I’m pregnant!

Written By Amanda Gillis

Congratulations, mama-to-be! Embarking on the journey of pregnancy is an exhilarating experience filled with a whirlwind of emotions and physical changes. As you enter the first trimester, you're stepping into a crucial phase of development for both you and your baby. While it's an exciting time, it can also be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure about what lies ahead.

First Trimester: Weeks 1-12

FINDING A DOCTOR

  • Your success in pregnancy and delivery often is impacted by your healthcare provider. Be sure to do your research on what kind of birth you want and find a provider who is on board with your decisions. When you find the right match, be sure to call and get your first appointment scheduled. Feel free to switch providers if you aren’t “feeling it.” This person will be seeing ALL parts of you so you want to be sure you’re 100% comfortable.

  • You will have your first appointment around 8 weeks to confirm viability of pregnancy, estimated due date, and you should see that tiny little heartbeat!

BABY REGISTRY

  • Registering for a new baby can be VERY overwhelming. I suggest not even looking until you’re at least 12 weeks. I know it’s exciting, but let’s get through the first major hump of pregnancy and the time when miscarriage is no longer a major concern. When you’re ready, check out my newborn registry for my favorite and must-have items!

HEALTH

  • If you are not battling nausea (YAY!) I suggest focusing on protein and good quality, nutrient-dense foods. If you feel like you’re in survival mode and can only eat a few things if at all, don’t sweat it. Your baby is getting all the nutrients they need from you.

  • Movement is also great for the mind and body, particularly pelvic floor exercises. Start using an exercise ball for strength and mobility, and keep using it throughout pregnancy to prep for labor! My favorite resource for this is Dr. Lizzie, an incredible pelvic floor physical therapist. More on this later…

  • Remember, if you are not currently taking a prenatal supplement, omega 3, and vitamin D+K2, get on that!!

“MORNING” SICKNESS

  • Morning sickness is such a misnomer, because if you’re anything like me, it lasts all day and night :(

  • My tried and true methods for battling nausea

    • smelling/eating lemons or lemon in water

    • snacks all day long, avoid an empty stomach at all costs, bring food with you everywhere

    • keep crackers/pretzels in your bedside table and eat ASAP upon waking or in the middle of the night if nausea strikes

    • High carb foods- bagels, plain pasta, crackers, pretzels. String cheese can also be helpful

    • Unisom and B6 combo- this is an over the counter combination to fight nausea. Be sure to ask your doctor about this option, as well as Zofran or Diclegis

    • If possible, wake up a few hours earlier before you head to work. This allows you plenty of time in the morning to slowly get ready for the day. Often, the mornings are the worst, so if you give yourself time, you can take breaks when needed, get most of the barfing out of the way, and set yourself up for success

Your only job right now is to survive- relax, try to eat and stay hydrated the best you can, and don’t sweat the small stuff. Accept help when you need it and don’t worry about all the little things right now… there’s plenty of time :)

Amanda Gillis
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