Pregnancy is the stage during which a fetus develops in a woman’s womb until birth. Since different changes occur as the fetus grows, the expectant mother’s body also goes through changes, which is why pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, notes Dr. Mario Roberto Rodríguez Bosch, gynecology and obstetrics specialist at ABC Medical Center.
UNICEF notes that prenatal care helps assess a woman’s health and nutritional status and allows for the early detection of complications or factors that could negatively affect the pregnancy and, therefore, the baby. This allows for early action to limit any potential effects as much as possible.
First Trimester: Weeks 1 to 12
This stage is especially important because it’s when the baby’s initial development takes place. During this time, it’s very important to take a folic acid supplement, which has been shown to reduce the risk of miscarriage and congenital defects in the baby.
It’s also important to avoid harmful substances, tobacco, and alcohol, and to reduce caffeine intake.
What Tests Are Needed?
An ultrasound between weeks seven and eight helps confirm that the embryo has properly implanted in the uterus or rule out an ectopic pregnancy, when the pregnancy develops outside the uterus, which can be life-threatening for the mother. This ultrasound also helps confirm that the embryo shows signs of viability and allows for an estimate of gestational age.
Between weeks 11 and 14, a second ultrasound is performed, known as the first-trimester structural scan. This test can help identify certain risks, such as chromosomal conditions, preeclampsia, or restricted fetal growth, all of which can be managed if detected early.
Second Trimester: Weeks 13 to 26
The second trimester is often considered the best trimester of pregnancy, since expectant mothers tend to feel better, nausea and other symptoms from earlier weeks typically start to fade, notes Dr. Rodríguez. Appetite also tends to increase, and physical activity becomes easier to manage.
During this stage, it’s important to follow a nutrition plan provided by the doctor to help avoid excessive weight gain; instead of folic acid, vitamin supplements containing iron, omega fatty acids, calcium, and other nutrients are typically recommended at this point.
Certain lab tests are also important during this stage, including checking hemoglobin levels to rule out anemia, testing glucose levels to screen for gestational diabetes, and checking for infections such as urinary tract or vaginal infections.
Dental health matters too, since gum disease or cavities have been linked to pregnancy complications.
Another structural ultrasound is performed during this stage, providing a detailed look at the fetus’s anatomy to check for any defects or abnormalities in the cardiovascular system, nervous system, limbs, kidneys, or lips and palate.
Third Trimester: Weeks 27 Until Birth
This is the final stage of pregnancy, and the expectant mother may experience symptoms related to the baby’s growth. Movement can become more uncomfortable, and she may notice fluid retention in the legs, swelling, and possibly varicose veins.
Paying attention to diet and weight gain remains important during this stage, since this is when the baby grows the most. With guidance from her doctor or a lactation consultant, the mother should begin preparing strategies to support successful breastfeeding.
As for tests during this stage, another ultrasound will be needed to assess the baby’s final growth, amniotic fluid levels, and the condition of the placenta, helping determine the most appropriate delivery method.
As the due date approaches, parents should also start packing a bag with everything they’ll need for the big day.
Dr. Rodríguez notes that both parents should talk with their doctor about warning signs that indicate it’s time to go to the hospital right away. These signs can include bleeding, amniotic fluid leaking from the vagina, decreased fetal movement, or elevated blood pressure, among others.
Following these steps, with support from your obstetrician, helps pave the way for a smooth, successful delivery for the newest member of the family.
At ABC Medical Center’s Obstetrics Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
