Pregnancy: 3-step body adaptation process

Posted on 4 August 2015

Waiting for your body to change in response to your growing baby can be equally as daunting as the pregnancy itself. But Dr Johannes van Waart, a fertility specialist at Wijnlands Fertility who works with Stellenbosch Mediclinic, says it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what to expect…

 First trimester: your body adapts
In week one to 12, the woman’s body and psyche undergo changes. She’s anxious about what to expect. Hormonal and physical changes are adapting her body so she’s often nauseous, gaining weight (between 2 to 4kgs) and experiencing back and hip pain as her ligaments stretch. It’s vital to eat healthily during the entire pregnancy, avoiding alcohol and, if you’re a smoker, quitting. It’s also a good idea to supplement your vitamin intake, with your doctor’s advice.

Second trimester: getting used to it
Called the ‘flying’ phase, week 13 to 27 is when she’s enjoying being pregnant. Her skin is glowing, she has energy and isn’t too uncomfortable so she can continue with regular life. This is the point where expectant mothers begin to ‘enjoy the process’. It’s important to stick to your doctor’s check-up/scan schedule during this phase to keep an eye on your health and that of your baby.

Third trimester: prepping for birth
By week 28 to birth, she’s physically at her biggest, which puts huge strain on the body and organs, so she’s very uncomfortable (having gained 12-14kg at term), often breathless and not sleeping. This is the time to prepare for your birth, whether you plan to have the baby at home with a doula or in the hospital. Make sure your hospital bag is packed with supplies for you and the baby, and within easy reach.

 

The information provided in this article was correct at the time of publishing. At Mediclinic we endeavour to provide our patients and readers with accurate and reliable information, which is why we continually review and update our content. However, due to the dynamic nature of clinical information and medicine, some information may from time to time become outdated prior to revision.