Congrats, Mama! If this is your first pregnancy you may have questions, fears and concerns. There are some basic tips that need to be followed for a healthy pregnancy. What's safe to eat during pregnancy? Can I still have sex? How about changing the litter box? Let's dive in...
A typical pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. The weeks are grouped into three trimesters, each lasting approximately 13-14 weeks.
As you may be experiencing, significant changes occur during your first trimester, which spans from conception to week 12. Hormonal changes take place, and many women experience pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue, nausea (known as morning sickness
), breast tenderness, and frequent urination.
As your pregnancy progresses into the second trimester, which spans from week 13 to week 26, many women find relief from the initial pregnancy symptoms. This trimester is often regarded as the most enjoyable stage of pregnancy as your body adjusts to these changes. Your baby starts developing rapidly, and you may begin to feel the baby's movements. Your belly begins to expand, and your appetite usually increases.
Finally, during your third trimester, which spans from week 27 until birth, your baby continues to grow and develop. You might experience discomfort due to the increased size of your baby and the pressure on internal organs. Shortness of breath, swollen feet and ankles, and difficulty sleeping may become more prominent. Braxton Hicks contractions
, also known as false labor, may occur as your due date approaches.
Throughout your pregnancy, it is important to receive regular prenatal care, including check-ups, tests, and ultrasounds. Below we break it down with some easy peasy DO'S and DON'TS:
First Trimester Do's and Don'ts:
|
Do:
|
Don’t: ✘ Smoke/Vape or drink alcohol ✘ Eat foods that could harm you or your baby ✘ Change the Litter Box |
Second Trimester Do's and Don'ts:
|
Do:
✓ Keep up with doctor’s appointments ✓ Moisturize your growing belly & bod ✓ Consider pregnancy & parenting classes |
Don’t:
✘ Drink too much caffeine✘ Be afraid to have sex ✘ Take medication without your doctor’s go-ahead |
Third Trimester Do's and Don'ts:
|
Do:
✓ Engage in light exercise ✓ Stock up on baby supplies ✓ Familiarize yourself with signs of labor ✓ Start drinking a labor prep tea |
Don’t:
✘ Sacrifice sleep ✘ Try to lose weight ✘ Sleep on your back |
Fourth Trimester Do's and Don'ts:
|
Do:
✓ Use nap time to care for yourself ✓ Nourish your body with healthy foods ✓ Consider a parent & baby group ✓ After delivery use a Postpartum Belly Firming Cream or serum |
Don’t:
✘ Stress about routines ✘ Suffer in silence if you are struggling ✘ Compare yourself to other moms |
It is important to receive regular prenatal care throughout your pregnancy, including check-ups, tests, and ultrasounds. These appointments ensure you and your baby's health and well-being. Proper nutrition, exercise, and rest are also essential during this time to support the growth and development of baby.
