the stages of pregnancy first trimester (0-12 weeks) All the major organ structures are developing. The breasts start to swell and may become tender, as the mammary glands develop to prepare for breast feeding. Nausea and vomiting are common, especially in the morning, and usually persist for six to eight weeks. Urine is passed more frequently and there is often white discharge from the vagina, many women feel unusually tired during the early weeks. Some notice cravings for certain foods and body weight begins to increase. second trimester (13-28 weeks) From 16 weeks, the enlarging uterus is easily felt and the woman begins to look noticeably pregnant. The nipples enlarge and darken, and skin pigmentation may deepen. Some women may feel warm and flushed. Appetite tends to increase and weight rises rapidly. Facial features tend to become heavier. By 22 weeks, most women have felt the baby moving around. During the second trimester, nausea and frequency of urination diminish and the women may feel generally better and more energetic. The heart rate increases, as does the volume of blood pumped to the heart, to allow the fetus to develop properly. third trimester (29-40 weeks) In some women, stretch marks develop in the abdomen, breasts and thighs. A dark line may appear running from the umbilicus to the public hair. Many women become hot and sweat easily, as body temperature rises slightly. More rest may be needed at this stage. The baby’s head drops down low to the pelvis around the 36th week in a first pregnancy, but not until a few weeks later in subsequent pregnancies. This “lightening” may relieve pressure on the upper abdomen and on breathing, but increases pressure on the bladder and may result in more vaginal discharge. If there is breech presentation, moxibustion can be used to help turn the baby.