You just found out you’re expecting, and now you’re wondering what to do when you find out you’re pregnant. Congratulations! This news can be exciting, overwhelming, and scary all at the same time. While it can certainly be a thrilling new experience you’re embarking on, we also know that it can feel intimidating, especially if it’s your first pregnancy.
Whatever you're feeling right now, know that you're not alone. Millions of women go through this experience every year, and each one has her own unique journey. As you embark on this new chapter in your life, the most important thing you can do is to take care of yourself and your growing baby.
In this blog, we'll share some practical tips and helpful advice so you can navigate this exciting and challenging time with confidence and peace of mind. It can feel intimidating at first, but we promise it doesn’t have to be. Let's get started, mama-to-be!
1. Share The News
Sharing your pregnant announcement with your loved ones can be an exciting and emotional experience. It's important to first share the news with your partner and allow yourselves time to plan and process together. Once you're ready, you can choose when and how to share the news with family and friends.
One aspect of sharing this news that can sometimes go overlooked during the beginning of your pregnancy is that the people you choose to share your news with become your support system. If you decide to be more private at the beginning of your pregnancy, consider who you want to include in the news so that you can have people to rely on.
Remember, the timeline for sharing this news should be on your terms and according to your preferences. Some women may want to wait until after the first trimester to announce their pregnancy, while others may want to share the news right away. It's entirely up to you!
Whether you choose to share your pregnant announcement in person or over the phone, make sure it's a special moment that you'll cherish forever. Some new parents love to go big with their pregnancy announcement, while others choose to keep it simple. Share the news in a way that is going to bring you the most joy!
2. Find a Doctor and Set Up An Appointment
One of the most essential steps in ensuring a healthy pregnancy is scheduling your first prenatal appointment with a doctor. This initial visit typically takes place around eight weeks after your last menstrual period, so don’t be alarmed if they don’t schedule you for later this week!
To set up an appointment, start by researching doctors in your area who specialize in obstetrics or prenatal care. Ask your friends and family who they recommend. Finding the right doctor is incredibly important! You want someone you are comfortable with and feel you can trust. If you visit a doctor and don’t feel like it’s a good fit, there’s no shame in trying another one.
3. Know About Your Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms, especially during the first trimester. It typically begins around the sixth week of pregnancy and lasts until the twelfth. It is characterized by feelings of nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. While it’s called “morning sickness,” this doesn’t necessarily mean that it won’t hit you in the late afternoon or in the middle of the night.
While the exact cause of morning sickness is not known, it is believed to be due to hormonal changes in the body. Each woman's experience with morning sickness can vary, with some experiencing mild symptoms that only last for the first trimester. In contrast, others may have more severe symptoms that carry on during the majority of their pregnancy.
It is important to stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals to help alleviate symptoms. The name of the game for combating morning sickness is to cater to your needs. As much as you can, try to relax and pamper yourself. Our Morning Sickness Box has plenty of goodies that are geared toward helping you through those bouts of nausea and fatigue!
4. Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
In terms of what to do when you find out you’re pregnant, know that Prenatal vitamins are essential during this time. While pregnant, you will require increased amounts of certain vitamins and minerals to support the growth and development of your little one. If you haven’t started taking prenatal vitamins yet, it’s time to grab a bottle and incorporate it into your daily routine!
Prenatal vitamins provide the necessary nutrients for you and your baby and help to prevent potential complications. Folic acid, for example, is a key nutrient in prenatal vitamins that has been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Prenatal vitamins also typically contain iron, which is critical for both the mother and your developing baby’s blood supply.
5. Track Your Symptoms
As a pregnant mama-to-be, it's important to track your pregnancy symptoms so you can stay on top of the health and well-being of both you and your growing babe. Keeping track of your symptoms can help you identify any potential issues or complications early on. It can also help you communicate more effectively with your doctor and help you to know what you need clarity on and what questions to ask.
To track your pregnancy symptoms, start by keeping a journal or notebook where you can record the symptoms you’re experiencing. This can include physical symptoms like nausea or fatigue, as well as emotional changes like mood swings or anxiety.
Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's important to listen to your body and communicate openly with your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have. By tracking your symptoms and staying in tune with your body's needs, you can help ensure a healthy and happy pregnancy for both you and your baby!
6. Find a Pregnancy App
Using a pregnancy app can be a total game-changer for expecting mothers. Whether it’s your first time being pregnant or not, these apps offer a wide range of features and can be a serious benefit for you and your baby.
