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Finding out you are pregnant is news that will change your life forever. While you are no doubt excited, first-time moms are often very nervous and unsure of what to expect in the coming months. Here are a few tips that will help you handle the next three trimesters with grace. Find a Good Prenatal Vitamin
One of the best things you can do for yourself and your child is to start taking a high-quality prenatal vitamin. Much like multivitamins, these products are designed to supplement the foods you eat and fill in any nutritional gaps you might have. Prenatal vitamins are packed with the vitamins and minerals mothers need to grow a healthy baby, including iron, calcium, and folic acid. Don’t Stop Exercising
Most new mothers know they are going to gain a few pounds, but that doesn’t give you a free pass to stop exercising. In fact, regular exercise becomes exponentially more important to your health and happiness when you are pregnant. Options such swimming and yoga can boost your mood, improve circulation, and keep you at a healthy weight. Pregnant women should aim for about 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Schedule Your Prenatal Checkups Early
You might have a few unscheduled visits to your doctor between the prenatal checkups, but most of your appointments should be planned out as soon as you know you are pregnant. Your first sonogram should take place between weeks six and eight, and then you will need a second ultrasound around week 13. If you aren’t sure when your next sonogram should be scheduled for, find out more here on sonography and what radiology is involved. Even though you only need one checkup per month during the first trimester, you will need at least one appointment every other week in the second trimester. During the last few months of your pregnancy, you should have one checkup per week. Start Writing Your Birth Plan
Many women have never even heard of a birth plan until they are pregnant with their first child, but these documents are extremely important. A birth plan essentially notifies the doctors and nurses of the mother’s wishes. If the mother is not able to answer questions for any reason, then the medical professionals will refer to the birth plan. These documents include information such as the position you would like to give birth in, procedures to avoid, who you want present, and any allergies you might have.
Parents often feel a rush of emotions during their first pregnancy, and that is why it is so important to take a few deep breaths and start planning out the next nine months carefully and methodically.