What Do I Need to Know and Do in My First Trimester?
The first trimester can feel like a lot. Your body is changing, your emotions are everywhere and you probably have a million questions. Here’s everything that actually matters right now simply and honestly.
Here’s what we cover
- Your First Doctor Visits
- When to Call Your Doctor
- What to Avoid
- Managing Nausea
- Exercise
- Your Wardrobe
- Your Skin
- Your Emotions
Just scroll to what you are looking for, mumma!
Your First Doctor Visits
Confirming your pregnancy Your very first step is calling your doctor. They’ll confirm your pregnancy with a simple blood test.
Your due date scan Sometime between week 6 and week 11 your doctor will do an early ultrasound to confirm your due date and check how many babies are in there. 😄
Hearing the heartbeat Around week 10 your doctor may try to find your baby’s heartbeat using a small handheld device. If they can’t find it don’t panic because your baby might just be in a tricky position. An ultrasound is a much more reliable way to hear it.
Genetic testing Towards the end of the first trimester you’ll be offered some tests to check your baby’s health. You can choose a blood test alone which gives results around week 16. Or a blood test combined with an ultrasound that measures the back of your baby’s neck because this checks for conditions like Down syndrome and heart issues. Your doctor will explain the results and help you decide if further testing is needed.
Medications and vaccines Check with your doctor that any medications you’re currently taking are safe during pregnancy. It’s generally best to avoid most medications in the first 12 weeks. Small doses of paracetamol are usually considered okay but always check first. The flu vaccine is safe and recommended during pregnancy.
Choosing your doctor Around week 8 start thinking about which doctor or midwife you want to guide you through your pregnancy. It’s worth choosing someone you feel comfortable and safe with. 🌸
When to Call Your Doctor
Pain when you pee Could be a UTI which is very common during pregnancy. Get it checked.
Severe nausea If you can’t keep any food or water down and you’re losing weight or feeling very weak, please call your doctor straight away. This needs proper care and sometimes a drip in hospital to keep you hydrated.
Cramping A mild tugging feeling as your uterus grows is normal. But if the cramps feel worse than period pain call your doctor.
Bleeding A little light spotting early on can be normal. But heavier bleeding always needs a doctor’s attention.
What to Avoid
Alcohol Completely. There is no safe amount during pregnancy. It passes directly to your baby and can cause serious lifelong effects.
Recreational drugs including cannabis Completely. These are not safe during pregnancy.
Caffeine Limit to 300mg a day. Roughly two small coffees or three teas. Remember chocolate and energy drinks contain caffeine too.
The cat litter Cat waste can carry a parasite that is harmful to your baby. Ask someone else to change it. If you have to do it yourself, wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly straight after.
Harsh cleaning products Check the labels on your household cleaners. Switch to gentler eco friendly options where you can. They’re safer and the strong smells won’t trigger your nausea.
Exercise
Staying active in the first trimester helps with weight, sleep, mood and even prepares your body for labour. But keep it gentle.
Always tell your fitness instructor or trainer that you’re pregnant before any session.
Focus on low impact movement like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga or Pilates, light weights.
Avoid deep twists, lying on your tummy or lying flat on your back for long periods.
And always use the talk test. If you can hold a normal conversation while exercising you’re at the right intensity. If you can’t catch your breath to talk, slow down.
Your Wardrobe
Your regular clothes might start feeling tight early on, not because of your baby yet but because of bloating from pregnancy hormones.
A simple hack is to loop an elastic hair band through your trouser button hole and wrap it around the button. Buys you some time before you need maternity clothes.
By week 12 it’s worth investing in proper maternity trousers, stretchy tops and a new supportive bra. Your breasts will have changed a lot by now and a good bra makes a real difference to your comfort.
Your Skin
Hormones can cause breakouts during pregnancy. Use a gentle mild cleanser and try to keep your hands and hair away from your face.
Before using any acne products, even over the counter ones, always check with your doctor first. Some ingredients are not safe during pregnancy.
Your Emotions
Miscarriage anxiety Worrying about miscarriage in the early weeks is incredibly common. Here’s to reassure you that exercise, sex, dancing and eating junk food do not cause miscarriage. Once you reach the second trimester your risk drops significantly.
Ask for help Fatigue and nausea in the first trimester can be completely draining. Rest as much as you can and don’t be afraid to ask your partner, family or friends for help. You don’t have to do this alone.
Vivid dreams Waking up frequently at night from heartburn, a full bladder or restless legs means you wake up mid dream and remember them vividly. Completely normal.
Announcing your pregnancy Many mummas choose to share their news around week 13 when the risk of miscarriage drops significantly. So it is your call.
You’re doing something extraordinary mumma. Take it one day at a time.