Welcome to your third month of pregnancy, and the last month of your first trimester! Even though there is a lot to celebrate—you're almost done with the first leg of this nine-month journey, after all—you might be feeling too nauseous to do much more than lift your glass of flat ginger ale in salute. While some early pregnancy inconveniences (including morning sickness and food aversions) tend to peak this month, the exciting changes and developments can help take your mind off your problems.
Your Baby
Things to Start Thinking About
Weight Gain During Pregnancy: If you are a normal weight woman, the total amount of weight generally recommended to gain during pregnancy is somewhere between 25 and 35 pounds. Much of this weight gain takes place in the latter stages of pregnancy; during the first trimester, weight gain of 1 to 1.5 pounds per month is advised, for a total of 3 to 5 pounds for the entire first trimester. You may have different weight gain needs depending on your pre-pregnancy weight or whether you are carrying twins or more. Talk to your prenatal care provider about what amount is appropriate for you.
Staying Regular: Hormonal changes during pregnancy slow down digestion, which can lead to constipation. Awesome, right? Iron in your prenatal supplement often adds to the problem. The best way to stay regular? Bulk up your prenatal diet by adding fiber-filled foods. As Dr. La Follette recommends, "Eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and bran cereal to make sure your bowel movements are regular, and be sure to drink plenty of water."
LOOK AHEAD: Month 4
