What are the symptoms in different stages of pregnancy?

First Trimester (0-12 weeks)

Weeks 1-4

* Implantation bleeding: Light spotting or bleeding that occurs when the fertilized egg implants into the uterine wall.

* Breast tenderness: Breasts may become swollen, tender, and tingly.

* Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and fatigue.

* Nausea and vomiting: Morning sickness, which can occur at any time of the day or night.

* Frequent urination: Increased need to urinate due to the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder.

* Food aversions and cravings: Sudden distaste for certain foods and strong cravings for others.

Weeks 5-8

* Embryonic development: The embryo's major organs and body systems begin to form.

* Abdominal bloating: The abdomen may start to swell as the uterus expands.

* Mood changes: Mood swings and increased sensitivity.

Weeks 9-12

* Fetal development: The fetus starts to look more human, with limbs, fingers, and toes becoming visible.

* Increased appetite: Appetite may increase as the body's energy demands rise.

* Skin changes: Skin may become darker around the nipples, underarms, and inner thighs.

* Hair growth: Hair may grow thicker and darker.

Second Trimester (13-27 weeks)

Weeks 13-16

* Rapid fetal growth: The fetus grows rapidly, and its movements may become noticeable.

* Enlarged uterus: The uterus continues to grow and may reach the level of the navel by the end of week 16.

* Increased energy: Many women experience a surge of energy during this trimester.

Weeks 17-20

* Fetal heartbeat: The fetal heartbeat can be heard during a prenatal checkup.

* Visible baby bump: The baby bump becomes more prominent as the uterus continues to expand.

* Back pain: Mild back pain may occur as the uterus puts pressure on the spine.

* Constipation: Increased levels of progesterone can slow digestion and cause constipation.

Weeks 21-24

* Fetal movements: The fetus's movements become stronger and more frequent.

* Lightening: The baby may drop lower in the pelvis, causing a feeling of lightening in the abdomen.

* Swelling: Swelling in the hands, feet, ankles, and face may occur due to increased blood volume.

Third Trimester (28 weeks to birth)

Weeks 25-28

* Rapid weight gain: The fetus grows rapidly, and the mother may gain about 1 pound (0.45 kilograms) per week.

* Frequent urination: The need to urinate becomes even more frequent as the uterus puts pressure on the bladder.

* Hemorrhoids: Increased pressure on the veins in the rectum can cause hemorrhoids.

* Shortness of breath: As the uterus expands, it pushes against the diaphragm and lungs.

Weeks 29-32

* Increased Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions become stronger and more frequent.

* Colostrum production: The breasts may start producing colostrum, a yellowish fluid that precedes breast milk.

* Swelling: Swelling in the hands, feet, ankles, and face may become more pronounced.

Weeks 33-36

* Fetal position: The fetus usually turns head down in preparation for birth.

* Increased cervical mucus: Thick, sticky cervical mucus may be produced to seal the cervix and protect against infection.

Weeks 37-40

* Full-term pregnancy: The baby is fully developed and ready for birth.

* Effacement and dilation of the cervix: The cervix begins to soften, thin (efface), and open (dilate) in preparation for labor.

It's important to note that every pregnancy is unique, and the symptoms experienced may vary from person to person. Regular prenatal care and communication with a healthcare provider can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and address any concerns or questions.