The first trimester is considered to be the first period that last 12 weeks of gestation or 14 weeks from the first of the last normal menstrual period. The symptoms that occur during this period affect only the mothers and consist of dreaded morning sickness that can occur during the day as well and sore and enlarged breasts. During this period several changes may occur. The future mothers may notice blue lines under the skin of their breasts and abdomen or waistline expansions. Other regular symptoms that occur in most women are nausea or even vomiting, food aversions and cravings, tender breasts, constipation, headaches or dizziness.
If the future mother gives up alcohol, smoking or dangerous drugs it may be said that it was a healthy trimester. The child needs a normal development especially in this period because inside the woman's body the major organs and systems of the fetus are forming. In this first trimester the most important changes occur in both mother's and child's body. By the end of this trimester the embryo is transformed into a fetus that is measuring, on average, three to four inches.
The second stage or the second trimester lasts until the end of month seven and it is considered as being the easiest stage of pregnancy. During this stage most women get to recover their lost energy.
Physical changes occur in this second stage. Both mother and fetus continue to grow and the mother's abdomen begins to swell. At the end of this faze the uterus is near the rib cage. The skin on and around the abdomen stretches and marks may be seen.
Even if in many cases this is the easiest stage of pregnancy for some women this stage may bring nasal congestions or occasional nose bleeds. It may also mean whitish vaginal discharge, constipation, an increased appetite or cramps. The fetus continues to grow and organs such as the heart or kidneys develop. The eyebrows, fingernails and even hair begin to form. During this period the fetus moves or even kicks.
The last trimester means the preparation for delivery. The fetus grows in weight and size and his internal organs are forming a body system. This period is very uncomfortable for mother because labor contractions occur more and more often announcing the delivery.
