Pregnancy Symptoms

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey…

But it often begins with multiple physical and emotional changes that require proper monitoring and self-care—especially for first-time mothers. At Abha Surgy, we’re here to help you recognize and understand the early and ongoing symptoms of pregnancy, offering support at every step.

Whether you have conceived naturally or through IVF, symptoms are mostly alike for all to-be-mothers. From morning sickness and fatigue to mood swings, cravings, and more, these symptoms are important to observe. Let Abha Surgy be your trusted partner in this life-changing journey because every pregnancy is unique, and every mother deserves expert care.

Here are some of the Pregnancy Symptoms we recommend you should watch out for:

An illustration of parents holding their newborn

Pregnancy Symptoms Timeline

First Trimester

(Weeks 1–12)

DNA helix representing the first trimester

Key Changes

Hormonal shifts begin as the body prepares to support the baby.

  1. Week 1–2

    Pre-conception to ovulation
    • No symptoms yet (your body is preparing for ovulation and potential conception).

  2. Week 3–4

    Fertilization and implantation
    • Light spotting (implantation bleeding)
    • Mild cramping
    • Fatigue
    • Breast tenderness

  3. Week 5–6

    Week 5–6
    • Missed period
    • Nausea or morning sickness begins
    • Frequent urination
    • Mood swings
    • Food aversions or cravings

  4. Week 7–12

    Week 7–12
    • Continued nausea
    • Bloating
    • Constipation
    • Increased sense of smell
    • Emotional ups and downs
    • Visible fatigue

Second Trimester

(Weeks 13–26)

Fetal outline representing the second trimester

Key Changes

Body adjusts, symptoms may ease, and baby’s growth accelerates.

  1. Week 13–16

    Week 13–16
    • Morning sickness eases
    • “Pregnancy glow” (clearer skin, shiny hair)
    • Increased energy
    • Enlarging belly

  2. Week 17–20

    Week 17–20
    • Feeling baby move (“quickening”)
    • Backaches begin
    • Stretch marks may appear
    • Nasal congestion
    • Heartburn

  3. Week 21–26

    Week 21–26
    • Leg cramps
    • Swollen ankles or feet
    • Varicose veins
    • Shortness of breath (mild)

Third Trimester

(Weeks 27–40+)

Late-pregnancy outline representing the third trimester

Key Changes

Baby grows rapidly; mother’s body prepares for labour.

  1. Week 27–32

    Week 27–32
    • Frequent urination returns
    • Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
    • Trouble sleeping
    • Breast changes (may leak colostrum)

  2. Week 33–36

    Week 33–36
    • More fatigue
    • Pelvic pressure
    • Haemorrhoids
    • Difficulty moving comfortably

  3. Week 37–40+

    Week 37–40+
    • Nesting instinct (urge to clean/organize)
    • Cervix begins to dilate
    • Loss of mucus plug
    • Water may break
    • Regular contractions / labour