First Pregnancy: Complete Month-by-Month Guide

Written By- Dr. Swapnil Wagh (Administrative officer, SGMSH)

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life‑changing journey, especially when it is your first pregnancy. Along with happiness, it also brings many questions, worries, and excitement. At Sutika Gruha Multispeciality Hospital, Panvel, we believe that the right information helps mothers feel confident, calm, and prepared.

This simple month‑by‑month pregnancy guide will help you understand what happens to your body and your baby during each stage.

Month 1 (Weeks 1–4): The Journey Begins

Baby’s Growth Your baby starts as a tiny fertilized egg and implants itself in the uterus. The placenta and umbilical cord begin to form.

Changes in Mother

  • Missed period
  • Mild cramps or spotting
  • Feeling tired
  • Mood changes

Care Tips

  • Take folic acid as advised by your doctor
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and junk food
  • Visit a gynecologist for pregnancy confirmation

Month 2 (Weeks 5–8): Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Baby’s Growth The baby’s heart, brain, spinal cord, and tiny limbs start forming. The heartbeat can often be seen on ultrasound.

Changes in Mother

  • Morning sickness (nausea or vomiting)
  • Breast tenderness
  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme tiredness

Care Tips

  • Eat small, healthy meals
  • Stay hydrated
  • Get your first ultrasound and blood tests done

Month 3 (Weeks 9–12): End of First Trimester

Baby’s Growth All major organs are formed. The baby now looks more human‑like.

Changes in Mother

  • Morning sickness may reduce
  • Slight weight gain
  • Improved energy levels

Care Tips

  • Continue prenatal vitamins
  • Follow doctor‑recommended scans and tests
  • Avoid heavy physical work

Month 4 (Weeks 13–16): Feeling Better

Baby’s Growth Baby starts moving, though you may not feel it yet. Facial features develop.

Changes in Mother

  • Baby bump becomes visible
  • Reduced nausea
  • Increased appetite

Care Tips

  • Start light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga
  • Eat iron‑rich foods
  • Maintain regular check‑ups

Month 5 (Weeks 17–20): Feeling Baby Movements

Baby’s Growth Baby develops senses and you may feel the first kicks.

Changes in Mother

  • Feeling baby movements
  • Back pain
  • Skin changes

Care Tips

  • Attend anomaly scan
  • Maintain good posture
  • Drink plenty of water

Month 6 (Weeks 21–24): Rapid Growth Phase

Baby’s Growth Baby grows rapidly and starts responding to sounds.

Changes in Mother

  • Leg cramps
  • Heartburn
  • Mild swelling in feet

Care Tips

  • Sleep on your side
  • Eat calcium‑rich foods
  • Monitor blood pressure and sugar levels

Month 7 (Weeks 25–28): Entering Third Trimester

Baby’s Growth Baby’s lungs start developing. Baby becomes more active.

Changes in Mother

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty sleeping

Care Tips

  • Attend regular antenatal visits
  • Start preparing for delivery
  • Discuss birth plans with your doctor

Month 8 (Weeks 29–32): Preparing for Birth

Baby’s Growth Baby gains weight and moves into head‑down position.

Changes in Mother

  • Increased body weight
  • Pelvic discomfort
  • Frequent urination

Care Tips

  • Pack hospital bag
  • Learn breathing techniques
  • Watch for warning signs like severe pain or bleeding

Month 9 (Weeks 33–40): Ready to Meet Your Baby

Baby’s Growth Baby is fully developed and ready for birth.

Changes in Mother

  • Braxton Hicks contractions
  • Lower back pain
  • Anxiety and excitement

Care Tips

  • Stay calm and positive
  • Visit hospital regularly
  • Come to hospital when labor signs begin

Why Choose Sutika Gruha Multispeciality Hospital, Panvel?

At Sutika Gruha Multispeciality Hospital, Panvel, we provide:

  • Expert gynecologists and maternity specialists
  • Advanced ultrasound and diagnostic services
  • Personalized pregnancy care
  • Safe and comfortable delivery facilities

Your pregnancy journey deserves expert care and emotional support. Our team is with you at every step — from your first test to holding your baby in your arms.

Book your antenatal consultation today at Sutika Gruha Multispeciality Hospital, Panvel.