Oh Baby!
A First-Time Mom’s Survival Guide

Congratulations! You’re having a baby!

Pregnancy can be scary, especially the first time around. There is a lot to take in between trying to care for yourself and the tiny human growing inside you. But don’t worry! We’re here to guide you through the process so that you get the help and care you need every step of the way.

From First Appointment to Baby’s Arrival

There’s going to be a lot to remember from doctor’s appointments, changes to your body, and vitamins. Let’s break it down by trimester.

First Trimester (Week 1 – 13)

Doctor’s Appointments

  • About one visit per month unless you have certain risk factors such as age, weight, or preexisting health conditions.

Pro tip: Write down your questions before each doctor’s appointment to ensure you leave with all the information you need.

What to Expect at These Visits

  • Regular wellness checkup.
  • Pelvic exam to check reproductive organs.
  • Pap test (if due) to check for cervical cancer.
  • STI tests.
  • Blood tests for hormone levels.
  • Urine tests for bacteria.
  • Checking fetal heart rate through an ultrasound.
    • Some providers use transvaginal ultrasound to confirm pregnancy.

Doctors can usually detect the heartbeat by ultrasound at 6 to 7 weeks and by doppler at 10 to 12 weeks.

How you might feel

Your body is adjusting to pregnancy. Here are some of the most common symptoms you might be experiencing:

  • Sore breasts.
  • Nausea.
  • Mood swings.
  • Feeling tired.
  • Increased need to urinate.
  • Acne.
  • Shortness of breath.

Prenatal Vitamins

Your doctor will talk to you about what prenatal vitamins are recommended so that you and your baby are at your healthiest!

Pregnant women can get a variety of pregnancy support products through Women’s Health Services, including free prenatal vitamins!

Second Trimester (Week 14 – 27)

Doctor’s Appointments

  • Likely every four weeks or once a month, depending on risk factors.

These Appointments Include

  • Weight, urine, and blood pressure checks.
  • Monitoring baby’s position and heartbeat.
  • Occasional ultrasounds.

Increased hunger is a real thing, but that doesn’t mean you should be “eating for two.” Eating too much can increase the risk of complications. Talk to a medical professional about your recommended calorie intake during each trimester.

How You Might Feel

  • Increased hunger.
  • Bleeding gums or nosebleeds (from hormones).
  • Hemorrhoids.
  • Skin changes.
  • Nipple darkening.
  • Round ligament pain (discomfort in stomach, hips, or groin).
  • Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands.
  • Varicose veins (blood pooling causing lumps).
  • Stretch marks.
  • Higher chances of yeast infections or UTIs.

Discuss symptoms with your medical provider to make sure they have a complete understanding of your pregnancy.

Prenatal Vitamins

  • Continue taking those prenatal vitamins!

Third Trimester (Week 28 – Baby’s Arrival)

Doctor’s Appointments

  • From 36 weeks until labor, you will see your doctor once a week.

These Appointments Include

Everything from the second trimester plus:

  • Cervical exams.
  • Discussing labor signs and birthing preferences.

How You Might Feel

  • Mild contractions.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Urinating more frequently.
  • Heartburn.
  • Swelling in ankles and feet.
  • Varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
  • Difficulty sleeping.
  • Strong urge to prepare your home for the baby (nesting).

Prenatal Vitamins

Take prenatal vitamins until you go into labor. After that, you may switch to post-natal vitamins for at least six months to support postpartum recovery. Your doctor will provide information about what is recommended for you.

Prenatal Perks: Support and Community

Did you know there are tons of amazing resources available to support you during pregnancy that you might not even be aware of?

Classes and Workshops

  • Swaddling your baby.
  • Breastfeeding tips.
  • Techniques for managing labor.

Support Networks

Support networks for expectant moms provide an incredible sense of community, offering a space to connect with others who are experiencing the same journey and challenges.

Apps and Tools to Track Baby’s Growth

  • The Bump: 3D visualization of baby’s development.
  • BabyCenter: Customizable due date trackers and daily tips.
  • Pregnancy+: Detailed log for appointments, symptoms, and kick counts.
  • What to Expect: Weekly updates on baby’s size, helpful articles, and community forums.

Mission Baby: Determining Your Birth Plan

Having a birth plan is a great opportunity to tell your healthcare team your wishes for labor, delivery, and after the birth of your baby.

Birth Plan Considerations

  • Who do you want in the delivery room?
  • Do you want pain medication?
  • Do you want to move around during labor?

Delivery Room Settings

  • Hospital.
  • At home.
  • Birthing pool.

Note: While doctors will try to follow a birth plan, there is always a chance the plan may change to keep the baby and mother safe.

Plan in Advance

Planning ahead helps take some stress away when you are ready to deliver. Decide who you want by your side for support. This could be a:

  • Doctor – Oversees your pregnancy from a medical care standpoint.
  • Doula – Provides physical, emotional, and informational support during and after childbirth.
  • Birth Partner – Can be a family member, friend, partner, or paid professional providing support during labor.

Navigating Lifestyle Changes

Remember to take care of yourself – physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Listen to Your Body

  • Eat a balanced diet.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Exercise regularly – walking, swimming, yoga.
  • Avoid exercises that put too much stress on your joints or increase the risk of falling.

There is evidence that active women are less likely to experience problems in later pregnancy and labor.

Mind and Emotions

  • Take care of your mental health.
  • Participate in therapy.
  • Join a postpartum support group.
  • Journal or listen to calming music.
  • Ask for help from friends, family, and loved ones when you need it.
  • Do things you enjoy.

You’ve Got This, Mama!

Every mom has a unique journey and we’re happy to help you through yours. 

Expecting? Women’s Health Services providers/partners can connect you to the care you need, including pregnancy and postpartum support products and free prenatal vitamins. 

For help finding doctors or resources, check out: https://fhccp.org/womenshealthservices 

Have a friend or loved one preparing for pregnancy? Share this article with them!