From the moment you see those two lines on a pregnancy test, everything changes. Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Some days may feel magical, while others feel completely overwhelming.

Every woman’s experience is unique, but understanding the stages of pregnancy and the changes they bring can help you feel more prepared, supported, and empowered on your journey to motherhood.

Early Signs of Pregnancy

One of the first signs you might be pregnant is a missed period. If that happens, take a pregnancy test and connect with your doctor for confirmation and guidance.

Common Early Pregnancy Symptoms:

• 🌙 Morning sickness (which can strike at any time of day)
• 😴 Fatigue and tiredness
• 💥 Tender, swollen breasts
• 🍟 Food cravings or aversions
• 🔥 Heartburn or constipation
• 🚽 Frequent urination
• 🎢 Mood swings
• 😵 Dizziness or fainting
• 💢 Aches, pains, or backache

Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms - and that’s perfectly normal. But if any of these symptoms feel severe or is interfering with your daily life, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider.

The 3 Trimesters of Pregnancy: What to Expect

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters. Here’s what typically happens during each stage.

First Trimester (Weeks 1–13)

Your body is working incredibly hard behind the scenes, even if you don’t look pregnant yet.

Common changes:

• Extreme tiredness and nausea
• Tender, growing breasts
• Faster heart rate and breathing
• Mood swings and heightened emotions
• Frequent urination (as your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder)
• Small weight gain (about 1–2 kg)

How you might feel emotionally:
Excited, anxious, overwhelmed, and everything in between. Be gentle with yourself—your hormones are in overdrive, and so is your heart.

Tip: Small self-care habits and proper nutrition can make a difference during this rollercoaster stage. Even if you don’t feel up to cooking, fuelling your body with the right nutrients helps support your energy and baby’s development.

Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27)

Often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy, the second trimester usually brings some relief and renewed energy.

What to expect:

• Morning sickness usually fades
• Energy levels increase
• Hair may thicken and nails grow faster
• You may gain around 6 kg
• Baby’s kicks may become noticeable
• More emotional balance (for many, but not all)

Emotional shifts:
This can be a time of joy, excitement, and nesting. But you might also feel anxious about prenatal tests or the future.

Support your changing body by staying active, eating nourishing foods, and taking time to rest. Many mums find that having a go-to nutritious snack like the Pregnancy Superfood Health Shake helps keep energy levels stable, especially on busy days.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–Birth)

You're on the home stretch! This final phase can feel both exciting and physically challenging.

Common changes:

• Feeling large and uncomfortable
• Difficulty sleeping
• Weight gain of another 5 kg (approx.)—much of this is your baby, plus amniotic fluid, placenta, increased blood volume, breast tissue, and uterus
• Back pain, breathlessness, and Braxton Hicks contractions
• More frequent medical check-ups
• Stronger emotional ups and downs

Emotions:
You may feel eager to meet your baby but also nervous about labour, delivery, or becoming a parent. It’s okay to feel a mix of anticipation and anxiety.

Emotional Changes in Pregnancy

Pregnancy isn’t just about physical changes—your emotions may fluctuate wildly too. Hormones, shifting identity, lifestyle changes, and anticipation all play a role.

You may feel:

• ❤️ Deep love for your baby and growing family
• 😊 Happiness—particularly if you’ve been trying for a long time and are feeling well
• 😰 Anxiety about childbirth, finances, or the future
• 😠 Mood swings, irritability, or frustration
• 😟 Fear—especially around baby’s health or labour
• 😢 Grief or sadness, especially if there’s been past loss

These feelings are completely normal. But if they become overwhelming, know that support is available—and you deserve it.

Depression During Pregnancy

About 15% of women experience depression during pregnancy. It’s more common than many people realise—and nothing to be ashamed of.

Signs of prenatal depression:

• Ongoing sadness or irritability
• Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Feeling hopeless, guilty, or like a failure
• Trouble bonding with baby
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Important:
You’re not alone—and you are not to blame. Many women don’t seek help because they feel guilty about not feeling happy. But depression isn’t something you can just "snap out of." It’s a health condition that deserves care, not judgment.

Left untreated, prenatal depression can affect both you and your baby. But there are effective treatments—therapy, support groups, and medication if needed. Talk to your doctor, midwife, or a perinatal mental health specialist.

Anxiety in Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also heighten anxiety—especially if you’ve experienced it before.

Signs of anxiety include:

• Persistent worry or racing thoughts
• Panic attacks
• Trouble relaxing or staying still
• Difficulty sleeping
• Muscle tension

If anxiety is interfering with your daily life, don’t wait. The earlier you seek help, the better for both you and your baby.

Where to Get Help

Support is just a conversation away. If you’re struggling—physically or emotionally—reach out to:

• Your GP or obstetrician
• A midwife
• A psychologist or mental health professional
• Perinatal mental health organisations or helplines

Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available. Seeking professional support is a sign of strength and will benefit both you and your baby.

You deserve care and compassion at every step of your journey.

Final Thoughts: Be Kind to Yourself

Pregnancy is a powerful journey of transformation. Some days will feel magical. Others may feel messy, uncertain, or exhausting. That’s all part of the ride.

💗 You are growing a human. That’s extraordinary.

So rest when you can. Nourish your body. Tend to your emotional health. And ask for help when you need it. In Shape Mummy is here to support you too—with trusted, nourishing options like the Pregnancy Superfood Health Shake that’s tailored for mums just like you.

You’re not alone—there’s a whole village cheering you on. You've got this.