The Beginning of a New Journey
Discovering that you’re pregnant brings a mix of emotions — joy, excitement, nervousness, and a long list of questions. The first trimester of pregnancy — the first 12 weeks — is a time of great change as your body starts supporting a new life. While it’s an exciting phase, it can also come with symptoms that feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we walk beside you from day one, offering the best pregnancy care in Lucknow — with medical expertise, emotional support, and practical tools to make the first trimester more comfortable.
What’s Happening in Your Body?
In the first trimester, your body is adjusting to a surge of hormones like hCG, progesterone, and estrogen. These changes are necessary to sustain the pregnancy but can trigger a range of physical symptoms. Understanding that your body is working hard behind the scenes helps you approach each symptom with patience and care.
This is also the time when important fetal development takes place — the baby’s heart starts beating, and the brain, spinal cord, and other organs begin forming. Your choices now — from what you eat to how you rest — lay the foundation for a healthy pregnancy.
Common First Trimester Symptoms and How to Manage Them
Morning Sickness and Nausea
Nausea — often referred to as morning sickness — can actually occur at any time of day. It’s usually caused by rising hormone levels and increased sensitivity to smells. While it usually eases by the second trimester, it can be distressing.
We recommend small, frequent meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding foods or smells that trigger nausea. Ginger tea and vitamin B6 supplements (under medical advice) can offer relief. At Dr. Richa’s clinic, we help manage severe nausea with safe medications and dietary counselling.
Fatigue
Your body is using a lot of energy to build the placenta and support early development. It’s normal to feel tired, even if you’re not doing much.
Prioritize rest, listen to your body, and consider short naps if needed. Eating iron-rich foods and staying hydrated can also help. We check for conditions like anemia or thyroid imbalances during your antenatal visits.
Breast Tenderness and Bloating
Your breasts may feel sore or fuller due to hormonal shifts. Supportive undergarments and wearing breathable fabrics can reduce discomfort.
Bloating and mild cramping are also common. Light movement, healthy fiber intake, and avoiding processed foods often ease these symptoms.
Mood Swings
Emotional ups and downs are completely normal. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and even the anticipation of becoming a parent can all contribute.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we encourage open conversations about mental health. If anxiety or sadness feels heavy, know that help is always available through emotional counselling and supportive care.
Key Checkups and Tests in the First Trimester
We begin with confirmation of pregnancy through blood and urine tests, typically after a missed period and around the 7-week mark.
Your first ultrasound checks for fetal heartbeat and gestational age. Between 11–13 weeks, we perform the NT scan, which screens for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome.
Routine tests also include:
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Blood sugar and thyroid levels
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Complete blood count
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Blood pressure checks
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Vitamin D and iron screening
Our comprehensive antenatal care in Lucknow ensures that both mother and baby are monitored with care and compassion right from the start.
Tips to Stay Comfortable and Healthy in the First Trimester
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Drink plenty of fluids — coconut water and herbal teas are great options
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Include almonds, walnuts, folate-rich greens, and proteins in your diet
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Avoid x-rays, raw papaya, pineapple, and unprescribed medications
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Gentle stretching and prenatal yoga (once approved by your doctor) helps ease body tension
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Use breathing techniques to manage stress and relax your body
Comfort is not just physical — it’s also emotional. Having a doctor you trust, and a space where your concerns are heard, can make all the difference.
When to Call Your Doctor
Some symptoms are red flags and need immediate attention. Please reach out to your doctor if you experience:
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Heavy bleeding
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Persistent pain or cramping
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High fever
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Severe vomiting and dehydration
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Dizziness or blurred vision
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s best gynaecology clinic in Lucknow, we ensure quick response and thorough evaluation for any concerns, no matter how small they may seem.
A Foundation for the Months Ahead
The first trimester is about laying the groundwork — not just for your baby’s development but for your confidence and comfort as an expecting mother. With proper guidance, regular checkups, and small daily acts of care, you can make this phase smoother and more joyful.
Our team at Dr. Richa’s clinic is here to offer personalized pregnancy support that grows with you — trimester by trimester.
