The first trimester can be both an exciting and scary time for any newly pregnant woman. It’s an important time and critical time in the pregnancy when the mother’s job is to focus on her health and the health of her growing child.
Our list of tips will help new moms get through these first 3 months and pave the way for a smooth rest of the pregnancy.
1. Find your healthcare provider
Finding the right healthcare provider, be it an OB/Gyn or a midwife, is vital to ensure you and your growing baby are healthy throughout your entire pregnancy. It is recommended that pregnant mothers see a healthcare provider once a month the first six months of pregnancy for prenatal care, so make sure you trust your doctor and he or she makes you feel comfortable. If you don’t have an OB/Gyn or pregnancy health care provider, ask your primary care physician, family, friends, or colleagues to recommend one.
2. Eat healthy and stay hydrated
According to the American Pregnancy Association, pregnant mothers must keep their bodies well hydrated as your blood volume increases to support two bodies. Consuming quality fluids is essential for both you and your baby’s health. It also helps prevent fatigue, constipation, and preterm labor. Pregnant mothers should eat healthy, nutrient-rich food throughout pregnancy. That’s not to say you shouldn’t give in to the occasional ice cream craving, but keep the leafy greens close by as well.
3. Budget for baby
Buying each and every fun and new thing for baby sounds great…and those tiny clothes are definitely adorable and tempting. But it’s important to set a budget for your maternity and baby needs. Borrowing items such as strollers or cribs, or accepting the generosity of friends and family, is a wonderful option. Try to stick to a budget – there can be plenty of surprise costs down the road.
4. Prenatal health
Without effective prenatal care, mothers face higher risk of encountering prenatal, childbirth and postpartum complications. Mothers who receive late or no prenatal care are more likely to give birth to babies with health ailments. In addition, be sure to ask your doctor or healthcare provider about what the right prenatal vitamin is for you. This is also time to think about your baby’s cognitive development. A safe, simple curriculum like BabyPlus Prenatal Education System has been shown to help your baby’s chances of being self-soothing, attentive, curious, and of reaching important infant development milestones in the strongest way.
5. REST
It is normal for newly pregnant mothers to feel fatigued. Go to bed early, take naps when you need them. You need more rest and sleep as your body changes to accommodate your growing child. Your energy is being used elsewhere – let your partner, close friends and family pamper you! You won’t have much time for sleep, peace, and quiet later on.
If you have questions on how BabyPlus can be a wonderful prenatal tool to encourage healthy prenatal cognitive development, let us know!