Pregnancy is the process from the fertilization of the egg by a spermatozoon to the moment of delivery. During this prolonged period the group of cells that make up the zygote will multiply and go through different phases until they become human beings.

The care of the mother is fundamental during the whole process , because the fetus will be in continuous communication with her and her state of health, her nutrition and even her emotional state can affect her development.

In this article we will review how to take care of yourself during the first month of pregnancy .

First Month of Pregnancy: The Beginning of Fetal Development

The first month of pregnancy marks the beginning of the entire process of gestation . Bearing in mind the difficulty in deciding when the implantation of the fertilised egg in the endometrium has taken place, it tends to be considered as such the period of time that passes from the last menstruation to the start of the first symptoms of pregnancy, specifically amenorrhoea.

During the first pregnancy, different phenomena and processes occur that initiate the development of the future infant. Firstly, the fertilised egg will move from the fallopian tubes to the uterus . There the egg will implant itself in the endometrium, at which point a cellular specialisation will begin to take place according to the zygote, now blastocyst, as it develops.

Throughout the month, the main organs, such as the nervous system, heart and stomach, will begin to develop. However, it is not unusual for miscarriages to occur during this period .

Typical first month symptoms

Although the first month of pregnancy may seem to be an early moment, the truth is that, as we have seen, a series of very important changes are taking place in the body, and it is possible to notice a series of symptoms.

Absence of menstruation

The symptom most closely linked to pregnancy is the sudden and unexpected absence of menstruation, or amenorrhea. Although it can also be due to other causes such as the presence of stress or different medical disorders, amenorrhoea or the absence of menstruation is one of the first symptoms of pregnancy and the first one that makes one suspect its presence.

Fatigue

During the first month of pregnancy it is common that there is an increase in fatigue and that the mother-to-be feels more tired than usual .

Alterations in the breast system

Specifically, it can be observed how the breasts begin to prepare for future breastfeeding , showing a slight growth of the breasts. It is also frequent that the woman feels her breasts are sore and irritated.

Onset of digestive symptoms

The presence of nausea and vomiting is one of the best known and most popular symptoms associated with pregnancy. They typically occur in the morning. There is also an increase in sensitivity to odours, so they are more likely to affect the pregnant woman. In addition, food tastes can change , as can your level of hunger.

Emotional disturbances

Due to the hormonal changes, it is common to see sudden changes in emotion, such as the passage from intense joy to deep sadness without any external element provoking it or being the reaction to it exaggerated or out of the ordinary.

Taking Care of Yourself in the First Month of Pregnancy

The first month is a period of great importance in the correct implementation and the beginning of the development of the embryo, so it is advisable that the future mother starts to take precautions and take care of her health.

Here are some methods or ways to take care of yourself efficiently during the first month of pregnancy.

1. Consult your doctor

It is more than advisable to consult a professional who can indicate specific guidelines for your case (since each pregnancy is different and aspects such as age or the state of the reproductive system must be taken into account) and establish the controls that must be carried out. Likewise, consult with him/her which types of medication or medical tests pose a risk to the health of the foetus and should be avoided or the type of precautions to take in this regard.

2. Healthy eating

It is very important for the correct development of the embryo that the mother takes in enough essential nutrients and maintains a balanced diet with an abundance of fruits and vegetables.

Proteins, calcium, iron and vitamins are elements that must also be implemented in the daily diet. Extreme precautions must be taken in the handling of food, making sure that it is washed and cooked correctly and that it does not contain traces of pesticides or may be contaminated with different dangerous bacteria.

Finally, it is advisable to spread the food intake over the day , eating less but more often.

3. Eliminate alcohol and nicotine consumption

Alcohol and tobacco are two substances that are harmful to the health of the future baby, since they reach the fetus through the umbilical cord . They must be avoided at all costs.

4. Exercise, but avoid violent sports

Practicing sports can be good for the mother and for the baby’s health, and it is advisable to do it on a daily basis (although not at a high intensity). It is necessary that it is practiced with extreme caution , since the presence of blows and trauma derived from some of them can facilitate a possible abortion.

5. Avoid stressful situations and the consumption of stimulants

Stress and anxiety are harmful to fetal development as well as to the health of the mother-to-be. It is advisable to try to keep the level of stress under control . It is recommended to reduce or eliminate the consumption of exciting substances such as coffee.

6. Practice relaxation techniques

Techniques such as yoga and meditation are often useful to relax physically and mentally, which facilitates a good state of health for both of us while helping us learn to deal more calmly with stressful situations that may arise.

7. Sunbathe

Sunlight is good for increasing vitamin D production , so it may be a good idea to plan to spend some time outside.

8. Rest

As we have said, one of the usual symptoms of pregnancy is a high level of fatigue and tiredness. It is necessary and important for the health of both the foetus and the mother that the latter tries to get enough sleep .

9. Communicate the news of your pregnancy to those around you

Sharing your pregnancy with those around you means that they can help you with the process and provide you with both advice and support . In addition, this can help them to be more aware of unexpected behavioural changes or to avoid uncomfortable moments and stressful situations.