The First Trimester

The entire span of pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each trimester comprising 3 months. The first trimester passes relatively quicker than the other two trimesters. It's not until the second month that we are aware of the pregnancy. So, before we actually realize that we are pregnant, the first trimester would have already come to an end. But this is the period in which you physically and emotionally prepare for the rest that is yet to come. Amenorrhea that you have been undergoing for the past 3 months might result in severe nausea and dislike for some types of food, and a craving for other types of food that you had never liked in your life time. For instance, I personally am not fond of the food that is prepared for srardham as it is mostly bland; ironically, I started loving the same food during pregnancy!! Morning sickness, irritability and drowsiness are other obvious symptoms in the first trimester. You also tend to lose some body weight at this time because of vomitings, and as your energy & nutrients are diverted to the developing foetus. A greater risk of miscarriage is said to prevail in this period; so, be positive and take very good care of yourself during this period. But do not restrict yourself from your daily activities. As for the sleeping position, you can lie down flat on your back or turn sideways in this trimester, as your bump would not have developed yet. Never sleep on your tummy. However, you can practice turning and sleeping on your left side as this is advised in the later months to come. Intercourse is also to be avoided.