Shiva Krupa Polyclinic | Dr Aishwarya V Mathikatti

IN A NUTSHELL

Nausea, tiredness and mild cramps can be common, but heavy bleeding, severe pain, fainting or persistent vomiting need prompt medical advice.

Introduction

The first twelve weeks are exciting and often worrying. A planned early consultation helps confirm the pregnancy, review medicines and organise the right scans and tests.

SECTION 1

Which early-pregnancy symptoms are common?

Breast tenderness, tiredness, nausea, food aversions, frequent urination, bloating and mild intermittent cramps can occur as hormones change. Symptoms vary considerably and may also fluctuate from day to day.

Having fewer symptoms does not automatically mean that something is wrong.

SECTION 2

When should the first appointment happen?

Contact the clinic after a positive test so timing can be planned from the last menstrual period, symptoms and medical history. Earlier assessment may be needed after fertility treatment, previous ectopic pregnancy, recurrent loss, pain or bleeding.

The first appointment is timed to answer a clinical question—not simply as early as possible.

SECTION 3

What happens during an early scan?

An early ultrasound may confirm that the pregnancy is located inside the uterus, estimate gestational age, assess viability when timing permits and check for more than one pregnancy. A scan performed too early may need to be repeated.

An inconclusive very-early scan does not always indicate a problem.

SECTION 4

Which medicines and supplements matter?

Folic acid is commonly recommended, while the dose depends on individual risk. All prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements should be reviewed; do not abruptly stop essential treatment without medical advice.

Natural or herbal products are not automatically safe during pregnancy.

SECTION 5

Which warning signs need urgent attention?

Heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, high fever, breathing difficulty or persistent vomiting with dehydration require prompt medical assessment.

When symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek help rather than waiting for the next routine visit.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Questions patients often ask

Is mild spotting always a miscarriage?

No. Light spotting can have several causes, but any bleeding in pregnancy should be discussed so the amount, pain, gestational age and risk factors can be assessed.

Can I exercise in the first trimester?

Many women can continue appropriate activity, but intensity and restrictions depend on previous fitness, symptoms and pregnancy-related risks. Ask for individual advice.

What can help with nausea?

Small frequent meals, adequate fluids and avoiding triggers may help. Persistent vomiting, weight loss, reduced urination or inability to keep fluids down needs medical treatment.

When can a heartbeat be seen?

It depends on gestational age, ovulation timing and scan method. If a scan is performed very early, repeating it after an appropriate interval may be more informative.

When should you consult a doctor?

Seek urgent advice for heavy bleeding, severe one-sided pain, fainting, fever or inability to keep fluids down.

AT SHIVA KRUPA POLYCLINIC

Dr Aishwarya provides early pregnancy assessment, antenatal planning and clear guidance for each stage.

Book an appointment

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Most early symptoms are manageable, but knowing the warning signs ensures you receive help at the right time.