First Trimester

Soon after finding out you are pregnant, you are introduced into a world you never imagined. First trimester signs can be so frustrating and if you're a first time mum, the feeling is worse. I was fortunate, I didn't have morning sickness but uneasy evenings were common. Sore nipples, nausea, metallic taste, loss or gain of appetite, vomiting, spitting(God spared me that) and the most frustrating for me - smells are common characteristics of first trimester. Everything and everyone had bad odour, I was so grateful when this phase ended. For some other people, they are easily agitated and irritated during this phase while others can go through this phase without any of the signs listed here.

The good news is that, no matter how terrible you feel during the first trimester, it will pass and you will feel as though it never happened. In fact, you are most likely going to miss it especially if you are a first time mum because it was the only way you knew you were still pregnant. What's important is doing the right things which include eating well and right, taking your prenatal supplements prescribed by the doctor and attending your antenatal clinics. You should as much as possible avoid long journies except it is absolutely necessary and your doctor must certify you fit for the trip. You must also avoid indiscriminate use of prescription medicines.

 Here are a few tips to survive this trimester as a Naija mum:Pepper for nausea (Cameroon/Ghanian or whatever it is called where you stay worked for me); TomTom, chewing gum to control spitting; Bitter kola for metallic/bitter taste. Please do not use 'nzu' or calabar chalk or clay it isn't healthy. Drink water, use the ladies as the need arises(no 'holding' urine) and very importantly have access to your gynaecologist.

If there is any tip you know that isn't mentioned in this post, feel free to drop it in the comment box, remember, this site is all about the facts, myths, everything. PLEASE NOTE:ALL THE TIPS MENTIONED IN THIS POST HAVE NOT BEEN SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN AND THEREFORE CANNOT BE USED IN PLACE OF PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES PRESCRIBED BY YOUR DOCTOR.