First-trimester changes
What to expect in the first 13 weeks, and which early symptoms need to be checked.
- Tiredness, nausea, tender breasts and mood changes are common
- Eat small frequent meals and keep hydrated
- Book antenatal care before 14 weeks
- Only take medicine your nurse or doctor has approved
In the first weeks, hormone changes can make you feel more tired than you have ever been. Nausea, sometimes with vomiting, is common and often worst in the morning but can happen at any time. Your breasts may feel tender, you may go to the toilet more often, your sense of smell may change, and your mood may swing.
Small, frequent meals, dry foods such as crackers before getting out of bed, plenty of fluids, and rest all help with nausea. Avoid medicines that have not been prescribed for you.
Book your first antenatal visit as early as you can — ideally before 14 weeks — so that your blood pressure, blood tests and dates can be checked.
Light spotting can happen in early pregnancy, but bleeding is never something to manage on your own.
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal or one-sided pain
- Vomiting so much that you cannot keep fluids down
- Fever above 38 °C
- Fainting or severe dizziness
Go to your clinic or hospital the same day if you have any of these signs. Severe pain, heavy bleeding or fainting needs emergency care immediately.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.