So, you’re pregnant! Congratulations!
From even before you know you’re expecting all the way through 13 weeks, you’re in the lovely first trimester of pregnancy. And by lovely, I mean, sometimes awful (barf, barf) … but truly a miracle nonetheless.
Through a few pregnancies I’ve found that focusing on a small, attainable to-do list has helped me survive – and even thrive – throughout the first trimester woes. After all, this trimester represents a whole third of your pregnancy … don’t let it fly by!
Choose a care provider
If this is your first, or even if you’re curious about other options, take time during your first trimester to interview a obstetrician, a hospital midwife, a birth center midwife, and even a home birth midwife. See who jives best with your birth preferences and needs; you won’t know for sure until you spend time with each.
Start taking prenatal vitamins
It’s best to take prenatal vitamins before you conceive, but it’s definitely a necessity once you get a positive pregnancy test. Consult your care provider about other supplements too – B6 can help with nausea and magnesium often aids in calming restless sleep.
Tell your close circle
I’ve always defaulted to sharing my special news with the same people who could support me through a loss.
Schedule initial appointments and ultrasounds
You’ll have your first 1-2 prenatal appointments during your first trimester and there you can discuss with your care provider if you want to pursue any early pregnancy tests. You may also have a first trimester ultrasound, although they are not required.
Buy Seabands
These anti-nausea acupressure bands were a lifesaver! Well worth the $8.
Sign up for emails
It’s fun to get daily/weekly emails sharing about baby’s development. In my current pregnancy I signed up with Ovia and have enjoyed those. The What To Expect app and Mama Natural’s communications are great too!
Rest … lots
Even though you barely have a bump, your body is most definitely pregnant and working overtime inside. Go to bed early, take naps, and generally slow down. And don’t feel the least bit guilty about it!
Decide when to announce your pregnancy
Plan a fun way to share the news with a photo or clever social media post. Some mamas share right away … and that’s ok! Other’s wait until 10 weeks, some 13, others 20 when they find out if baby is a boy or girl. Gauge what feels right for you and your partner.
Buy a comfortable bra
Breast tenderness is an early sign of pregnancy and you’ll very much appreciate a softer cup and looser band.
Start thinking about your budget
Babies can be an expensive as you want them to be. Start to assess or needs versus wants and start to save right away so you can space out necessary purchases.
Kick off your baby registry
Yes, it’s 100% ok to begin a registry in your first trimester. You don’t have to share it or begin your baby shower guest list, but you can definitely add items as you browse online and hear good recommendations.