What To Do In The First Trimester Of Pregnancy

Finding out that you are pregnant is a very exciting time. It can also be a very busy time. Here is exactly what to do in the first trimester of pregnancy.

 

So You Have Your Positive Pregnancy Test

It’s an exciting time and your body is going through all sorts of changes right now and if you are anything like me you won’t be feeling your best. However, there are things that you need to be doing during the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy and decisions you need to be making.

 

Below is a list of things you need to do during the first trimester of your pregnancy. Things you need to decide, things you need to give up, changes you need to make and things to start thinking about. There are also some things to start doing to help make your pregnancy enjoyable and help you to make memories to share with your child in the future.

 

 

 

 

• Choose a healthcare provider and make your first prenatal appointment – It’s important that you choose a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. Ask friends or family for recommendations and think about what you will need from a health care provider so you can make an informed decision. Once you have made your first appointment make sure you have the date of your last period written down so your due date can be determined. Also take a list of any medications you are currently taking.

• Consider prenatal testing – During this trimester you will be offered various tests for your unborn baby such as the test for the risk of Downs Syndrome, various genetic conditions, and birth defects. Read up on these tests so you and your partner know your options and can make the best decision for you.

 

 

• Start taking prenatal vitamins – You and your baby need a lot of nutrients which will be extremely difficult to get through diet alone. Start taking prenatal vitamins right away. Folic acid is very important,  during the first trimester especially and taking iron will help prevent anemia and cut down the risk of an early delivery.

• Think about how and when you will announce your pregnancy – Many people choose to wait until the 12 week point when the risk of complications is lower to announce their pregnancy. This way a scan photo can be included in the announcement. While others just can’t keep it to themselves or like me have to inform work for safety reasons and find it impossible to keep quiet. Discuss it with your partner so you can decide which is best for you. There are many ways you can announce your pregnancy like T shirts, announcement cards, mugs or cute message boards for you or you older children to hold.

 

• Start to think about your birth plan – It’s never too early to start thinking about where and how you want to have your baby. Do some research on hospitals and birthing centres and you can discuss birth and pain relief options with your healthcare provider. The sooner you start to think about and discuss your options the sooner you can start making a solid birth plan that you are comfortable with.

 

• Quit cigarettes and alcohol – If you are a smoker you need to stop smoking right away. Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of an early birth, problems with the placenta, and miscarriage. Smoking can also slow down your baby’s growth and increase the risk of a still birth. It is also best to stop during alcohol completely when you find out you are pregnant. Even the smallest amount each day can increase the risk of your baby having a low birth weight. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can also increase the risk of your baby having developmental problems in the future. Such as problems with their speech and language.

 

• Cut down your caffeine intake – High caffeine intake has been linked to a greater risk of miscarriage so it is recommended to have no more than 200mg of caffeine per day. This is roughly one cup. You may find it easier like me just to cut out caffeine altogether.

 

• Avoid heavy lifting and hazardous chemicals – Be careful how you move and avoid lifting anything heavy. Make sure that all substances you come into contact with are nontoxic and safe for pregnant women. Do not come into contact with solvents, pesticides, or anything containing lead.

 

• Avoid foods that contain bacteria or parasites – During pregnancy it’s best to avoid sushi, anything containing raw eggs, unpasteurised cheese, meat that is undercooked, and any shellfish.

 

• Start taking bump photos – Have a photo taken of yourself every week on the same day. Face sideways and always stand in the same place. As much as possible try to wear the same clothing. This is a good way to watch your progress and is a lovely collection of photos to keep.

 

• Think about what you will need to buy for your baby – Most people wait until they are more than 12 weeks pregnant until they buy anything for their baby. What you can do in the first trimester is work out exactly what you will need to buy. Then you will have a list of everything you need with an approximate cost and you can budget accordingly. 

 

• Find a morning sickness remedy that works for you – There are many things you can do for the nausea and sickness that accompanies early pregnancy. Ginger can be very good as well as regularly sipping water. Morning sickness can strike at any time so make sure you are prepared. Read here for more information on how to deal with morning sickness.

 

• Start your pregnancy journal – It’s a great idea to write down your progress as it helps you to keep track of your pregnancy. It is also nice to write any feelings you have or any stories from your pregnancy you may have. This is lovely to look back on as it will be filled with a lot of special memories.

 

• Get regular exercise – Get regular gentle exercise, this will help get your energy levels up and reduce fatigue. Try some simple stretches, a short walk, or some prenatal yoga.

 

• Make sure you know your rights for maternity leave – Make sure you meet with you HR assistant at work to let them know that you are pregnant. You can also explore your options for maternity leave and make sure you know exactly what you are entitled to, and when your maternity leave can start.
•  

 

You might also like.

 

 What To Do In The First Trimester