In this Article

• Introduction
• What is the first trimester (week 1-week 12)?
• What is the second trimester (week 13-week 28)?
• What is the third trimester (week 29-week 40)?
• How will my baby develop week by week?
• What are the changes that happen to a woman's body during her 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy?
• Body aches
• Breast changes
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Fatigue, sleep problems
• Heartburn and indigestion
• Hemorrhoids
• Itching
• Leg cramps
• Morning sickness
• Nasal problems
• Numb or tingling hands
• Stretch marks, skin changes
• Swelling
• Urinary frequency and leaking
• Varicose veins
• Stages of Pregnancy - Slideshow
• Patient Discussions: Pregnancy - Describe Your Experience
• Pregnancy Glossary
• Pregnancy Index

Constipation

During pregnancy, you might have:

Many pregnant women complain of constipation. Signs of constipation include having hard, dry stools; fewer than three bowel movements per week; and painful bowel movements.

Higher levels of hormones due to pregnancy slow down digestion and relax muscles in the bowels leaving many women constipated. Plus, the pressure of the expanding uterus on the bowels can contribute to constipation.

What might help:

• Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily.
  
  
• Don't drink caffeine.
  
  
• Eat fiber-rich foods, such as fresh or dried fruit, raw vegetables, and whole-grain cereals and breads.
  
  
• Try mild physical activity

Dizziness

During pregnancy, you might have:

Many pregnant women complain of dizziness and lightheadedness throughout their pregnancies. Fainting is rare but does happen even in some healthy pregnant women. There are many reasons for these symptoms. The growth of more blood vessels in early pregnancy, the pressure of the expanding uterus on blood vessels, and the body's increased need for food all can make a pregnant woman feel lightheaded and dizzy.

What might help:

• Stand up slowly.
  
  
• Avoid standing for too long.
  
  
• Don't skip meals.
  
  
• Lie on your left side.
  
  
• Wear loose clothing.

Call the doctor if:

You feel faint and have vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain.

Pregnancy - Describe Your Experience

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