Pregnancy week by week: what to expect in each trimester
Updated · 6 min read
Pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, counted from the first day of your last period, and is split into three trimesters. Here is what usually happens in each — always follow your own doctor’s advice.
First trimester (weeks 1–13)
- Register your pregnancy early with a doctor, health centre or ASHA worker.
- Take folic acid as your doctor advises — it protects the baby’s brain and spine.
- Nausea and tiredness are common. Small, frequent meals and rest help.
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol and any medicine not prescribed for you.
Second trimester (weeks 14–27)
- Many women feel more energy now. Gentle walks and prenatal yoga (with guidance) can help.
- Iron and calcium tablets are usually started; take them as prescribed.
- Your scans and blood tests check the baby’s growth and your health.
- You will usually feel the baby’s first movements between about 18 and 24 weeks.
Third trimester (weeks 28–40)
- Checkups become more frequent. Keep your hospital bag and documents ready by week 36.
- Get to know your baby’s usual pattern of movements, and tell your doctor if it slows down.
- Sleep on your side, rest your feet up, and eat smaller meals for heartburn.
- Plan transport to the hospital, and save the ambulance number (108 in most states).
Food during pregnancy
Eat a variety of home-cooked food: dal, green leafy vegetables, fruit, milk and curd, eggs or paneer, and whole grains. Drink clean water. Avoid raw or undercooked meat and eggs, and unpasteurised milk. You don’t need to “eat for two” — just eat well.
Go to the hospital straight away if you have
- Bleeding from the vagina, or fluid leaking.
- Severe headache, blurred vision, or swelling of the face and hands.
- Severe pain in the stomach, fits, or high fever.
- The baby moving much less than usual.
Pregnancy, week by week
GRP Aura’s pregnancy tracker shows your week, reminds you of checkups, has a kick counter and lets your partner follow along.
Try it in GRP AuraQuestions
How are pregnancy weeks counted?
From the first day of your last menstrual period, so you are about two weeks “pregnant” before conception. Your doctor may adjust the date after a scan.
When will I feel the baby move?
Usually between about 18 and 24 weeks; it can be a little later in a first pregnancy.
Can I exercise during pregnancy?
For most healthy pregnancies, gentle activity like walking is encouraged. Ask your doctor what is right for you.
General wellness information, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or take medicines, follow your doctor’s advice.
