
What Happens in the First Trimester of Pregnancy?
The first trimester of pregnancy, which spans from week 1 to week 13, is a time of incredible changes and milestones. Whether you’re excited, nervous, or still processing your feelings, understanding what happens during this stage can help you navigate the journey ahead.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening with your body and your baby during these early weeks. But before we start, I want to tell you that if what you want is to get help right now you can click here to make an appointment or call us at (301) 587-9516.
The Beginning: Weeks 1-4
Pregnancy begins before you even realize it. Week 1 technically starts with the first day of your last menstrual period. Around week 2, ovulation occurs, and if an egg is fertilized by sperm, conception takes place.
By week 3 or 4, the fertilized egg implants itself in your uterus, starting the process of creating a new life. You may not feel any different just yet, but big changes are already happening inside your body.
Confirming Your Pregnancy
Around week 5, you might notice signs that prompt you to take a pregnancy test. Maybe you’ve missed a period, feel more tired than usual, or notice other early symptoms like nausea or tender breasts.
A pregnancy test can confirm if you’re expecting, and it’s essential to ensure the result is accurate. If you’re unsure or want additional confirmation, visiting a center like Centro Tepeyac can give you peace of mind. We offer free, reliable pregnancy tests and compassionate support to help you with your next steps.
The First Medical Visits
Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy, scheduling your first prenatal appointment is important. Your healthcare provider will run a series of tests to ensure everything is progressing as it should. These tests may include:
- Blood tests to check hormone levels and overall health.
- Screening for certain conditions or potential risks.
- Referrals for ultrasounds, which can confirm how far along you are and provide other valuable information.
Even though Centro Tepeyac doesn’t provide ultrasounds directly, we can connect you with trusted providers and assist you with applying for health insurance if needed.
The Baby’s Development: What’s Happening Inside?
During the first trimester, your baby is growing rapidly. Here are some of the key milestones:
- Weeks 4-5: The baby’s neural tube, which will become the brain and spinal cord, begins to form.
- Weeks 6-7: The baby’s heart starts beating, and small buds appear that will grow into arms and legs.
- Weeks 8-9: Facial features, such as the nose and lips, begin to develop, and tiny fingers and toes start forming.
- Weeks 10-13: Most major organs, like the liver, kidneys, and intestines, are forming or already functional. By the end of the first trimester, your baby is about the size of a lime!
Even though your baby is still very tiny, their development during these weeks lays the foundation for everything to come. If you want to see images of what the baby looks like at the age of 6 weeks, click here.
What You Might Experience
The first trimester can be a time of physical and emotional adjustments. Common symptoms include:
- Morning sickness: Nausea or vomiting, which can occur at any time of the day.
- Fatigue: Your body is working hard to support the pregnancy, so rest is essential.
- Mood swings: Hormonal changes can affect your emotions.
- Food cravings or aversions: You may suddenly love or dislike certain foods.
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or unsure during this time. Every pregnancy is unique, and there’s no “right” way to feel.
Why the First Trimester Matters
This early stage of pregnancy is critical for your baby’s development, and it’s also a time to prioritize your own health and well-being. Eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest can make a big difference.
If you have questions or concerns, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. At Centro Tepeyac, we’re here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can get the information and resources you need.
How We Can Help
Navigating the first trimester can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Centro Tepeyac, we offer free services to support you, including:
- Lab-quality pregnancy tests to confirm your pregnancy.
- Assistance with applying for health insurance so you can access the care you need.
- Referrals for ultrasounds and other resources.
- Compassionate guidance to help you explore your options and make informed decisions.
Each step of your pregnancy is a chapter in a beautiful and unique journey. If you’re in the first trimester and need support, reach out to us. We’re here to walk this journey with you, one step at a time.