Pregnancy Symptoms – What to expect Every Month

Here is your complete guide to Pregnancy Symptoms with information on what to expect every month, as well as tips on what to do!

Pregnancy is a journey of several months, and each month is different from the next! It’s a journey where you fall in love with not just your baby, but your body too, as you observe its marvellous capacity to nurture life inside it!

Okay, so before we get into the month-by-month pregnancy symptoms, it is important to know how these months are calculated. The beginning of pregnancy or gestational age is considered to be the first day of your last period, which is referred to as LMP by medical professionals.

Yes, I know this can be confusing since we tend to think of pregnancy as beginning from the day you conceived. However, going with that idea has a few problems. One is that it’s hard to pinpoint the exact day fertilization happened, and secondly, pregnancy technically doesn’t begin with fertilization; it begins when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterus wall, in a process called implantation. Since implantation can happen up to 6 days after fertilization and can take 3-4 days to complete, calculating the exact date is not possible.

So, it is now accepted as a standard to use the LMP as your starting date of pregnancy, and your gestational age and due date are calculated based on that. We’ll use the same standard in our guide to pregnancy symptoms below – so you know exactly what to expect every month!

Important: Please remember that these pregnancy symptoms are only to be used as a guide and not as a substitute for medical advice.

First Month (0-4 Weeks)

As mentioned earlier, during your first month, you may not ‘technically’ be pregnant – you may be busy trying to get in between the sheets and conceive! Even if you do conceive, the embryo is just the size of a poppy seed, and you most likely won’t know you are pregnant during this month. However, may experience a few symptoms similar to PMS, starting about 14 days after implantation.

What to expect:

1. Lower abdominal pain called ovulation pain or mittelschmerz, that may feel like cramps

2. Breast tenderness

3. Vaginal discharge that looks like egg whites

4. Increased body temperature

5. Light spotting, which is also called implantation bleeding and happens when the egg attaches to the uterus wall

What to do:

• It is recommended to get 400-600 mcg of folic acid a day, even before you start trying for a pregnancy
• If you currently take prescription medication, ask your doctor if it’s safe to continue with it during pregnancy

Second Month (5-8 Weeks)

Your second month is when you are likely to miss your period and realize you’re pregnant, and when your hCG hormone levels are high enough to reflect on a pregnancy test. During this month, your baby grows from the size of an orange seed to the size of a raspberry.

What to expect:

1. Frequent urination, one of the most common pregnancy symptoms occurs as your body begins to produce more fluids and the kidneys have to work harder

2. Bloating, caused due to hormonal changes in the body

3. Aversion to certain foods, as your nose becomes more sensitive to particular smells

4. Moodiness and frequent mood swings due to the sudden flush of pregnancy hormones in your body

5. Extreme fatigue, even if you don’t do much

6. An increase in heart rate, due to the heart pumping more to carry the extra blood produced

What to do:

• When urinating, keep your feet flat on the floor and lean forward to ensure the bladder is completely empty
• If you’ve become extremely sensitive to smells, switch to unscented personal care products and laundry detergents
• This is a good time to start doing pelvic floor exercises, to strengthen your bladder muscles as well as the entire reproductive system. These exercises prevent bladder problems and also help with a smoother birth and recovery.
• Include energy-boosting snacks in your diet, like dried fruit, nuts, crackers, and cheese
• Take rest or sleep extra whenever you feel like it, your body is working hard even if you don’t realize it!

Third Month (9-12 Weeks)

During the third month, the embryo becomes a fetus, and it grows from the size of an olive to the size of a lime over the course of the month.

What to expect:

1. Worsened breast tenderness – they can feel painful and extra sensitive; bras become uncomfortable

2. Larger and darker areola, which is the area around the nipple. You may notice small bumps on it – these are nothing to worry about; they’re just glands to provide extra lubrication to the area

3. Headaches and dizziness due to surges in hormones

4. Constipation and extra flatulence, along with nausea and heartburn

5. Extra saliva in their mouth, or Dysgeusia (metallic taste in the mouth), other after-effects of pregnancy hormones

6. Blue lines on the skin, caused by veins expanding and becoming more prominent to tackle the increased blood moving in the body

7. Hormone-induced acne, or clear, glowing skin

8. Vaginal discharge that appears clear or creamy. This is leukorrhea and is a sign of the body trying to clear out any bacteria from the reproductive tract

What to do:

• For tender breasts, apply an ice pack till the pain reduces. You can also try a hot compress if that’s what works for you.
• Keep nausea at bay by eating smaller meals and drinking ginger tea. Stay away from greasy, spice fare too
• Prevent heartburn by avoiding acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits. Eat dinner a few hours before bed, and sleep with your head elevated
• Tackle constipation by increasing fiber in your diet, a little at a time. If it still doesn’t help, ask your doctor for pregnancy-safe laxatives or stool softeners
• You can’t really prevent leukorrhea, so make life easier by using a panty liner and cotton underwear
• If the excess saliva is bothering you, try chewing sugarless gum

Fourth Month (13-16 Weeks)

Your fourth month will be when things settle down, as you begin your second trimester with week 14. Your baby grows from the size of a lemon to the size of an avocado, and your pregnancy symptoms have more or less reduced.

What to expect:

1. Reduced nausea and food aversion, instead, you have a better appetite and you start gaining weight

2. Shortness of breath is common, as the heart and lungs are working harder than usual

3. Bleeding from the gums and nose, due to increased blood flow in the mucus membranes

4. Stuffy nose and generally lowered immunity, which are pregnancy symptoms most of us dont’ know

5. Dizziness due to changes in blood flow and blood vessels

6. Swelling in the feet and ankles, as well as leg cramps due to the pooling of excess fluid

7. Itchiness and darkening of the skin on the palms and soles of feet, a condition called palmar erythema

8. ‘Mask of pregnancy’ – darkening of facial skin, especially on the cheeks and nose – this is more pronounced in women with a darker complexion.

9. A small baby bump is now visible!

What to do:

• Tackle dizziness by avoiding sudden movements, as well as sitting or standing for long
• Pregnancy hormones can change complexion, so be sure to always wear sunscreen and a hat when going outdoors, since sunlight can exacerbate the condition
• Boost your immunity by including these foods in your diet – soy, fruit juices, green leafy vegetables, chicken, nuts, and seeds
• Take additional precautions by keeping your hands clean and staying away from crowds and sick people
• Nip any dental issues in the bud, and keep your teeth clean and healthy to prevent any buildup of plaque. If you notice anything, don’t hesitate to see your dentist
• Ease the swelling in your feet by keeping them raised when you sit
• This is a good time to start a pregnancy exercise routine, with your doctor’s recommendations – it’ll ease many of the physical difficulties and also make your mood better
• From now on, it’s best to sleep on your side, rather than on your back – this allows for better blood flow and reduces the pressure on the vena cava vein

Fifth Month (17-20 Weeks)

Since you’re well into your third trimester, you’re most likely feeling like yourself again. Your fetus will now grow from the size of an onion to the size of a sweet potato and is undergoing rapid development.

What to expect:

1. First fetal movements, similar to flutters in the abdomen – yes, this is when your baby starts kicking!

2. More heartburn and acid reflux, as the pregnancy hormones relax all muscles, including those of the esophagus

3. Snoring is common, either due to stuffiness in the nose, pregnancy weight gain or relaxation of the muscles in the airway

4. Breast size increases, as much as by two full cup sizes

5. Tingling hands, which occurs when swelling puts pressure on the nerves, especially for computer users

5. Increase in foot size, due to swelling and flattening out of the bones in the feet

6. Proper baby bump is now visible

7. Sleeping issues, due to frequent urination, inability to find a comfortable position, baby kicks

8. ‘Pregnancy brain’ or feeling more forgetful than usual, generally caused by poor sleep and hormonal changes

What to do:

• Try eating smaller meals throughout the day to ease heartburn, and avoid oily or spicy foods to cut down on reflux – also avoid lying down immediately after eating
• To combat snoring, ease up your stuffiness by placing a humidifier in your bedroom. Other options are to use an extra pillow for your head, or nasal strips to widen the nasal passage
• If you experience tingling in your hands or any of the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, take frequent breaks from work and give your hands a shake. Also make sure your posture is right, with your elbows below the level of your hands
• Make sure you’re wearing comfortable, properly fitting shoes without heels, to avoid balance issues
• This may also be the right time to get measured for a new pregnancy bra that gives your breasts the support they need
• You may still be able to wear some of your old clothes, but it’s time to start curating your maternity wardrobe!

Sixth Month (21-24 Weeks)

The sixth month is generally the most comfortable month for pregnant women, as they’ve adjusted to their new lives and routines. Your fetus is now the size of a large banana and will grow to the size of an ear of corn.

