Health concerns
Pregnancy can change your body in all sorts of weird and wonderful (and unexpected) ways. You may notice your vision becomes blurry due to the cornea (outer layer of the eye) becoming thicker. This is mainly due to fluid retention. Your skin may be drier and have more blemishes; drinking a lot of water will help to combat both of these issues.
Are there any symptoms you should be looking out for?
Headaches. It’s normal to suffer more in pregnancy, especially if you have previously had migraines. Rest is the usual cure, but if your headaches are very bad then a trip to the GP may be necessary.
Likewise with tiredness. Fatigue is absolutely normal in pregnancy because of your raised metabolic rate due to increased blood volume. It’s perfectly usual to be mind-numbingly exhausting, but it can also occasionally be a sign of something else, such as having an underactive thyroid gland, or other medical issues. So if your exhaustion becomes crippling then do see your doctor.
Safety first
It’s a sad fact of pregnancy that there are some foods which you are simply advised to cut out from your diet for the nine month duration. This includes, but is not restricted to, things like blue, or any unpasteurised, cheeses, pate, raw meat or seafood of any kind (so sushi and steak tartare are definitely out). Expectant mothers are also warned off pre-made supermarket sandwiches and to be very careful with salads. And of course alcohol is a no-no. There is often lively debate around this issue with many people claiming small amounts of alcohol in pregnancy are fine, but it’s safest to stick to a no alcohol policy.
Read our First Trimester Pregnancy Nutrition guide for more information on the best diet for you and your baby.
Important issues this week
If you haven’t already decided then now is definitely the time to start thinking about where and how you want to give birth. It may seem like a long way in advance, but deciding now gives you plenty of time to iron out the final details as you progress through pregnancy. For example, how long it takes to get to the hospital if you’re in a rush, or if you’re a high risk mum-to-be due to previous deliveries, age or a complicated pregnancy, then you are unlikely to be able to have a homebirth.
Keeping fit, staying healthy
You’re not quite through the first trimester yet so chances are you are still feeling tired and sick. If you can’t stomach the thought of a prescribed exercise routine, then simple fresh air is beneficial. Try and stay moderately active if you can through gentle walks or a relaxing swim.
Looking forward; planning ahead
Newsflash: babies cost money. It’s a good idea to start thinking now about having a rough savings plan to ensure that you can meet all of your financial needs, e.g. baby equipment and covering your maternity leave (if applicable). From 10 weeks you can also claim dental care on the NHS and free prescriptions. Depending on your household income you may also be entitled to Healthy Start vouchers.