This can be such a thrilling yet overwhelming experience for one who embarks on pregnancy. As a matter of fact, this initial month is the most critical period because your body starts to adapt to the new life growing inside you. Understanding first month pregnancy symptoms and learning how to cope with common discomforts, such as itching in pregnancy, makes this journey much easier.
First Month Pregnancy Symptoms
Even though many changes do not come outwardly, it is an important change time. Here are some common symptoms that may begin to arise:
- Missed Period: This is probably the major cause of missed periods for someone whose periods have been very regular.
- Fatigue: Your body is carrying a developing foetus, so naturally, you’re feeling extra tired. It’s wonderful to get as much rest as possible because your body’s working overtime.
- Nausea: Also known simply as morning sickness, this condition can occur at any time of day. This symptom usually occurs due to hormonal imbalances and may begin two weeks into the pregnancy.
- Sensitive Breasts: Hormonal changes cause tenderness in breasts; it is often an early sign of pregnancy.
- Frequent Urination: Your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder, leading you to the restroom.
- Mood Swings: All those hormones play havoc with your mood, making you more emotionally and irritable than usual.
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Your stomach can also puff up just like your periods are going to; it’s just that hormones are causing the bloating this time.
Observing all such first few months of pregnancy symptoms helps you be prepared and adjust for what is in store.
Controlling Pregnancy Itchiness
Every pregnant woman complains of itching in pregnancy. The degree of itching varies from mild to extreme, according to the affected parts of the body. Here’s how you can tackle pregnancy itching better:
1. Moisturize
Apply a quality moisturiser to hydrate the skin. Use a fragrance-free, dye-free lotion to provide less irritation.
2. Stay Cool
Heat can make itching worse; try to be in cooler temperatures. Lightweight, loose, and airy garments made from natural fibres, such as cotton, can also aid.
3. Oatmeal Bath
Make an oatmeal bath by combining colloidal oatmeal in lukewarm water. An ointment with an anti-inflammatory may reduce itching.
4. Avoid Hot Shower
Hot water will strip off the oils in your skin, hence making it worse. Instead, take warm showers.
5. Use Gentle Soaps
Switch to mild soaps and detergents that are fragrance-free to not induce irritation.
6. Hydrate
Drinking a sufficient amount of water hydrates your skin from within.
If you experience itching severe enough or accompanied by other symptoms that may be the indication of more severe conditions such as cholestasis of pregnancy, you should visit your doctor.
Getting a feel of what the first month of pregnancy is like, in a way, is tuning into new signs that your body sends to you. First month of pregnancy symptoms, if better understood, can prepare you better for the change and challenges ahead of you. Besides, managing itchiness in pregnancy with simple changes and hydration through skincare routines can offer great improvement in comfort and well-being. Remember, some discomfort is part of it, but your healthcare provider will be with you every step of the way.