What to expect:

1. More pronounced fetal movements – now you can feel kicks and hiccups, as well as when they’re moving around

2. Blurry vision as hormones cause reduced tear production which can lead to dryness and fluid buildup in the eyes

3. Skin tags are common, especially if you have a family history. The skin on the stomach also tends to get dry and itchy due to being stretched

4. Thicker, shinier hair, thanks to pregnancy hormones like progesterone – one of the good pregnancy symptoms!

5. Popped-out belly button, caused by the growing size of the belly

6. Appearance of the linea nigra – a dark line running from the belly button to the pubic area

7. Round ligament pain, which refers to sharp pains in the hips and both sides of the abdomen, caused by the expanding uterus

8. Braxton-Hicks contractions may be experienced by some women, which are normal and is a part of the uterine muscles preparing for labor

What to do:

• If you wear contact lenses, it may be advisable to switch to glasses till the end of your pregnancy
• If the leakage from your breasts is a problem, you can wear breast pads
• Apply a thick moisturizer over your belly to reduce the dryness and itchiness
• Make sure to stay hydrated since the body uses up a lot of water to maintain the increased blood volume, and the amniotic fluid as well as to get the glands in the breasts prepared to make milk

 

Seventh Month (25-28 Weeks)

You will start your third trimester at the end of this month, and your baby will grow from the size of an eggplant to the size of a head of lettuce. A baby born at this stage is considered to be viable, which means it can survive, although it will be a premature birth and will require medical intervention.

What to expect:

1. Fetal movements are quite strong now, and the arms or legs may get caught in your ribs

2. A noticeable baby bump means that people can see that you are pregnant

3. Back pain, caused due to the strain put by your expanding abdomen and increased weight

4. Sciatica, which is a term for sharp, shooting pains originating from the buttocks towards the legs. This occurs when the growing uterus presses against the sciatic nerve

5. Stretch marks are visible on the abdomen and breasts; this happens as the skin stretches, and the middle layer, the dermis, breaks in places

6. Excess sweat and heat rash, pregnancy symptoms that occur since pregnant bodies tend to heat up more and the friction caused by the rubbing of the skin can lead to rashes. This is most commonly seen under the breasts, under the abdomen, and on the inner thighs.

7. Pruritus, or mild itchiness in the hands and feet, which is quite common and may even extend to the chest and back

8. Puffy eyes caused by water retention, poor sleep, and hormones

9. Restless legs syndrome, where there is an annoying tingling feeling in the legs, usually at night – could possibly be due to insufficient nutrients

10. Symphysis pubis dysfunction or SPD, which is a pain felt in the lower pelvic area and pubic region, often when shifting weight from one foot to the other. This occurs as the ligaments in the area loosen up to allow for the baby to pass through

 

What to do:

• During this time, fetuses respond to sounds and music, so talk and sing to your tummy
• If sciatica gets severe, sit in a warm tub for some time, or use a heating pad
• Some yoga stretches can also help relieve pain – ask your doctor for recommendations
• Stay in an air-conditioned environment when you feel too hot and sweaty while staying hydrated all the time
• You can also use a cold compress and some calamine lotion for relief from a heat rash
• Puffy eyes will find relief with some chilled cucumber slices or tea bags
• SPD usually goes away after delivery, but if it hurts too much, you can opt for a support belt
• Nip back pain in the bud by maintaining good posture. The body will have a natural tendency to thrust the abdomen forwards; instead, try to maintain a straight line from the shoulders to hip
• Use a lumbar pillow behind the lower back when sitting
• If restless legs are causing you sleepless nights, ask your doctor for a blood test to check for iron deficiency anemia
• Apply a thick body lotion to reduce any itchiness; however, if it is too severe, you need to see a doctor right away

Eighth Month (29-32 Weeks)

Your baby is almost fully developed and is now growing bigger. Starting from the size of a cauliflower, the fetus will reach the size of a honeydew melon by the end of the eighth month.

