A healthy first trimester is crucial to normal fetal development. After you have chosen your physician or midwife, be sure to schedule your first prenatal visit. If you have concerns about any symptoms you may be experiencing, contact your physician right away.
During your first prenatal visit, your physician will take a complete medical history and perform a physical exam. You will also have a first trimester screening, which will include several tests and procedures to assess the initial health of your baby.
Be prepared to answer questions about your personal and family health history. You should also ask questions or discuss any concerns that you have about your pregnancy.
Early in the first trimester your embryo implants itself in the uterine wall, and the following major developments take place:
During the first eight weeks of your pregnancy, your baby is called an embryo. By the end of the first trimester, your embryo will become a fully formed fetus, weighing approximately ½-1 ounce and measuring three to four inches long, on average.
During the first trimester, your baby is most susceptible to damage from substances such as alcohol, drugs and certain medications and from illnesses such as rubella.
Some symptoms of pregnancy continue for several weeks or months, while others are only experienced for a short time. Keep in mind that every woman experiences pregnancy differently. You may experience some or many of the following changes:
Although multiples account for only a small percentage of all births (about three percent), the number of women pregnant with twins or multiples is on the rise. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the twin birth rate has risen by 70 percent since 1980 and as of 2015 is at 32.6 per 1,000 live births. There are several factors that increase your chances of becoming pregnant with multiples, including:
Being pregnant with multiples, while exciting, can carry increased risks of complications such as preterm labor, premature birth, miscarriage and anemia. Your physician will evaluate your pregnancy and your babies, help you understand what you can expect from the pregnancy and manage any complications that may arise.
Learn more about Prenatal and Maternity Services at UPMC Pinnacle.
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