What to Expect in the First Trimester

The first trimester covers roughly the first three months of pregnancy, up to around week 13. From the outside very little shows, yet a lot is happening inside the body. Many people feel a mix of excitement, worry and plain tiredness during these weeks, sometimes all in the same afternoon.

Every pregnancy is different, so treat this as a general picture rather than a checklist. Your midwife, doctor or pharmacist is the right person for questions about your own situation.

Changes you might notice

Some people have many early symptoms, others hardly any. Both can be normal. Commonly reported changes include:

• Tiredness: often deep and unexpected, especially in the afternoon or evening.
• Nausea: sometimes called morning sickness, though it can happen at any time of day.
• Tender breasts: fuller, sore or more sensitive than usual.
• Needing the toilet more often: even before the bump appears.
• Mood swings: feeling tearful, irritable or elated with little warning.
• Food changes: new cravings, sudden dislikes or a stronger sense of smell.

If nausea is so severe that you cannot keep food or fluids down, contact your midwife or doctor promptly. Persistent vomiting needs medical attention and should not simply be endured.

Early appointments

Once you know you are pregnant, it is a good idea to contact your doctor or local maternity service to arrange care. The first visits usually involve questions about your health and history, some routine checks and a chance to talk about how you are feeling. You may be offered screening tests and scans; ask what each one is for, and remember you are always free to ask for more time to decide.

Bring a list of questions. It is easy to forget them once you are in the room.

Everyday habits worth discussing

These topics come up for almost everyone in early pregnancy. General advice exists for each, but your own care team can tailor it to you.

Looking after yourself day to day

• Rest when you can. Early tiredness is real, not laziness.
• Small, frequent snacks may sit better than large meals if you feel queasy.
• Keep sipping water through the day.
• Gentle movement, such as walking, can help with energy and mood.
• Write down how you feel. Our article on why a pregnancy journal can be a lovely keepsake has ideas for getting started.

Emotions in the first weeks

Feeling ambivalent, anxious or overwhelmed early in pregnancy is common, even when the pregnancy is very much wanted. Talk with your partner, a trusted friend or your midwife. If low mood or anxiety is affecting your daily life, mention it at your next appointment, or sooner if it feels urgent. Emotional health is part of antenatal care, not an extra.

Symptoms to report without delay

Contact your midwife, maternity unit or doctor promptly if you notice:

1. vaginal bleeding, even if it is light;
2. pain or cramping in your lower abdomen, particularly on one side;
3. a high temperature or feeling very unwell;
4. pain or burning when passing urine;
5. vomiting that stops you keeping fluids down.

For severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or any situation that feels like an emergency, call your local emergency number.

Telling other people

There is no correct moment to share your news. Some people tell close family straight away, others wait until after the first scan. Do what feels right for you. Whenever you choose, it can help to have one or two people you can lean on during these early weeks.