You are pregnant. Congratulation as you begin the journey of parenting. This is an exciting time for many women. To first time mothers, there are wonders and experiences that lay ahead that one needs to know and be aware of. This will help them in the journey of motherhood and know what to expect. As the baby grows, there will be a lovely time, but also there will be a few hurdles that will have to pass. Below is some information about pregnancy and what one needs to know.

Trimester

Once one has found out, they are pregnant, the test has come out positive, they need to be aware that the pregnancy will ideally take a maximum of 40 weeks for baby to develop and grow ready to be born. This time is divided into three stages known as trimesters which is a total of 3. The first trimester is week 1 through to week 12, the second week 13 to week 27 and the third trimester week 28 to birth. Birth can happen anywhere between 37 and 40 weeks. In each passing stage, one’s body changes physiologically.

Visit the doctor

As an expectant woman, one is expected to visit the doctor on a regular basis. These visits are important for prenatal care. Choose a gynecologist that you trust and are comfortable with. Ensure not to skip the checkup as they help to gauge the health of the mother and baby. The mother to be will also be able to get necessary vaccinations that are essential for the health of the mother and developing baby. One is also able to share their families medical history and the doctor is able to get information that can help them prepare for any potential problems and put preventive measures.

Eat healthily

It is essential that one eats healthy. Yes, their will be cravings for certain foods. But a mother needs to eat a balanced diet. They should ensure they drink plenty of fluids and also have enough vegetables and fruits. One will also be given a dose of regular vitamins and supplements to take.

Be aware of danger signs

There are danger signs that the mother to be needs to be aware of. If one detects this signs, they need to see their doctor immediately. This will include:
• Bleeding
• Severe vomiting and nausea
• The baby’s activity level declines significantly
• Contraction that come early in the third trimester
• A headache that is severe, abdominal pain and swelling in the third trimester.

Prepare for babies birth

One needs to prepare for the birth of the baby. Have the necessary essential items that will be required. This will include clothes, a crib, mattress and beddings, nursing items like a breast pump and bottles.

Finally, have an exercise routine. This will help one as they prepare for birth as labor demands a lot of energy. It will also help alleviate pregnancy discomforts and strengthen once muscles to endure pregnancy pains.…