First Trimester of Pregnancy: The Most Common Pains and Complaints

You're pregnant, and your whole body is changing. Most of the changes and emotions are a-ma-zing. You feel your baby move for the first time, your breasts are getting bigger, your hair is getting fuller... But let's be honest, it's not all sunshine and roses. Nausea, stomach aches, cramps, back pain, stress... not exactly the symptoms you're looking forward to.

Abdominal pain and cramps are normal during pregnancy and usually nothing to worry about. But sometimes your body is trying to tell you something. Pain that's very severe or doesn't go away can be a sign of something serious.

In this blog post, we'll explain the different types of pain and discomfort you might experience during the first few weeks of pregnancy. We'll also explain what's normal and when you should see your midwife.

Nausea during the first weeks

Nausea and vomiting are very normal during the first weeks of pregnancy. Many women also experience morning sickness, especially during the first trimester. But you can experience it at any time of the day or night. Sometimes you even have it all day long. It's annoying and can affect your entire day.

How to reduce nausea during pregnancy?

Every woman is different, so try different options to find what works:

1. Avoid foods and smells that make you nauseous . If a particular smell or food makes you nauseous, stay as far away from it as possible.
2. Eat 3 to 4 small meals and two snacks daily.
3. Make sure you drink plenty of water —at least 2 liters per day—dehydration can worsen nausea. Drink herbal teas suitable for pregnant women, such as ginger, peppermint, or peach leaf. These also promote movement through your gastrointestinal tract.
4. Furthermore, studies have shown that B6 can improve nausea and B12 can reduce the frequency of vomiting. Consult your doctor before taking vitamins. If you take a multivitamin, never take it on an empty stomach, but always with a meal.
5. Visit an acupuncturist to reduce nausea during pregnancy.
6. And above all: rest as much as you need , because fatigue can make your nausea worse. Remember: your body is creating a tiny human being! You're already doing enough.

Pregnancy acne

Some women experience pregnancy acne during the first trimester. These pimples are caused by changes in hormone balance, particularly progesterone. They appear on the face, but can also appear on the chest, back, buttocks, or shoulders. The pimples usually subside after the first trimester, but they can also persist throughout the pregnancy.

Pregnant and Lower Back Pain During the First Trimester

Lower back pain is common during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Why is that? And should you be worried? When you're pregnant, the ligaments in your body naturally begin to soften and stretch. This is how your body prepares for the growth of your baby and for delivery. This is very effective, but it can put strain on the joints of your lower back and pelvis. The result? Back pain.

You might also hear the term "ligament pain" during pregnancy. Ligament pain is a sharp pain or stabbing sensation, usually in your lower abdomen or groin. It's uncomfortable, but it's one of the most common complaints during pregnancy.

Relieving back pain during pregnancy

Back pain during pregnancy can be a real downer. When your back hurts, almost nothing feels right, and even simple activities can be tiring. Here's how to relieve back pain:

• When lifting something , bend your knees and keep your back straight (or ask for help!).
• Avoid lifting heavy objects . We know it might feel awkward to ask for help with things you can normally lift, but don't be a hero; there's really no need. Take care of yourself and your growing baby; that's your most important job now.
• Move your feet as you turn to avoid twisting your spine too much.
• Avoid heels – wear flat shoes.
• When shopping, carry two smaller bags instead of one large one.
• Use pregnancy pillows while sleeping.
• Try a massage or a warm bath (not too hot).

If you are really struggling, talk to your midwife for more tips and techniques.

Pregnant and lower abdominal pain during the first few weeks

Lower abdominal pain and cramping in early pregnancy can worry even the most relaxed expectant mothers, especially if you've had a pregnancy loss in the past. But try not to panic.

Stomach cramps and pain are very common and usually nothing to worry about.

During the first twelve weeks, you'll likely experience some pain as your uterus expands. Your ligaments also stretch, and hormones are working hard. All of this can cause pain and cramping. This pain can feel like a twinge in the side or mild period pain. If the pain goes away when you change position, rest, use the toilet, or pass gas, it's probably nothing to worry about.

Towards the end of your pregnancy, you may also experience period-like cramps. This, too, is probably nothing to worry about. If you are worried, trust your gut. Call your midwife and discuss your concerns.

