Finding out you’re pregnant is an exciting, life-changing moment – but let’s be real, the first trimester can be a wild ride! Between exhaustion, nausea, and emotions running high, your body is already working overtime to grow a tiny human. Whether you just saw that positive test or you’re a few weeks in, here’s a breakdown of the most common first-trimester symptoms – so you know what’s normal and when to call your doctor.
At AskHer.com, we know that pregnancy is just the beginning of your motherhood journey. That’s why we created our Breastfeeding Series, a collection of expert-led courses covering everything from how to master the first latch to boosting milk supply and breastfeeding after maternity leave. If you’re curious, you can even watch a free lesson from our Nailing Breastfeeding course here.
Now, let’s dive into what to expect in the first trimester!
Every pregnancy is different, but these are some of the most common early pregnancy symptoms you might experience:
Growing a baby takes a ton of energy – no wonder you feel exhausted 🙂 Your body is producing more progesterone, which helps sustain your pregnancy but can also make you feel like you could nap for days.
💡 What Helps? Try to rest when you can, stay hydrated, and keep snacks on hand to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Nausea and vomiting can hit at any time of the day (thanks, hormones). For many women, it peaks around weeks 6-9 and eases by the second trimester.
💡 What Helps? Eat small, frequent meals, avoid strong smells, and try ginger tea or vitamin B6 supplements (always check with your doctor first).
Tender, swollen breasts are often one of the first pregnancy symptoms. This happens because of increased hormones and blood flow preparing your body for breastfeeding.
💡 What Helps? A supportive, wireless bra and warm compresses can help ease discomfort.
Find yourself running to the bathroom more often? That’s because your kidneys are working harder to process extra fluids, and your growing uterus is already putting pressure on your bladder.
💡 What Helps? Stay hydrated, but cut back on fluids before bed to avoid nighttime bathroom trips.
Suddenly obsessed with pickles? Can’t stand the smell of coffee? Your pregnancy cravings (and aversions) are caused by hormonal shifts affecting your sense of taste and smell.
💡 What Helps? Listen to your body, eat a balanced diet, and don’t stress if some foods are off-limits for now.
One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying over a puppy video – totally normal! Pregnancy hormones (hello, estrogen and progesterone) can make emotions run high.
💡 What Helps? Get plenty of sleep, move your body (gentle walks help!), and talk to a supportive friend or partner.
Slowed digestion due to pregnancy hormones can cause bloating and constipation, making you feel uncomfortably full.
💡 What Helps? Drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods, and try gentle movement like prenatal yoga.
Always trust your instincts – if something feels off, don’t hesitate to check in with your healthcare provider.
Your body is doing something incredible, and taking care of yourself is just as important as preparing for your baby. If you’re already thinking ahead to breastfeeding, we’ve got you covered!
At AskHer.com, we offer expert-led courses designed specifically for women, including our Breastfeeding Series, which covers everything from first-latch basics to weaning and pumping at work.
👉 Watch a free lesson from our Nailing Breastfeeding course HERE.
Enjoy the journey – morning sickness, cravings, and all! 💕
The AskHer team
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