The first month of pregnancy is s actually your period until you ovulate. If you want to calculate your pregnancy due date then calculate from the first day of your last normal period (LMP). Conception usually occurs within 24 hours of ovulation, about 14 days before the start of your next period.

Your Baby

For the first 8 weeks of pregnancy your developing baby is quite small and is called an “embryo.” Tiny limb buds,    which will grow into arms and legs, appear. At this stage heart and lungs begin to form. By the 25th day of the pregnancy heart starts to beat. Doctor’s at this stage ask to get the first ultrasound to hear the baby’s first heartbeat. Also at this stage neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord, begins to form. At end of first month, embryo is about 1/2 inch long and weighs less than 1 ounce.

Your Body

As the pregnancy begins, the pregnancy symptoms also begin to show. The first sign of course is you miss your periods. Your body has now started making hormones needed for the growth of your baby. Your breasts have started to grow and may feel a bit sore. Many women suffer from morning sickness. Also you may have different food cravings or suddenly hate foods that you relished. You are also likely to urinate more often because your growing uterus is pressing on your bladder.

Prenatal Care Guide

In the first month of pregnancy all women are put on folic acid and some multivitamins like Vitamin B. folic acid plays an important role in reducing the risk of birth defects of the brain and spine and it’s suggested to start on folic acid as you plan your pregnancy. It’s important to visit your doctor as soon as your pregnancy test comes positive. Also avoid any kind of addictions like smoking, drinking etc.