Pregnancy
By: Jamie Lee
Updated: June 21, 2019
Originally Published: Dec. 7, 2012
Everyone from doctors to your neighbor seems to have the same advice: every pregnancy is unique and a remarkable experience. And it is a remarkable experience; the fact that I’m nurturing a tiny human right now is nothing short of awe-inspiring. That said, it can also feel like a rollercoaster of discomfort.
If you’ve ever encountered a woman in her first trimester—regardless of your age or gender—you’ll likely recognize many of the reasons why this period can be so tough.
Morning Sickness? More Like All-Day Nausea
Morning sickness is often described as a mild queasiness that can be soothed with a couple of crackers. Yeah, right! It’s more like a cruel joke. For those of us who have experienced it, we know that morning sickness doesn’t follow any schedule. You might find yourself hugging the toilet at dawn, lunchtime, or even while trying to enjoy a nice dinner. It’s an unpredictable ordeal, and the remedies offered rarely bring lasting relief. Believe me, I’ve tried everything from acupuncture to ginger ale, and the only real comfort is knowing that this discomfort signifies a growing baby. Silver linings, right?
Forget the Glow
You’ve probably heard about the “pregnancy glow” that supposedly radiates from expectant mothers. Spoiler alert: it might not happen for you! If you’re battling morning sickness, you may end up with dark circles and a greenish hue instead. So don’t hold your breath waiting for that magical glow; it might just be a myth.
Hormonal Havoc
As if the nausea and lack of glow weren’t enough, you might be dealing with unexpected acne. You stare into the mirror, horrified at the hormonal chaos that seems to have resurfaced from your teenage years. Welcome to pregnancy! Your hormones are in charge now, and all you can do is keep your skin as clean as possible and stay hydrated. The good news? This phase won’t last forever.
Uncontrollable Tears
Prepare for tears—lots of them. You may cry over silly things, serious things, or just because. Once those tears start flowing, it’s tough to rein them in, so make sure to have tissues on hand at all times. Remember, it’s all part of the miracle of life—right?
The first trimester can feel like the hardest part of the journey as your body adapts to all the changes. Yes, it will get easier. You’ll eventually find comfort in sleep (before that changes again in the third trimester), your hormones will stabilize, and perhaps you’ll gain some control over those emotional outbursts. Just take it one step at a time.
I know I am, even if my partner sometimes looks at me as if I’m an alien!
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Summary
Pregnancy’s first trimester can be quite challenging with morning sickness, hormonal changes, and unexpected emotional outbursts. While the experience can feel overwhelming, it’s a transformative phase that eventually leads to a more comfortable pregnancy journey. Patience and a sense of humor can go a long way!