Stages of Pregnancy

It can be quite interesting to watch the changes that happen to your body when you are pregnant. To get an overview of the changes you can expect in the coming months, read Pregnancy Stages. For a more in-depth look at the three stages, take a look at First Trimester, Second Trimester and Third Trimester.

These sections will give you valuable information about what exactly is happening to your body. You will also find some useful strategies and tips to help you cope with the physical demands of being pregnant.

While it's easy to see how your body is changing, it's not as easy to see what's going on with your baby. The Pregnancy Calendar has detailed descriptions of what is going on with your little one. You can also take a look at your baby's development week by week. Check out Baby's Due Date for an insider's look at how your due date is calculated.

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Congratulations on your pregnancy! Now that you know you're pregnant, you'll definitely be interested in finding out what is happening to your body through these stages of pregnancy. Every woman has heard about the three trimesters of pregnancy, but not everyone knows exactly what occurs during those trimesters.

During the first trimester, you can expect a host of pregnancy symptoms including breast changes, tiredness, nausea and vomiting, frequent urination and many more. At the end of the first trimester, your uterus will have grown into the size of a grapefruit, while the baby inside is the size of a cherry. The baby will grow from being a mass of cells to having a heartbeat, reflexes and the ability to move it's tiny limbs! Now is the time to start prenatal care and a nutritious, healthy diet. Regular exercise will keep you and your baby safe and ready for a healthier birth.

Throughout the second trimester, you'll grow more scatterbrained and your belly will start to show the baby growing inside you. You'll experience pregnancy discomforts such as sleeping problems and notice Braxton Hicks contractions. During the second trimester, your baby will grow hair all over its body and the senses will begin to develop. At the end of the second trimester, your baby will measure about 10 inches (25 cm) and will frequently practice their kicking movements.

The third trimester brings many changes to your body; you will need to urinate frequently and your belly looks like it's ready to explode. Now is the time to start taking childbirth and breastfeeding classes. The finishing touches are being placed on your baby, and the two of you are looking forward to delivery day! Don't forget to include your partner and prepare him for the hefty responsibility of fatherhood!