Your
body will experience so many changes
during pregnancy–both physically
and emotionally. Knowing what these
changes are and what to expect will
help eliminate some of the anxiety
you may feel during these nine months.
It's certainly exciting to "watch"
your baby grow as you progress through
your pregnancy. And it's just as important
to know what these changes mean and
to track the changes that are happening
with your baby and inside your own
body.
There
are three stages of pregnancy called
trimesters:
First Trimester1 - 13 weeks The
first trimester of pregnancy lasts
for three and a half months or 13
weeks. During this stage of pregnancy
you may experience the dreaded morning
sickness (which can occur anytime
during the day and sore and enlarged
breasts. During this stage it's vital
that you get enough vitamins, minerals
and nutrients as they are essential
for growth and development. It's a
good idea to consult with your health
care provider to determine what is
best for you.
Nutrition and Exercise
2200
calories/day
Well
balanced, healthy diets with
adequate fiber promotes baby’s
growth and mother’s
energy and comfort
Take prenatal vitamins as
prescribed
Avoid the use of alcohol and
tobacco
Small, more frequent meals
may help a nauseous woman
get good nutrition
Many women can continue to
exercise regularly.
Daily
exercise that suits your level
of fitness can help decrease
fatigue and stress
Discuss your exercise habits
with your health care provider
Avoid overheating and maintain
good hydration during exercise
Second Trimester14 - 27 weeks This
second stage of pregnancy lasts until
the end of the seventh month and is
many times the easiest stage of pregnancy
as most women will start to regain
some of their energy. During this
stage your stomach will begin to expand
and those around you will start to
notice that you are pregnant. At this
time any feelings of morning sickness
should dissipate, although some women
may continue to experience it (usually
to a lesser extent). At this point
you may also feel your baby beginning
to kick and move. If you wish, you
can find out whether you are having
a girl or boy.
Nutrition and Exercise
2500
calories/day
Continue to maintain a well
balanced diet with plenty
of fiber
Continue to take prenatal
vitamins if prescribed
Continue to avoid the use
of alcohol and tobacco
Modify your exercise regimen
if needed to protect weight
bearing joints, back and abdominal
muscles
Take care with lifting and
carrying
Third
Trimester28
- 42 weeks As
you enter into the final trimester
of your pregnancy you may notice that
you feel more sensitive, emotional
and anxious. Be rest assured, these
feelings are very natural. It's common
to begin worrying about about what
kind of mother you are going to be.
Many times, the increased size and
weight of your baby can cause increased
pain (often in your back), making
you feel more uncomfortable and anxious.
Nutrition and Exercise
2500
calories/day
You may need to resume small
frequent feedings to prevent
heartburn
Continue prenatal vitamins
as prescribed
Continue to avoid the use
of alcohol and tobacco
Adequate hydration and avoiding
overheating are important
to protect the baby and you
Further modify your exercise
regimen as needed to protect
muscles and joints
Shortness of breath is common
on exertion-You may need to
reduce the intensity of your
exercise regimen if you are
becoming too winded
Stretch and tone to prepare
for childbirth
www.GloriasPregnancyInfo.com
| Stages
of Pregnancy
The
first trimester of pregnancy lasts
for three and a half months or 13
weeks. During this stage of pregnancy
you may experience the dreaded morning
sickness (which can occur anytime
during the day and sore and enlarged
breasts. During this stage it's vital
that you get enough vitamins, minerals
and nutrients as they are essential
for growth and development. It's a
good idea to consult with your health
care provider to determine what is
best for you.
This
second stage of pregnancy lasts until
the end of the seventh month and is
many times the easiest stage of pregnancy
as most women will start to regain
some of their energy. During this
stage your stomach will begin to expand
and those around you will start to
notice that you are pregnant. At this
time any feelings of morning sickness
should dissipate, although some women
may continue to experience it (usually
to a lesser extent). At this point
you may also feel your baby beginning
to kick and move. If you wish, you
can find out whether you are having
a girl or boy.
As
you enter into the final trimester
of your pregnancy you may notice that
you feel more sensitive, emotional
and anxious. Be rest assured, these
feelings are very natural. It's common
to begin worrying about about what
kind of mother you are going to be.
Many times, the increased size and
weight of your baby can cause increased
pain (often in your back), making
you feel more uncomfortable and anxious.