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Light spotting in the first trimester is common — it happens in 15-25% of pregnancies and is usually caused by implantation bleeding or cervical sensitivity. However, heavy bleeding with clots, severe one-sided pain, or dizziness are emergency warning signs that need immediate medical attention.

The third trimester comes with bizarre but normal symptoms like lightning crotch, forgetfulness, vivid dreams, breathlessness, and round ligament pain. Most are caused by your baby's growth, hormonal shifts, and your body preparing for labor — annoying but not dangerous.

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, painless-to-mild, and stop with rest or hydration — they're your uterus practicing for labor. Real contractions are regular, get progressively stronger, and don't stop no matter what you do. Use the 5-1-1 rule: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for 1 hour.

The real risks during pregnancy are raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs; high-mercury fish; unpasteurized dairy and juice; and deli meats unless heated until steaming. Many common fears are myths — cooked sushi, coffee under 200mg, and pasteurized soft cheeses are all fine. Alcohol is the only true zero-tolerance item.