Pregnancy: What to Expect Each Trimester

Pregnancy is a wild ride—and every trimester comes with its own little surprises! From the moment you see those two pink lines to the first cry of your newborn, your body (and mind!) go through incredible changes. Whether you're feeling a bit sick, incredibly tired, or just a bit… emotional, you're not alone—and it's all part of the amazing process of growing a human.

Let’s take a look at what you might expect in each trimester—and how to feel more informed, empowered and reassured along the way.

💡 Want to go deeper into what’s happening in your body, your baby’s development, and how to feel more confident at every stage? We cover all of this and more inside The Birth & Baby Academy—our expert-led, feel-good online antenatal & postnatal course for parents who want to feel fully prepared, not overwhelmed.

First Trimester of Your Pregnancy (Weeks 1–12): Welcome to the rollercoaster

This early phase is a time of big changes—but often with few signs on the outside. Your hormones are working overtime, and you might experience:

• Fatigue – Growing a placenta is no joke! It’s normal to feel utterly wiped.

• Morning sickness – (Which can happen any time of day, let's be honest). Some feel it mildly, others get hit harder.

• Mood swings – Hormones plus exhaustion… yep, it’s a potent combo.

• Food aversions or cravings – One minute it’s toast or nothing, the next it’s pickles and ice cream!

🔎 Inside The Birth & Baby Academy, we dive into how to look after yourself in this tricky trimester, and what’s really normal—so you can ditch the Googling and get real guidance instead.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27): The golden middle

For many, this is the sweet spot. Nausea often fades, energy returns, and your bump makes its debut.

• Increased energy – You might feel like your old self again (with a bump!).

• Physical changes – A growing bump, stretching skin, maybe some heartburn.

• Baby movements – The magical flutters begin!

• Emotional ups and downs – Excitement meets nerves.

🎥 Our course walks you through this trimester in detail—including what’s happening with your baby’s development, what appointments to expect, and how to prepare emotionally as things become more real.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–42+): The home stretch

Things are ramping up. Your baby is growing fast, your body is getting ready for birth, and your mind might be in full nesting mode.

• Discomfort – Backache, swelling, and sleepless nights can hit.

• Braxton Hicks – Practice contractions that can be confusing at first.

• Birth plans and prep – Time to think about how you’d like things to go.

• Wobbly emotions – Excitement, fear, impatience—it's all valid.

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💪 In The Birth & Baby Academy, we help you prepare for birth with calm confidence—not fear. You’ll learn how to make informed decisions, how to cope with labour, and how to plan for a positive postnatal period too.

👶 Don’t forget: Our free video “Take Control of Your Birth” is a great place to start if you want to feel empowered and ready for what’s ahead.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy is unique for everyone, but no one should go through it feeling clueless or alone. From your first trimester to holding your baby in your arms, The Birth & Baby Academy is here to guide you through it all—judgment-free, evidence-based, and grounded in real-life support. 💗

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