From the moment of conception, your body begins working around the clock to create a new life. It’s an exciting time that also comes with questions, surprises, and sometimes, a little uncertainty.
Serving Coral Springs, Florida, and the surrounding areas, board-certified gynecologist and obstetrician Dr. Alan B. Patterson combines a wealth of experience with a patient-centered approach to help women navigate all phases of their reproductive health, including pregnancy and delivery.
Whether you just found out you’re pregnant or you’re still trying to conceive, check out our quick guide with must-know tips and information on what to expect during your first trimester.
During the first trimester, your baby grows rapidly, transforming from a tiny group of cells into a fully formed fetus by the end of week 12. Their heartbeat begins as early as six weeks, and by the end of the first trimester, they’ve developed tiny fingers, toes, and some facial features.
You’ll also notice changes in your body as it adapts to pregnancy. Hormonal surges tend to lead to nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and heightened emotions. While these symptoms can vary in intensity, they’re all part of your body’s effort to support your growing baby. Knowing what to expect can help you manage these changes with care.
Our patients often mention helpful items they wish they’d picked up during the first trimester. Here are some of the top essentials add to your routine:
These items can make a big difference in supporting a smoother first trimester.
The hormonal changes during your first trimester can bring on various symptoms, the most common of which is nausea, or morning sickness — although it can strike at any time of day. To manage it, try eating small, frequent meals and sticking to plain, easy-to-digest foods and drinks like crackers, toast, ginger tea, and lemon water. For severe cases, we may recommend safe medications.
Fatigue is also typical during early pregnancy, as your body works overtime to support your growing baby. Prioritize rest when you need it, but balance your extra downtime with gentle exercise like walking or prenatal yoga to boost your energy and mood.
You can expect to have your first prenatal visit scheduled between weeks six and eight, setting the stage for your pregnancy care. At this appointment, our team confirms your pregnancy, establishes your due date, and reviews your overall health.
Expect an ultrasound to check your baby’s development and heartbeat, as well as blood work to assess your health and screen for any potential issues. We also discuss recommended lifestyle changes, including important dietary and exercise guidelines.
You can expect to come in and see us for follow-up appointments every four weeks or sooner during the first trimester to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Dr. Patterson and the rest of our team strive to provide compassionate support for women during all phases of pregnancy and delivery. You can count on us to provide expert guidance and create an individualized care plan that meets your personal pregnancy needs.
Whether you’re pregnant or actively trying to conceive, our award-winning team at Alan B. Patterson, MD, can guide you through a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Call or click online to schedule a visit at our Coral Springs, Florida, office today.