What to expect:

1. Breathing difficulties, as the uterus expands upwards, it presses onto your diaphragm and makes it harder to breathe.

2. Fatigue, due to carrying around the extra weight

3. Varicose veins, which appear as reddish blue veins mostly in the legs. These occur because the veins are under pressure from the increased blood volume. This can also cause an increase in blood pressure

4. Hemorrhoids, which along with varicose veins are some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms

5. Increased clumsiness because of the changed center of gravity and resultant change in posture

6. Urinary incontinence, which is when a few drops of urine come out when you sneeze or laugh. This month will see a return of frequent urination too, as the uterus presses against the bladder

7. Increase in Braxton Hicks contractions, as the uterus gets ready for labor in a few weeks

8. Leakage of colostrum from the breasts, which is a thick, yellowish form of breast milk

What to do:

• Get a pregnancy pillow and try to sleep on the left side, in a semi-sitting posture
• To prevent varicose veins, avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time, as well as crossing your legs while sitting. If they still persist, get maternity support hosiery
• Ensure your diet is rich in fiber and fluids, to prevent hemarrhoid pain. You can also try sitz baths, witch hazel pads or a prescription ointment from your doctor
• If colostrum leakage is a problem, get nursing pads and wear only cotton bras
• This month, you should be tracking your baby’s daily movements – there should be at least 10 movements within two hours.
• Set up your environment to prevent falls, like removing slippery rugs or things you can trip over

Ninth Month (33-36 Weeks)

You’re almost at the end of your pregnancy! Your baby is growing from the size of a pineapple to the size of a head of romaine lettuce.

What to expect:

1. Lowered position of the fetus, which happens when the fetus gets ready for childbirth. This relieves heartburn and breathing difficulties, but may put more pressure on the bladder

2. Upper abdominal pain, which happens because the abdominal wall is really being stretched as the uterus expands till the rib cage. The pain worsens when the baby kicks or rolls around

3. Sweating since metabolism increases, generating more heat, and there is increased blood flow to the skin

4. Dry eyes, making it difficult to look at a screen for too long

5. Poor sleep, due to both physical issues as well as mental stress about the impending birth

6. Strong nesting instincts, which makes you want to clean and organize the entire house in one go!

What to do:

• Ask your doctor about exercises you can do to ease back pain and to help progress with a smooth delivery. Standing pelvic tilts and squats are great for this purpose
• Set a calming winding down routine before bed, and journal to get stressful feelings down on paper
• Wear loose clothing made of breathable fabrics, and stay in an air conditioned room when the heat gets too much
• Use artificial tears to keep your eyes moist, especially if you have to look at a screen for long
• Keep your hospital bag packed and ready, as well as your car’s fuel tank full

Tenth Month (37-40 Weeks)

You are in the last leg of your journey and your baby has grown to the size of a small pumpkin, and is ready to be born! Your labor can start any time now, so you need to be alert and watch out for the signs.

What to expect:

1. Lightening or engagement, which are the terms used to refer to the fetus dropping into the lower part of the pelvis in preparation for birth

2. Pain in the pelvis, as the baby is now bigger and may be pressing into the hips and sides of the abdominal wall. Another symptom is lightning crotch, which is the pain radiating from the vagina towards the feet

3. Protruding nipples, as they get ready for the baby to latch on to easily

4. Loose motions, which is considered to be the body’s way of clearing out the lower abdominal area for the baby

5. Dilated cervix – this can begin a few weeks before delivery, and can cause sharp pains. It may also be accompanied by some pinkish brown discharge, which is the loss of the mucus plug which was protecting the tract all this time

6. Signs of labor, which include the water breaking, regular contractions and a dull pain in the back

What to do:

• If back pain or pelvic pain is causing trouble, get a sling that will support the weight of the abdomen
• Stay hydrated and stick to simple, non-greasy foods – avoid foods with too much insoluble fiber
• Stay active with walking and light exercise which can improve your chances of a normal delivery
• Try out perineal massage to stretch the perineum which can make childbirth easier and reduce the chances of episiotomy

Please remember that the pregnancy symptoms mentioned here are considered normal when they’re mild. If you notice an excess of anything, be sure to consult your doctor. It may most probably be nothing, but it’s always best to be safer than sorry.

On the other hand, you definitely need to see your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

1. Excessive swelling in the face or other parts of the body
2. Serious vision problems or intense headaches
3. Pain or burning sensation while urinating
4. Less movement from the fetus – less than 10 movements in 2 hours
5. Too much itchiness in the hands or feet
6. Unexplained rashes
7. High temperature
8. Any amount of vaginal bleeding
9. Significant weight loss

While we have mentioned simple remedies for all the pregnancy symptoms listed above, please feel free to ask your doctor for any medication you may require. Please, please remember that herbal medicines are not safe to consume during pregnancy, even if they are made with natural ingredients. Always consult your doctor before starting any kind of medication or even a new diet plan.

You can check out more information in the WHO guide about Pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and newborn care