeared on the fingers and toes, and the skin is covered with a light fluff. The kidneys, intestines, brain and liver begin to function, all layers of the cerebral cortex have formed, and sensitive devices can already record your baby’s brain impulses. At 10 weeks, boys' testicles begin to produce the male hormone testosterone.

Mother's condition at 10 weeks of pregnancy

High levels of hormones continue to affect mood; periods of increased excitability or, conversely, apathy are possible. However, the first, most alarming trimester is coming to an end. If the doctor has not noticed any abnormalities in the development of the child, there is a high probability that the subsequent weeks of pregnancy will be more enjoyable: after all, they will be less difficult for the expectant mother and less dangerous for the baby.

Pay attention at 10 weeks of pregnancy

Fitness during pregnancy is not only acceptable, but also useful. During physical activity, even small ones, the blood is more actively saturated with oxygen, metabolism improves, and this has a positive effect on the well-being of not only the mother, but also the child. The ideal choice for a pregnant woman is walking, swimming, yoga or special sets of exercises for pregnant women.

Visit to the doctor at 10 weeks of pregnancy

Before the end of the first trimester, it makes sense to visit the doctor again. The fact is that up to the 12th week, the size of the fetus, determined using ultrasound, makes it possible to determine the gestational age with high accuracy. After the 12th week, the size of the child is already determined by genetic predisposition and other factors - and determining the exact duration of pregnancy and the preliminary date of birth will be somewhat more difficult. In addition, expectant mothers who register with the antenatal clinic before 12 weeks are paid a small one-time benefit.

first trimester

Fetal development at 11 weeks of gestation

The baby's weight is about 7 grams, he is already moving, but the mother is not yet able to feel these tremors. The neck is strengthened, the baby can already raise his head. The process of formation of the diaphragm may be accompanied by hiccups. The liver grows and develops; it is now the liver that performs all hematopoietic functions. A child's blood is not yet the same as the blood of an adult: it contains only red blood cells (erythrocytes). The child looks more and more proportionate, although his arms are still longer than his legs.

Mother's condition at 11 weeks of pregnancy

By the end of the first trimester, the expectant mother's metabolism becomes more intense by almost a quarter. Now her body requires even more nutrients than before the start of pregnancy, and more fluid - due to the fact that the volume of circulating blood has also increased significantly. Pregnancy hormones still affect digestion, slowing it down (this can cause constipation), so weight gain is still insignificant. In addition, toxicosis and heartburn negatively affect appetite. Due to excess hormones, the gums may become more sensitive and begin to bleed - the dentist will advise how to deal with this problem.

Visit to the doctor at 11 weeks of pregnancy

The first prenatal screening is usually scheduled this week. However, the mother has the right to refuse this procedure if she is sure that she will carry the child, regardless of the results of the study. However, if a woman has previously encountered problems during pregnancy (fetal malformations, non-developing pregnancy), if she is over 40 years old, or if there have been cases of children with pathologies in her family, she should not refuse screening. But it should be remembered that it does not always give 100% accurate results: the condition of the mother and fetus at the time of the study is influenced by too many factors. Often, despite poor screening results, completely healthy children are subsequently born.

Pregnancy complications at 11 weeks of pregnancy

If a pregnant woman has a history of genetic abnormalities, or the birth of children with defects, if the mother’s age is more than 35 years (during her first pregnancy), and if screening has shown an increased risk of having a child with developmental anomalies, the doctor may suggest a chorionic villus biopsy. The instrument is inserted into the uterus through its cervix or through a micropuncture in the abdominal area. The risk of miscarriage with such manipulations is small, about 1-2%. Chorionic villus biopsy, as well as amniotic sac puncture (amniocentesis), can detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. If the analysis (you need to wait about a week for its results) reveals serious abnormalities, it is possible to terminate the pregnancy before the end of the first trimester.

Diet at 11 weeks of pregnancy

first trimester

Fetal development at 12 weeks of pregnancy

The baby’s length is 6 cm. The first trimester, the most difficult and responsible for mother and child, is ending. Fetal development will now proceed a little differently. New organs are no longer formed, but those that have formed will grow and develop over the next 29 weeks. The baby has developed his first reflexes: he can close his eyes, open his mouth, and move his fingers in response to external stimuli. In the child’s skeleton, which consists mainly of cartilage, bone substance is now actively being formed. The small intestine is already able to contract.

Mother's condition at 12 weeks of pregnancy

The uterus has become too large to fit into the hip bones - so it protrudes slightly above the pubic joint. It can be felt by passing your hand 10-12 cm below the navel. Starting from this week, the uterus begins to actively grow upward, filling first the hip area and then the abdominal area.

Pregnancy complications at 12 weeks of pregnancy

Headaches may become more frequent. The most effective ways to improve your well-being simple ways- for example, resting in a cool, dark room, lying on your back (your legs can be placed on an elevated surface). Hot and cold compresses applied alternately to the area where the pain is located also help. If you are prone to migraines throughout 9 months, it is better to completely exclude cheese, coffee, chocolate and red wine from your diet. Often the cause of headaches is hunger - it is important to eat on time, without long breaks. During this period of pregnancy, heartburn often increases; this is the result of progesterone, which has a relaxing effect on the septum between the esophagus and the stomach. If you lie down during an attack of heartburn with a pillow under your head and back, the discomfort can be slightly reduced.

Risk factors at 12 weeks of pregnancy

Urinary tract infections are quite common in pregnant women. If urination is difficult or accompanied by pain and bloody discharge, you should consult a doctor immediately. Cystitis and pyelonephritis are diseases that need to be treated promptly. You should keep the kidney area warm, and also visit the toilet on time, immediately after the first urge to urinate - this will minimize the risk of disease.

Pregnancy Calendar

• first trimester, week 1 to 12
• , week from 13 to 28
• , week from 29 to 42