• First trimester of pregnancy is the time between conception and the first 12 weeks of pregnancy
• First trimester symptoms vary from woman to woman
• It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the 1st trimester and while trying to conceive
• You should consult your obstetrician to understand your pregnancy symptoms

Your pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks. It is divided into three phases – 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester. 

The time between 1-12 weeks marks the first trimester of pregnancy. It is the earliest phase of pregnancy. It starts from the first day of your last period and lasts till the last day of your 12th week. 

During the first trimester of pregnancy, your body undergoes rapid changes and prepares itself to host the growing baby. Every woman experiences first trimester symptoms differently. 

Here are some common early pregnancy symptoms you may expect during the first trimester of pregnancy: 

• Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)
• Breast tenderness
• Constipation 
• Mood changes 
• Weight gain or weight loss 
• Vaginal discharge 
• Increased urination 
• Heartburn 
• Fatigue 
• Headache 
• Food aversions

Your baby undergoes rapid development during the 1st trimester pregnancy. It quickly changes from a fertilised egg into a developing fetus. 

You can expect the following fetal developments to take place during the 1st trimester: 

• Your baby’s nervous system begins to develop 
• Your baby’s heart develops and begins beating 
• Your baby develops kidneys and intestine 
• A soft skeleton begins to take form 
• Most of the organs such as arms, legs, fingers and toes take shape
• By the end of the 1st trimester, your baby begins to grow fingernails 
• Your baby will begin to develop a sense of taste and touch 
• Eyelids begin to form

The first trimester of pregnancy is significant for, both the mother and her baby. It is important to practice caution and take care of yourself during this time. 

Here is a checklist of first trimester dos and don’ts:

• Start taking prenatal vitamins 
• Consult your obstetrician for a prenatal visit 
• Learn about prenatal tests and scans 
• Eat a nutrition-rich diet 
• Exercise regularly 
• Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking 
• Drink plenty of water 
• Avoid strenuous activities 
• Do not eat raw or uncooked foods