What are the stages of pregnancy?
If you’re pregnant for the first time, you probably have lots of questions about what to expect. Pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks and is grouped into three stages, or trimesters. Here’s what you can expect during each trimester of pregnancy:
First trimester
The first trimester takes place during weeks 1-12, starting from the first day of your last menstrual period. During this time, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Tiredness
- Mood swings
- Tender, swollen breasts
- Nausea (morning sickness)
- Frequent urination
- Food cravings
Many of the uncomfortable symptoms lessen or disappear as your pregnancy continues.
Second trimester
The second trimester occurs between weeks 13-28. For most women, this trimester is easier than the first, but you may still experience body aches, stretch marks on your expanding abdomen, and other changes to your body.
During the second trimester, you can learn your baby’s sex with an in-office ultrasound at Lifeboat Medical Associates. Before this trimester is over, you begin to feel your baby move and kick.
Third trimester
Weeks 29-40 are the final stretch of your pregnancy. During this time, your baby continues to grow in size. This typically causes discomfort due to increased pressure on your internal organs. As the due date approaches, your baby drops lower in your abdomen.
Why should I see an obstetrician?
Dr. O’Heron has specialized training in high-risk obstetrics and provides expert care in case of unexpected emergencies. You may have a high-risk pregnancy if one or more of the following conditions applies to you:
- Being over age 35
- Having twins or multiple births
- Having a chronic health problem, such as diabetes or hypertension
- Having a history of miscarriage, preterm labor, or cesarean delivery
- Engaging in lifestyle choices such as smoking or drinking
Even if you’re in good health and have a low-risk pregnancy, it’s beneficial to have a skilled obstetric surgeon such as Dr. O’Heron on your birth team in case complications arise.
What should I expect at prenatal care appointments?
Dr. O’Heron and the team at Lifeboat Medical Associates monitor your health and your baby’s development throughout pregnancy during routine prenatal checkups. They provide individualized care tailored to your specific needs.
Depending on your unique situation, prenatal care appointments may include:
- Blood tests
- Physical exams
- In-office ultrasound imaging tests
- Advice on proper nutrition and exercise
- Counseling on what to expect during labor and delivery
For more information on prenatal care, please click here.
For the highest-quality medical care before, during, and after your pregnancy, call or book an appointment online.
