Guide to Pregnancy's Three Trimesters

ichhori team
Guide to Pregnancy’s Three Trimesters

Guide to Pregnancy’s Three Trimesters

Pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks (about 10 months), counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. A full‑term pregnancy is between 37 and 42 weeks, with early‑term (37–38 wk), full‑term (39–40 wk), late‑term (40–41 wk), and post‑term (42+ wk) classifications :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

The First Trimester (Weeks 1–13)

  • Begins at last period and ends at week 13. Pregnancy tests can detect hCG around week 4–6 :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
  • Initial prenatal visit (7–8 wk): ultrasound, due‑date estimation, genetic and routine blood/urine tests :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
  • Embryo becomes foetus by week 8; development of major organs, brain, facial features, muscles, bones :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
  • By end, foetus ~3–4 inches, 0.5–1 oz; miscarriage risk decreases to 1–5% :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
  • Common symptoms: nausea, fatigue, sore breasts, frequent urination, mood shifts :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

The Second Trimester (Weeks 14–26)

  • Organ maturation continues; placenta and umbilical cord fully form :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
  • Fetal movements and hearing begin; foetus ~13–16 inches, 2–3 lb by end :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
  • Screenings include glucose tolerance and Rh factor; anatomy ultrasound monitors growth :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
  • Symptoms often ease: increased energy, appetite; may see backache, heartburn, varicose veins, skin changes :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

The Third Trimester (Weeks 27–40+)

  • Fetal growth and organ maturation; by week 28 viability is ~80–90% :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
  • Foetus gains significant weight (6–9 lb), lengthens to 19–21 inches; head engages before birth :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
  • Frequent prenatal visits; testing for preeclampsia and final ultrasounds; cervix monitored after 38 weeks :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
  • Common discomforts: back pain, swelling, shortness of breath, hemorrhoids, heartburn, sleep issues; Braxton Hicks contractions :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
  • Discuss birth plan and induction options as due date nears :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.

Why It Matters

  • Understanding trimesters helps anticipate fetal development and maternal changes.
  • Scheduled care and screenings support healthy progress and timely problem detection.

Summary: Pregnancy spans three trimesters—each ~12–14 weeks—each marked by unique developmental milestones and maternal symptoms. Timely prenatal care ensures optimal outcomes.

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