These apps can help track important milestones, such as fetal development and weight gain, and offer tips and advice on diet, exercise, and prenatal care. Pregnancy apps can also provide a variety of tools, such as kick counters and contraction timers, to help monitor the health of the baby and prepare for delivery.
On top of that, some pregnancy apps offer communities and forums where mothers can connect with each other, providing a source of support and guidance. Using a pregnancy app can be a great way to stay informed and engaged throughout your pregnancy!
7. Assess Your Diet
As an expecting mother, it's important to take a close look at your diet during pregnancy. A good, intentional diet is a surefire way to support the healthy growth and development of your baby.
During pregnancy, your body will need additional nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, and calcium, to support the growth of your baby's bones, organs, and tissues. While your prenatal vitamins will help you get a lot of these nutrients, it’s wise to plan your diet out in a way that allows you to get these nutrients from your meals and snacks.
It's also important to avoid certain foods that can be harmful to your baby, such as raw or undercooked meat, fish with high levels of mercury, and unpasteurized dairy products. You may also find that there are some foods that your baby just doesn’t like, and you may need to stay away from them during your pregnancy.
8. Adjust Your Workout Routine
As an expecting mother, you may need to adjust your current workout routine. There are plenty of benefits that come from exercising during pregnancy! However, there are some workouts and activities that pregnant mothers should avoid.
High-impact exercises, such as running or jumping, can put unnecessary strain on your body and increase the risk of injury. Exercises that require lying on your back for extended periods of time, such as crunches or sit-ups, are also a no-go during pregnancy. Instead, low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and prenatal yoga can be a great way to stay active and healthy during pregnancy!
It's important to listen to your body and avoid any exercises that cause discomfort or pain. Your doctor can provide guidance on safe and effective exercises during pregnancy.
9. Cut Out Tobacco and Alcohol
As an expecting mother, it's important to prioritize the health and well-being of your baby. One major way that you can do this is by cutting out tobacco and alcohol. These can have harmful effects on your baby's growth and development and should be avoided during your pregnancy.
Smoking during pregnancy can also increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If you find yourself wondering what to do when you find out you’re pregnant, this is one of the very first adjustments that you will want to make.
10. Get Some Rest
Especially during that first trimester, but really throughout your entire pregnancy, prioritize getting some rest! Your body is doing amazing things, but growing a human can be exhausting. Don’t feel bad if you want to go to bed at 8:00 or take a little afternoon nap. You deserve it!
Treat yourself to some fun comfort items that are geared toward expecting mothers. Whether it’s a box full of pregnancy essentials or some cozy pajamas, prioritize taking care of yourself during your pregnancy.
11. Know What to Expect At Your First Appointment
So what can you expect at your first prenatal appointment? This is something that many new mothers anticipate because it can feel like the first official step in their pregnancy. But if it’s your first time being pregnant, it’s understandable that you’ll want to know what to expect!
While every doctor is different, and your experience may vary, most first prenatal appointments will include the following:
- A review of medical history and family history
- Physical exam, including checking your weight, your blood pressure, and a pelvic exam
- Blood and urine tests to check for any underlying health conditions or infections
- Ultrasound to confirm pregnancy and estimate due date (the most exciting part!)
- Discussion of a prenatal care plan and any potential risks or complications
- Discussion of healthy lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise
- Review of any medications or supplements that you’re taking
- Opportunity to ask questions or express concerns about pregnancy and childbirth
In order to make the most of your first appointment, you’ll want to be sure to write down any questions you might have for your doctor beforehand so that you don’t forget anything. There is no such thing as a bad question! Your doctor will be happy to answer any questions you have, and this is the time to ask them.
You’ll also want to consider who will accompany you to your first appointment. Whether it’s your partner, mom, or trusted friend, many expecting mothers appreciate having someone there to help them through the appointment and see that cute little baby during the ultrasound!
Celebrate Your Pregnancy With Sunflower Motherhood
From our team here at Sunflower Motherhood, we want to say congratulations! Pregnancy is a wonderful journey to embark on, and we are so excited for you and your sweet babe. We are passionate about supporting mothers both during and after pregnancy, and with a full line of pregnancy and postpartum boxes, you’ll find much of what you need to help make your pregnancy one to enjoy.
From your pregnant announcement to the birth of your baby, there is so much to do to prepare. If you need to know what to do when you find out you’re pregnant, know that Sunflower Motherhood has got you covered. Browse our selection today!
