Mom's Feelings
Welcome to pregnancy! You are now at the door-step to a wonderful new feeling-the feeling of being a mother. No words can express the joy of when you realize that a life is slowly taking shape in your womb.
As you enter the first month of pregnancy, you are at the threshold of a life changing set of events that will soon be the centre of your attention for years to come.
At this stage, you may not look pregnant outwardly, but you know that serious changes have started taking place in your body that will end up as a miracle called pregnancy.From now on, your life is like a roller coaster ride. During the first month of pregnancy, it is better to sit back, relax and take things in its stride, rather than be worried about the consequences of pregnancy.
Symptoms of Pregnancy during the First Month
During the first week of pregnancy, you face an array of tests to confirm pregnancy. Your missed period is the first sign that something drastic is going to occur in your body. Pregnancy test involving urine and blood can confirm it.
Pregnancy Tests
There are several tests to confirm pregnancy. You can buy a home pregnancy test kit from any medical shop. They usually test urine for the presence of certain hormones that are present only during the time of pregnancy. It is a good idea to use these tests after a week of missing your period. Generally, these kits contain strips of chemically treated paper that changes colour when they are in contact with urine of pregnant mothers.
Once you confirm the pregnancy, you have to visit a doctor for a detailed analysis of your blood or urine.
What to Expect During the First Month of Pregnancy
The first month of pregnancy is the time to plan ahead, for the coming months. Go shopping and buy loose fitting clothes that won’t hamper you when you are doing your daily chores. Stick to a daily schedule that is not hectic.
This is also a time for you to re-order your lifestyle, and take a stock of your situation. You may notice that you are feeling anxious and even worried about the things that are yet to come. You feel tired often, and you find it hard to focus on work during this time. It would be good if you take a nap during the afternoon. Go to bed early in the bed, and take time to be with yourself, alone. Go through the varied emotions that you are undergoing and take joy in being at the doorstep of motherhood.
Let others pamper you. If there are older children in your home, then ask them to help with the household chores. It is not advisable to do any heavy duty exercises during this time; however, you can always take a stroll to the nearby store.
By the 28th day, the embryo is a tadpole sized thing which has attached itself to the wall of the uterus. It still hasn’t developed a heart beat yet and its organs have not become functional. It cannot be seen in an ultra-sound scan now.
Changes to the Mothers Body
The changes to the mother’s body are more pronounced than her baby. Your breast would have grown swollen and tender. It is because of estrogen and progesterone your body is producing. The areola will darken, spread and be spotted. The sweat glands will be enlarged. The veins will also seem to bulge out a bit.
A major problem faced by women during their first month of pregnancy is frequent urination. The pressure from the growing uterus on the bladder, the increased efficiency of the kidneys and increased volume of fluids can cause this problem. Urination during the night can be reduced if you limit drinking water after bedtime. Keep hydrating yourself during the daytime. Try to take at least two liters of water every day.
You can also have foods that have high water content like papaya and water melon.
One major discomfort faced by mothers at this time is excessive salivation. You can reduce this discomfort by using water boiled with mint. Take frequent sips instead of drinking everything in one go.
Another problem often associated with pregnancy during the first month is morning sickness. Depending on your hormone levels, you might have mild to severe sickness. Sometimes mothers would not even notice these symptoms. You can mitigate the effects of morning sickness by waking up later than usual. You can eat a diet rich in proteins, and carbohydrates. They help to fight nausea.
Drinking enough water can re-hydrate you after a bout of nausea. Sometimes you will find that nausea is induced by the smell of certain substances and foods. It is better to avoid them for the time being. You can also try to eat early, so that your stomach is not filled with acids that might trigger nausea.
It is a good idea to brush your teeth after vomiting as this will stop any further bouts of nausea. Sometimes chewing a gum, or chocolate can help to stop vomiting.
Social and Family Life
At this time, you will be surprised to find that you are at the centre of attention. Think of how your husband’s eyes will brighten upon hearing the “good news”. You would soon find that the bond between you and your life partner has become stronger. Feel free to talk to him about pregnancy and the emotions that are going through your mind. Spend time tighter and the two of you can even fantasize about the forthcoming joy.
You will also find that your close relatives are there to support you and help through the process of childbirth. Your mother and mother –in-laws can really make a difference in your life now. Their helpful tips and anecdotes can make this time a memorable one.
Diet for the First Month of Pregnancy
During the first month of pregnancy, give special care to your diet. Eat frequently. Have more vegetables and fruits in your diet. Your body is going through serious hormonal changes and a diet rich in protein will aid your body during these times. Avoid citrus juices like lemons as they may trigger vomiting. Add foods rich in protein, like eggs, meat etc. Foods like bread will also help in digestion. Other sources rich in protein are: milk and milk products, beans, nuts and seeds like almonds. You should avoid strong drinks like coffee and alcohol.
Precautions for the First Month of Pregnancy
From the first month of pregnancy, give due care to your posture. Avoid stooping at the shoulders. Stand erect and when you have to bend to pick something up, always do so by bending your knees. Walk slower than normal and avoid bumpy rides in auto rickshaws. Take special care when you are climbing stairs.
A fall during the first month of pregnancy can be dangerous to the child. Also avoid going out during peak afternoon heat. You may be fell constant fatigue during this time. Some mothers may even have short fainting spells during the first month. So if you are prone to fainting then always have someone with you while you are traveling.
