expecting you

What to Expect in the First Trimester

Published on July 14, 2025

The first trimester lasts from week 1 to week 12. It can feel exciting, confusing, and exhausting — all at once.

This is when your baby begins developing fast. And your body starts changing even faster.

Common First Trimester Symptoms

Every pregnancy is different. But here are some symptoms people often notice early on:

  • Nausea or vomiting (often called morning sickness, but it can happen anytime)
  • Sore breasts
  • Fatigue — sometimes extreme
  • Mild cramping or spotting
  • Mood swings — hormones can hit hard
  • Frequent peeing
  • Food cravings or aversions

Not everyone feels all of these. Some feel barely anything. That’s okay.

First Doctor Appointments

Most people have their first prenatal visit around week 8. At that visit, your provider might:

  • Confirm the pregnancy with a urine or blood test
  • Do an ultrasound to check for a heartbeat
  • Ask about your health and family history
  • Talk through diet, vitamins, and next steps

You may also get bloodwork and tests for things like iron levels, thyroid, and immunity.

How the Baby Is Growing

  • Week 4–5: The embryo implants and starts forming organs
  • Week 6–7: A heartbeat may be seen by ultrasound
  • Week 8–10: Fingers, toes, eyelids begin forming
  • Week 12: Most major organs are in place

Even if you can't feel anything yet, there's a lot happening inside.

Emotional Changes

The first trimester can feel intense emotionally. You might feel excited one minute and overwhelmed the next.

That’s normal.

Hormone shifts, fatigue, and uncertainty all play a role. You might cry easily or feel anxious for no clear reason.

If your mood feels really off, let your provider know. You don’t have to go through it alone.

Tips That Might Help

  • Eat small snacks if you’re nauseous
  • Nap if you’re exhausted (seriously, rest is productive)
  • Take a prenatal vitamin daily (with food if it upsets your stomach)
  • Don’t worry if you can’t eat perfectly — just do your best
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and unpasteurized foods

Support from Partners or Friends

If you’re supporting someone pregnant, here’s how to help:

  • Be patient with mood changes or exhaustion
  • Take on extra chores without being asked
  • Show up to appointments if invited
  • Ask how they’re feeling — and really listen

Even small things can make a big difference.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your provider if you notice:

  • Heavy bleeding (soaking a pad in an hour)
  • Sharp or severe pain
  • Fever over 100.4°F
  • Dizziness or fainting

Better to ask than worry.

Pregnancy isn’t always glowing. The first trimester can be rough. But you're not alone — and you’re already doing a lot.