Early Pregnancy

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Specialist Care From The First Trimester

The only way to be certain that you are pregnant is to take a blood pregnancy test. You can take a pregnancy test starting from the first day of your missed period.

To confirm a suspected pregnancy with confidence and accuracy, it is best to speak with one of our specialists, who can provide you with a reliable result.

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Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Some of the earliest pregnancy symptoms are similar to those you might expect around your period. For instance, implantation bleeding may occur, which involves spotting or slight cramping just after conception when the fertilised egg attaches itself to the uterine lining. This bleeding typically happens 6 – 12 days after fertilisation.

Another symptom is discharge, which results from the thickening of the vaginal walls due to increased cell growth. This can lead to a whitish, milky, and odourless discharge. Additionally, breast tenderness is a common early pregnancy symptom caused by changing hormone levels.

Your breasts may feel sore, swollen, tingly, heavier, or fuller than usual. Some women also experience a darkening of the area around the nipple (areola). Typically, breast pain decreases once the body adjusts to the new hormone levels.

Other Common Symptoms

Morning sickness typically occurs in the morning, though not all pregnant women experience it. Some may feel nauseous at various times of the day during the early stages of pregnancy.

Fatigue can set in as early as one week after conception, often due to higher levels of progesterone, lower blood sugar levels, or lower blood pressure. This fatigue can sometimes be managed with dietary changes, such as increasing protein and iron intake.

Additionally, food cravings or aversions can develop and may persist throughout the pregnancy. Missing a period is usually the first and most obvious sign of pregnancy, although it is important to note that a missed period is not always indicative of pregnancy.

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First Trimester Timeline

Early pregnancy, typically defined as the first trimester, occurs from week 1 to week 12, starting from the first day of your last menstrual period. This is a crucial period for both you and your baby.

During this time, your body undergoes numerous changes to support the developing fetus, and the embryo develops into a fetus. By the end of the first trimester, the fetus has developed basic structures such as the heart, brain, arms, and legs. It is also starting to move, although you will not be able to feel it yet.

This period is also an opportunity for you to establish good habits and receive important medical care. We conduct a thorough health assessment to ensure that both you and your baby are healthy. This includes discussing your medical history, current health conditions, and any lifestyle factors that might affect your pregnancy.

Statistics​

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First Trimester Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are essential in the first trimester to support both the baby’s development and the mother’s health.

  • Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Essential for the development of the baby’s neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord. Adequate folic acid can help prevent serious birth defects of the brain and spine.
  • Iron: Aids in the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your cells and the baby’s cells. It is important to avoid anaemia, which can lead to fatigue and complications.
  • Calcium: Supports the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Your body will draw calcium from your bones if you do not get enough from your diet, which can affect your bone density over time.
  • Vitamin D: Works with calcium to build the baby’s bones and teeth and supports the immune system.
  • DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): An omega-3 fatty acid important for brain and eye development. Some prenatal vitamins include DHA, but it can also be taken as a separate supplement if needed.
  • Vitamin B12: Works with folic acid to help produce red blood cells and helps keep the nervous system healthy.
  • Iodine: Important for thyroid function, which regulates metabolism and is crucial for the baby’s brain development.

How To Book A Private Doctor Appointment?

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Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

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The Procedure

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Pre-Appointment

When preparing for your appointment, gather details about your medical history, medications, and previous pregnancies. Note any pregnancy-related symptoms or concerns you may have. Provide information about your last menstrual period and be ready to discuss your current diet, lifestyle, and supplements. It is also useful to prepare a list of questions regarding prenatal care, lifestyle adjustments, and any other concerns. Additionally, share relevant family medical history and consider involving your partner for additional insights and support.

during the appointment

Appointment

Your healthcare provider will ask about your medical history, including any past pregnancies, chronic conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors. You might receive a basic physical examination, including an assessment of your vital signs. Depending on your provider and how far along you are in your pregnancy, they might perform a pelvic examination to check the health of your uterus and ovaries. If you are early in your pregnancy (usually around 6–8 weeks), your provider might perform a transvaginal ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and check for a fetal heartbeat. Tests may also be conducted to measure your levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and other pregnancy-related hormones. Additionally, tests might be done for conditions such as HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

To get the most accurate result from your pregnancy test, waiting until the first day of your missed period is best. The best way to know for sure is to get tested by a doctor. Your provider will discuss the results of the ultrasound, including the presence of a fetal heartbeat and the estimated gestational age. Your provider will explain what the blood tests show and how your hormone levels and other markers are progressing. If there are any concerns, such as irregularities, further tests or follow-ups might be required.

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I want to take a pregnancy test. When will I get the most accurate result?
To get the most accurate result from your pregnancy test, it is best to wait until the first day of your missed period. The best way to know for sure is to get tested by a doctor.
What are the most common early signs of pregnancy?
Roughly 6-12 days after implantation of a fertilised egg, you may notice implantation bleeding – mild spotting or slight cramping. Discharge may increase, and your breasts may feel more tender than usual, or swollen.
Do all pregnant women experience morning sickness?
Not all women will experience morning sickness during their pregnancy. Nausea may also occur during the pregnancy throughout the day, not just in the morning. For those who do experience it, the majority will improve after the first trimester, but some women experience severe morning sickness which can last for the duration of the pregnancy.

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