Trimester 1 vs. Trimester 3: What Changes and Dos and Don'ts

Pregnancy is a phase of mixed emotions for every mother. As you step into motherhood, you are filled with joy, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions. You are bound to feel worried about what is allowed or what you must avoid! Well, I've got your back, momma. Here's a list of all the dos and don'ts for trimester 1 and 3.

Pregnancy is a phase where your body undergoes a lot of changes. You might experience symptoms that are common or are entirely out of the blue. About 90% of women experience pregnancy-related symptoms within 8 weeks from their last period. Know one thing for sure, every pregnancy is different, and every momma is different.

Trimester 1

The first trimester lasts from week 1 to week 12 of your pregnancy. Your partner's sperm has fertilized your egg. You have successfully conceived, and your body is making space for your little one to grow.

Changes

• You start feeling very tired and exhausted.
• You want to sleep all the time.
• You experience morning sickness.
• Your breasts feel sore and tender. They are heavier and larger now.
• You may experience mood swings.
• Your heartbeat and breathing rate increase.

Dos

• Eat your prenatal vitamins like folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D. All these are essential for your baby's growth.
• Eat healthy, nutrient-dense food. It will ensure nourishment of the developing fetus and nutrition for you as a new mother.
• Choose your gynecologist wisely. Do all your research and be well-prepared. Get all your doubts cleared and apprehensions sorted.

Don'ts

• No alcohol and no drugs. If you have been using drugs or consuming alcohol before, stop now.
• Quit smoking. Active and passive smoking can be fatal for your baby's health.
• Cut caffeine by reducing your daily intake of tea/coffee.

Trimester 3

Trimester 3 marks the last phase of your pregnancy. It starts from week 28 and goes up to week 40. Your baby is getting bigger, and the room in your uterus is getting smaller. You can now feel the pressure on your organs.

Changes

• You are perpetually tired.
• You are annoyed by the discomfort your belly is causing.
• You struggle with back pain.
• You complain of aches and pains.
• You find it difficult to control your urge to pee.
• Your baby is growing up, which adds pressure on your lungs, and you find it hard to breathe.
• You are sleepy all the time due to a lack of proper night's sleep.
• You experience Braxton Hicks contractions. Do not confuse this with labor pain.

Dos

• Join a new mom's only birth club to ensure you have company during labor. Birth clubs are the best support to prepare for labor. You get to learn a lot from them.
• Pack and prepare your bags for the due day. You can deliver any time, and you must be ready. Pack all your essentials in your hospital bag.
• Nesting is very common in every new mom. Make your home ready for your little one's arrival.

Don'ts

• Avoid exertion. Do not run or overwork yourself. Be it exercise, housework, or job stress - keep all of it at bay.
• Avoid dehydration. It is essential to keep yourself hydrated by drinking soups and juices and eating fruits.
• Avoid stress throughout your pregnancy. It is essential to be stress-free for a healthy pregnancy.

Now that you know the changes that occur during your pregnancy, along with the dos and don'ts, focus on being happy and healthy. Remember, a happy mother always gives birth to a happy baby—all the best on your journey to motherhood.