What Are the Do’s And Don’ts During First Trimester Of Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a significant period in a woman’s life and, the first trimester lays the ground rules. The first trimester of pregnancy is defined as a period that starts from the first day of a pregnant woman’s last period and continues till the end of 12 weeks. If you are in your first trimester, it is recommended that you take the right pregnancy precautions and schedule your prenatal visit at one of the best maternity hospitals in Hyderabad or elsewhere and get the best suggestions in order to plan a healthy first trimester, and thus, a healthy pregnancy.

During the first trimester, a woman’s body shows numerous changes, thanks to the on-going processes that include the development of organs in the baby’s body. Don’t worry if you experience symptoms like fatigue and nausea besides breast tenderness as they are quite common. They will subside when you will enter the second trimester on their own. 

The initial twelve weeks of the pregnancy is known as the first trimester and it is referred as the first stage of the pregnancy. Do's of the first trimester of pregnancy involves getting the prenatal care and maintaining good health, taking rest and mental health. the don't of first trimester of pregnancy includes drinking alcohol, smoking, using drugs, and eating unhealthy foods. Keep reading the blog to know more about first three months of pregnancy dos and don ts that you need to follow.

Do’s and Don’ts: First Trimester

To make your first trimester healthy, you need to take certain precautions during first three months of pregnancy suggested by the experts from the best maternity hospital in India. These are listed below:

Do’s

• Supplements: In your first trimester, it’s healthy to take necessary supplements like calcium, folic acid, vitamin D, magnesium, probiotics, fish oil etc. as they fulfil the necessary nutrition requirements for both the mother and the baby.
• Rest: Fatigue is commonly experienced during the first trimester which makes it all the more important for you to take rest.
• Food: The food you eat during the first trimester of your pregnancy must be really healthy. Include fresh leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes, fish and seafood, dairy items like yoghurt, chickpeas, lentils, eggs etc. in your diet and stay away from processed food items. Also, keep yourself hydrated all through the day.
• Exercise: While you are advised to rest during your first trimester, light exercising is also important. However, you must consult your gynaecologist before you start exercising.

Don’t:

• Stress: Make sure that you don’t indulge in things that will make you stressed. It is also advised by the doctors of the maternity hospital in India to keep away from work for some time.
• Weight: Maintaining an optimum weight is necessary during the first trimester. Consult one of the top gynaecologists in Hyderabad to know more about the amount of weight you need to gain and how you can gain it.
• Travel: While local travel for up to 36 weeks is considered okay during pregnancy, it is important to keep away from exhaustive travelling. Also, it’s always good to consult your doctor if planning a long trip.
• Alcohol: Keep away from alcohol as it’s highly unsafe for the baby and may negatively affect his brain, especially during the first trimester.
• Recreational Drugs: Do not take recreational drugs during your first trimester of pregnancy as they can cause birth defects and even increase the possibility of a miscarriage.
• Smoking: The toxins you inhale from smoking a cigarette are extremely dangerous for your baby. They pass through your bloodstream and reach your baby’s body and can even cause birth defects besides respiratory illnesses. Hence, it is advisable to not smoke during the first trimester of your pregnancy.
• Foods to avoid: Avoid foods like soft cheese, unpasteurised dairy and processed food items during the first trimester of your pregnancy.

Tips for dealing with common discomforts of Pregnancy

Pregnancy comes with its own set of discomforts, but there are various strategies to help alleviate them. It's important to note that every pregnancy is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult with your healthcare provider before trying new remedies. Here are some general tips for dealing with common discomforts of pregnancy:

• Morning Sickness:
  • Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.
  • Stay hydrated by sipping water or ginger tea.
  • Keep crackers or dry toast by your bedside to nibble on before getting up.
• Fatigue:
  • Ensure you get enough rest and sleep.
  • Take short naps during the day, if possible.
  • Delegate tasks and prioritize your responsibilities.
• Back Pain:
  • Practice good posture and avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
  • Use a supportive pillow when sleeping, and consider a maternity support belt.
  • Gentle exercises like prenatal yoga or swimming may help strengthen your back muscles.
• Swelling:
  • Elevate your legs whenever possible.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting shoes.
  • Reduce salt intake to help minimize fluid retention.
• Heartburn:
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
  • Avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods.
  • Sit up straight after meals and consider using extra pillows when sleeping.
• Constipation:
  • Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Regular, gentle exercise can help with bowel regularity.
• Frequent Urination:
  • Limit caffeine intake.
  • Empty your bladder completely when you go to the bathroom.
  • Kegel exercises may help strengthen pelvic muscles and control bladder function.
• Leg Cramps:
  • Stretch your legs before bedtime.
  • Stay hydrated and make sure you are getting enough calcium and magnesium.
  • Flex your foot and massage the calf if a cramp occurs.
• Shortness of Breath:
  • Sit up straight and avoid slouching.
  • Practice deep breathing exercises.
  • Don't push yourself too hard during physical activities.
• Mood Swings:
  • Communicate openly with your partner and support system.
  • Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
  • Consider talking to a mental health professional if needed.

Remember, experiences can vary between individuals, and if you have concerns or experience severe symptoms, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance and support. Make your first trimester happy and healthy by following the aforementioned tips!

FAQ's

1. What is the first trimester of pregnancy?

The first trimester is the initial phase of pregnancy, encompassing the first three months or roughly weeks 1 to 12 after conception. During this period, the embryo develops rapidly, major organs begin to form, and significant changes occur in the pregnant lady’s body.

2. What happens to my body in the first trimester?

In the first trimester, your body undergoes various changes. Some common experiences include:

• Nausea and morning sickness: Many women experience nausea, sometimes accompanied by vomiting, particularly during the early part of this trimester.
• Fatigue: Increased levels of progesterone can cause fatigue and feelings of exhaustion.
• Breast changes: Breasts may become tender, swollen, or sensitive due to hormonal changes.
• Frequent urination: The growing uterus can exert pressure on the bladder, leading to increased urination.
• Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations can cause mood changes, including feelings of anxiety or emotional sensitivity.

3. How long is the first trimester?

   The first trimester typically lasts for about 12 weeks or three months from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) until the end of week 12.

4. What can I expect in my first trimester?

    During the first trimester, you can expect several things, including:

• Confirmation of pregnancy through a positive home pregnancy test or a visit to your healthcare provider.
• Early prenatal care and appointments to monitor the progress of your pregnancy.
• Development of the baby's major organs and body structures.
• Hormonal changes leading to various physical and emotional symptoms like morning sickness, fatigue, and mood swings.
• A growing belly and weight gain may start to become noticeable towards the end of the first trimester.