The first trimester carries the highest risk of miscarriage. During the second trimester, the development of the baby can be more easily monitored and diagnosed. From the beginning of the third trimester the baby is able to survive, with or without medical help, outside of the womb. First Trimester Second Trimester Third Trimester Pregnancy Stages and Symptoms - the First Trimester There are various symptoms associated with the weeks during the first trimester and unfortunately approximately 70% of all pregnant women suffer from morning sickness or feelings of nausea at this time. Other symptoms during the first trimester include fatigue, swollen breasts, darkening of areolas (the skin around your nipples), headache, backache and frequent urination. Cravings for unusual food can also occur during the early stages. The first trimester carries the highest risk of miscarriage. Pregnancy Stages and Symptoms - the Second Trimester During the second trimester, the development of the baby can be more easily monitored and diagnosed. Most pregnant women feel more energized during the second trimester and start to put on weight as the symptoms of morning sickness subside and eventually fade away. Other symptoms of the second trimester include heartburn, backache, constipation, piles, leg cramps and Braxton Hicks contractions. The woman's belly is usually very upright during this stage of pregnancy. Weight gain during the second trimester - expect weight gain of about 4lbs per week until you give birth. Pregnancy Stages and Symptoms - the Third Trimester From the beginning of the third trimester the baby is able to survive, with or without medical help, outside of the womb. The final weight gain takes place during the third trimester. It is the most weight gain throughout maternity period. The baby grows the most rapidly during the third trimester stage and can gain up to 28g per day. The weight gain shows in the size of your belly! The shape of your belly changes as the belly drops due to the baby turning in a downward position ready for birth. Your belly will drop down quite low and a pregnant woman is able to lift her belly up and down! Symptoms during the third trimester include the navel sometimes becoming convex and "popping" out due to the expanding abdomen. Other symptoms include weak bladder control, heartburn and back-ache. Pregnancy Stages The contents of this section provides facts, definitions and helpful information for pregnant women. The start, the various signs and symptoms and development phases. - Early stages
- Development phases first, second and third trimester
- Fetal development
- Week by week changes
- Helpful Information
- Trimesters and Symptoms
The Pregnancy Stages is for educational purposes Discover exactly how your body is adapting and how your baby is growing and developing via the information found on this page have been of help. The information is for educational purposes only and for specific medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment please consult your doctor. Chinese Pregnancy Calendar Ovulation Calendar Pregnancy Week by Week |