Pregnancy anxiety isn't pleasant at all, and talking to a professional can give you some reassurance. Do not—we repeat—DO NOT Google your symptoms. It's a minefield of misinformation and can send you into a downward spiral.

How long do cramps last in the first trimester?

Pregnancy cramps are common in the first and second trimesters. It's unlikely you'll experience constant cramps, but they will come and go as your body continues to change.

These pregnancy cramps can feel like menstrual cramps. Normal pregnancy cramps can last from a few minutes to a few hours. They usually go away when you change position, so try not to sit for too long.

There's also another pain known as "lightning scotch" or electric vagina. Great name, don't you think?

It's an apt term because it refers to a quick, intense pain in your vagina. It might sound scary, but it's mostly just strange. Many women experience vaginal electric shock without anything serious happening, although it can be hard not to scream... just hope you're not in an important meeting when it happens!

As long as the pain is not severe or accompanied by bleeding, there is probably no cause for immediate concern.

How can you relieve cramps during the first weeks of pregnancy?

Is there any relief from pregnancy cramps and pain? Or will you just have to wail through the next three trimesters? No, luckily there are things you can do to ease your cramps.

Cramps often go away when you stand up, change position, drink something, or rest. Your body is smart, and pain is often a way of telling you something's bothering you or that you need to rest.

Sometimes cramps can also be a sign that you're too stressed. Take a few minutes to relax. Drink herbal tea, meditate, or read a book. You can also take a shower, go for a short walk, or watch something funny on TV.

In the evening, you can relax in a warm bath. If you have pain in a particular area, you can place a hot water bottle over it.

Also make sure you drink enough.

Insomnia and other sleep problems during the first trimester

Because of the raging hormones, you'll likely be incredibly tired during the first trimester, and you might not be able to sleep at night. Unfortunately, this is perfectly normal.

During the day, high progesterone levels can suddenly make you feel incredibly tired. Progesterone is an important hormone for your cycle, but it can also make you feel calm and sleepy. You might even feel so exhausted that you're certain you're coming down with something.

But surprisingly enough, progesterone can also prevent you from sleeping well at night (which in turn makes you even more tired during the day!).

The only thing you can do is accept that your body is working hard and give yourself as much rest as possible. Work from home, if possible, so you can rest in between.

When do you call your midwife?

While pregnancy cramps and pain are often nothing to worry about, you shouldn't ignore them either. Pay close attention to your body and call your midwife immediately if your abdominal pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• bleeding
• regular cramps or shortness of breath
• strange-looking vaginal discharge
• pain or a burning sensation when urinating

Even if your pain is severe or doesn't go away after resting for half an hour or an hour, call your midwife to get checked out. You never need to feel like you're being a nuisance or wasting a doctor's time.

Your health and that of your baby is paramount. Reassurance can reassure you and relieve stress, and early detection of problems can, in some cases, be life-saving.

Anxiety during pregnancy

Anxiety during pregnancy is common. Every little ache or strange feeling can be worrying, especially if it's your first pregnancy and you don't know what to expect or what's considered "normal."

If you're feeling scared and don't know who to talk to, contact your midwife and ask for support. And remember: you can talk to us too . We're here for you.

Natural support for a healthy pregnancy

Sometimes it can feel like you just have to wait for the pain to go away. But there are many things you can do to take matters into your own hands, such as supplement support .

1. Add a multivitamin with folic acid (especially during the first trimester). Folic acid is essential because it can help prevent some major birth defects of the baby's brain (anencephaly) and spine (spina bifida). The neural tube forms the early brain and spinal column.

2. Look for supplements or a multivitamin with iron. Iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin. This isn't a bad idea, as a pregnant woman has about 45 percent more blood in her body.

3. It's also recommended to get enough magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral that plays an important role in the functioning of the immune system, muscles, and nerves.

4. Consider supplements containing DHA ( omega-3 ) . These healthy fats contribute to the normal development of the fetus's eyes and brain.

Are you pregnant? And perhaps a little anxious? We understand. If you have questions about your lifestyle, nutrition, or supplements, talk to our team of experts . We're midwives (and moms too!), and we're here for you.