Pregnancy in Singapore: What No One Tells You About the First Trimester
You're pregnant — congratulations! But before the excitement fully sinks in, the first trimester hits like a wave. Everyone talks about the baby bump and cute onesies, but few mention the part where you feel constantly nauseous, emotionally overloaded, and quietly Googling every new symptom.
If you're in Singapore and just found out you're expecting, here's the real story about what to expect in your first 12 weeks — the good, the bad, and the totally unexpected.
1. Morning Sickness Is Misleadingly Named
Many mums-to-be assume morning sickness only strikes... well, in the morning. But for most, it lasts all day. The humid Singapore weather doesn't help either. Some women also experience heightened sensitivity to smells — from hawker centres to MRT passengers.
Tip: Keep dry crackers in your bag and consider sipping isotonic drinks (like Pocari Sweat) to stay hydrated.
2. Your OB-GYN Appointments May Start Earlier Than You Think
In Singapore, many women schedule their first OB-GYN appointment between week 6 and 8. Private clinics can be pricey, but they often offer shorter wait times and personalised care. Government hospitals like KK Women's and Children's Hospital also provide excellent packages for subsidised care.
Bonus tip: Some clinics require advance booking even at this early stage — don't wait till the last minute!
3. You Might Feel More Anxious Than Happy
It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, scared, or even indifferent during the first trimester. Hormonal changes, morning sickness, and fear of miscarriage can dampen initial excitement.
You're not alone. Many Singaporean mums say they only began to enjoy their pregnancy after the first trimester ended.
4. You'll Need to Keep It a Secret — While Feeling Terrible
Because the risk of miscarriage is highest in the first trimester, many couples wait until after week 12 to share the news. This means hiding your symptoms at work, skipping social events, and faking excuses when you feel absolutely awful.
Pro tip: Tell a trusted colleague early on so you have some backup if you need sick leave or a last-minute escape from a company dinner.
5. You Might Be Told What You Can't Eat — A Lot
Friends, relatives, and even strangers may suddenly become pregnancy diet experts. Sushi? No. Pineapple? Avoid. Cold drinks? Controversial. While some advice is well-meaning, it can feel overwhelming.
Check with a reliable source like your OB-GYN or the HealthHub.sg website for up-to-date guidance.
6. The First Scan Will Change Everything
At around 6–8 weeks, your first ultrasound may reveal the baby's heartbeat — and suddenly everything feels real. Most private clinics will print out a copy, while public hospitals may upload it to the HealthHub app.
7. Your Body Is Changing More Than You Realize
Even before the bump appears, you may feel bloated, constipated, exhausted, or experience sore breasts. It's a full-body experience that often doesn't look like what people expect “pregnancy” to look like.
Final Thoughts
The first trimester is often the hardest and most emotionally draining phase of pregnancy. But it's also the start of something incredible. Be kind to yourself, ask for help when you need it, and trust that better days (and stronger kicks!) are coming soon.
You've got this, mama.
It takes a village to raise a child !
Join our Facebook group Preschools & Kindergartens in Hong Kong to interact with other parents.
