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Month 1
-missed menstrual period
-other signs of pregnancy may not yet be noticeable -
Month 2
-breasts begin to swell
-pressure on bladder from enlarging uterus results in need to urinate more frequently
-possible nausea ("morning sickness")
-fatigue is common -
Month 3
-breasts become firmer and fuller, may ache
-nausea, fatigue, and frequent urination may continue
-abdomen becomes slightly larger. the uterus is about the size of an orange
-weight gain may total 2-4 pounds -
Month 4
-abdomen continues to grow slowly
-most discomforts of early pregnancy, suck as morning sickness, usually gone
-appetite increases -
Month 5
-enlarged abdomen becomes apparent
-slight fetal movements felt
-increased size may begin to affect posture -
Month 6
-fetal movements sensed as strong kicks, thumps, and bumps, some may be visible
-weight gain by the beginning of this month may total 10-12 pounds -
Month 7
-increased size may posture -
Month 8
-discomfort may result from increased size. backache, leg cramps. shortness of breath, and fatigue are common
-fetal kicks may disturb the mothers rest
-at the beginning of this month, weight gain totals about 18-20 pounds -
Month 9
-"lightening" felt as the fetus drops into the pelvis. breathing becomes easier
-other discomforts may continue
-a total weight gain of 25-35 pounds is typical
-false labor pains may be experienced