The course of pregnancy

Over the course of your pregnancy, you will experience nine months of changes. You’re growing a baby and your body changes in the process. Your well-being and emotions may also go through different phases. Fortunately, there are midwives, doctors and nurses who can help you through this intense time. They will look after your health issues and support you with organisational challenges. Even if you encounter financial problems or in psychologically stressful situations, a large network of advisors is at your side if you need help.

The first trimester is the period from the 1st to the 13th week of pregnancy. This time is very stressful for many pregnant people. Your body changes under the influence of various hormones. Many pregnant people experience discomforts and emotions can be roller coaster ride. All the baby's major organs are formed at this stage. The heart starts to beat and the brain and nervous system form. You will see the developing baby for the first time between the 9th and 12th week of pregnancy at your first ultrasound examination. You should know that the first few weeks after fertilisation are critical. 80 percent of all miscarriages occur during this sensitive period. The further the pregnancy progresses, the lower the risk becomes. By the 15th week of pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage is only one to three percent.

The second third of pregnancy is called the second trimester. It covers the period from the 13th to the 24th weeks of pregnancy. Most people find these middle months of pregnancy to be a more relaxed time. They often feel relief due to the significantly lowered risk of premature birth and they also feel physically fitter and mentally more stable.

The last third of pregnancy is called the third trimester. It covers the period from the 27th week of pregnancy until birth. Many pregnant people enjoy this phase. However, you may feel restricted by your weight and by your belly. You may also experience new pregnancy symptoms.

Sometimes pregnant people suspect early on that there is more than one baby on the way. For example, severe morning sickness may be a sign of a multiple pregnancy. Your doctor will tell you for sure how many babies you are expecting. A multiple pregnancy can be clearly detected during the first ultrasound examination. A distinction is made between identical and fraternal twins. The pregnancy usually proceeds in the same way in both cases. But it is important to find out if the fetuses share a placenta. This is only readily apparent in early pregnancy. For this reason, gynaecologists recommend that the first ultrasound examination should be carried out between the ninth and twelfth week of pregnancy.

Pregnancy brings with it lots of new things for all expectant parents. If you're under 18, there are probably quite a few more questions. There are, of course, also some aspects of pregnancy specific to you that should be considered. There are several counseling centres you can turn to for help with your decisions and planning.