Congratulations on the wonderful news! Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful times in life, bringing joy as well as many questions. What awaits you in the first weeks, and what steps should you take to help your pregnancy go smoothly and with less stress?
Get your pregnancy confirmed by a doctor
Even though a home pregnancy test shows you are pregnant, your first step should be a visit to a gynecologist. They will confirm the pregnancy and carry out all important examinations. You will learn how your pregnancy is progressing and get an estimated due date. The doctor will also confirm that the embryo has implanted properly in the uterus and rule out an ectopic pregnancy. You will also find out when your next visits and tests will be. We highly recommend sharing your current lifestyle and discussing what you can and cannot do.
Other signs that may signal the start of pregnancy include:
- Missed period.
- Elevated temperature around 37°C.
- Breast tenderness and enlargement.
- Fatigue, sleepiness, headaches, mood changes, a heightened sense of smell.
- Changes in taste, nausea, vomiting.
- More frequent, sometimes painful urination.
- Hyperpigmentation on the areolae or on the face.
Adjust your lifestyle
Your lifestyle has a big impact on the health of both you and your baby. It’s time to start eating healthier—especially fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish—along with other healthy fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber. It’s advisable to limit caffeine and, of course, avoid alcohol and smoking. Start taking prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid, which is essential for your baby’s healthy development. Try to get plenty of sleep and allow yourself to slow down and rest.
Learn to manage pregnancy symptoms
Morning sickness, fatigue, and breast tenderness are common early in pregnancy. Find out how to manage them so you feel as well as possible. Give yourself enough rest, stay hydrated, and eat small, frequent meals. Try adding to your diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are good choices. It’s also helpful to eat plenty of protein such as chicken, peanut butter, and beans. Snacking is recommended—keep cookies, ladyfingers, or salty crackers on hand. Prepare a little something by your bedside so you can eat it before getting up.
If you’re often nauseated, try ginger lollipops or processed cheese triangles; ginger helps ease nausea and processed cheese can help settle the stomach. Be extra kind to yourself during this time and treat yourself so you feel good. If your pregnancy allows it and you’ve consulted your doctor, you can also exercise lightly. We especially recommend visiting a massage studio for a prenatal massage.
Inform your employer
It’s clear that you’ll first tell your partner the happy news. Over time you’ll share it with your family and close circle, too. We recommend telling only a small circle of your closest people at first. After the end of the first trimester, you can inform your wider family and friends. This is often done because of possible complications early in pregnancy. It’s then easier to share updates with just a few people and not have to explain everything to everyone around you.
In addition, think about how you’ll share the news at work. We recommend deciding in advance how long you plan to take for parental or maternity leave. Timely notice to your employer (usually after the first trimester) will allow you to prepare the ideal conditions for your work environment together. You’ll have more room to plan maternity leave and to adjust your job duties if needed. It’s also good to start discussing practical matters at home, such as your future financial situation, who will be on leave with the baby, and so on.
Prepare for your baby’s arrival
There’s nothing stopping you from slowly getting familiar with what lies ahead and what your baby will need. Choosing quality, safe toys, gear, and other essentials such as strollers, car seats, or cribs is an important part of preparing for this new stage of life. If you’re not sure what to buy and in what quantities, you can find inspiration in various lists online.
Above all, give yourself time, seek recommendations from people around you or from your parents, and delight in all the adorable things—especially the tiny clothes.
Enjoy every moment
The start of pregnancy can be demanding, but it’s also a beautiful life stage full of joy and anticipation. Get informed, prepare, and savor this special time. If you feel unwell or feel like you’re losing yourself, talk to your doctor. This period will end one day, and you’ll look back on it.