The fetus is most vulnerable during the first 12 weeks. During this period of time, all of the major organs and body systems are forming and can be damaged if the fetus is exposed to drugs, infectious agents, radiation, certain medications, tobacco and toxic substances.
Is it OK to have sex during pregnancy? Your developing baby is protected by the amniotic fluid in your uterus, as well as by the strong muscles of the uterus itself. Sexual activity won't affect your baby, as long as you don't have complications such as preterm labor or placenta problems.
The risk of having a miscarriage is highest during the first trimester, and those risks can be minimized by taking prenatal vitamins and avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs, including some prescription drugs.
Most miscarriages occur before the 12th week of pregnancy. Signs and symptoms of a miscarriage might include: Vaginal spotting or bleeding.
Pregnancy hormones, extreme fatigue, nausea and vomiting, tender breasts, and the frequent need to pee are common symptoms that make the first trimester the most challenging time for pregnant women.
Even though it's called morning sickness, it can last all day and happen any time of day. At least 7 in 10 pregnant women have morning sickness in the first trimester (first 3 months) of pregnancy. It usually starts at about 6 weeks of pregnancy and is at its worst at about 9 weeks.
Most miscarriages - 8 out of 10 (80 percent) - happen in the first trimester before the 12th week of pregnancy. Miscarriage in the second trimester (between 13 and 19 weeks) happens in 1 to 5 in 100 (1 to 5 percent) pregnancies. Pregnancy loss that happens after 20 weeks is called stillbirth.
Many women choose to delay announcing a pregnancy at least until the end of the first trimester (12 weeks into their pregnancy). This is usually because of concerns about the risk of miscarriage (pregnancy loss) during this time.
Most miscarriages happen between 6 and 8 weeks gestation. We know that most of these occur due to a major genetic abnormality in the fetus. The sperm and the egg (which are known as gametes) each contain half the genetic material necessary for a complete person.
By the time you're 24 weeks pregnant, the baby has a chance of survival if they are born. Most babies born before this time cannot live because their lungs and other vital organs are not developed enough.
Easing Your Miscarriage Fears
Try to remember that your fears are normal, but that this phase will pass. Take time to practice mindfulness, meditation, and take some time for yourself. This could include any stress-reducing activities you enjoy like yoga or going for a walk.
In your first trimester, your baby is well-protected because your womb (uterus) is tucked in to your pelvis. Your womb has strong, muscular walls and, along with the amniotic fluid, does a good job of cushioning your baby.
Around 80% of pregnancy losses occur during the first trimester, between 0 and 13 weeks. Although the loss is often devastating, these genetic issues mean the baby could not have survived outside the womb.
Your first call at week 4 of pregnancy should be to your doctor to schedule your first prenatal visit, where they'll confirm your pregnancy with a urine or blood test. For updates on what's happening with you and baby throughout your pregnancy, sign up for The Bump pregnancy week-by-week newsletter emails.
Your First Ultrasound
It's typically done between 7 and 8 weeks to verify your due date, to look for a fetal heartbeat, and to measure the length of the baby from “crown to rump.” At this ultrasound, you'll also learn whether you're having one baby, pregnant with twins, or more!
In one study, researchers found a miscarriage rate of 9.4 percent at 6 weeks of pregnancy, 4.2 percent at 7 weeks, 1.5 percent at 8 weeks, 0.5 percent at 9 weeks and 0.7 percent at 10 weeks. This doesn't include situations in which you lose a fertilized egg before a pregnancy becomes established.
Here's the good news: According to a study, after an ultrasound confirms baby's heartbeat at eight weeks, the risk of miscarriage is about 3 percent. Better yet, research published in Obstetrics & Gynecology indicates that the rate is closer to 1.6 percent for women experiencing no symptoms.
Do not eat raw or undercooked meat, chicken, or fish (such as sushi or raw oysters). Do not eat raw eggs or foods that contain raw eggs, such as Caesar dressing. Do not eat raw sprouts, especially alfalfa sprouts. Do not eat soft cheeses and unpasteurized dairy foods, such as Brie, feta, or blue cheese.
Early pregnancy symptoms (at 5 weeks)
It's still early days, and many women won't know they're pregnant at 5 weeks. Not everyone has regular menstrual cycles, so you may not realise that your period is late.
There's no right or wrong time to tell people you're pregnant. It's up to you to decide what's best for you and, if you have a partner, you may want to decide together. Some people choose to wait until after they've had the first ultrasound scan. It's your baby, so it's up to you.