Pregnancy

Pregnancy is measured in weeks  - it is calculated as 40 weeks following the date of your last period, even though you may not become pregnant until 3 weeks after this date.

Month 1 (0-4/40)

At this point in time it is unlikely you know you are pregnant. Mothers may experience premenstrual type symptoms. The fertilized egg begins to organise itself into a ball of cells called an embryo and by 4 weeks this is implanted into the uterus (womb) wall.

As you may not know you are pregnant during this critical time in your childs development it is important to take folic acid and continue to be health conscious if you have started trying for a baby.

Month 2 (5-8/40)

This is the month you are likely to confirm your pregnancy. It is a very exciting time and you may start to notice some early changes in your body. Your breasts are often tender and you may feel tired and have spells of nausea. Your ante-natal appointments will begin with your Doctor or Midwife. At 6 weeks your baby will have developed its heart which will be visible at your first scan at 8 weeks which will also confirm your expected delivery date.

At 8 weeks an embryo is about 1cm long and has a head, arms, legs and tail. Fingers have started to develop along with the kidney, brain and eye organs. It is normal to feel quite sick at this point in your pregnancy. If you  do feel very unwell and are unable to eat and drink it is important to make sure that you consult your doctor.

Month 3 (9-13/40)

Your embryo has now grown into a fetus. The umbilical cord has formed and your placenta is now your baby’s life line. Your fetus can move its arms and legs and its sex organs are beginning to grow.

At the end of the first trimester (3 month stage) you should begin to feel a bit better and the tiredness and nausea should become a thing of the past. Folic acid tablets can usually be stopped. You will be enjoying your pregnancy more and more from now on.

© The Westover

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