I believe in order to enjoy pregnancy, one has to know what to expect and anticipate the change that is going to happen in the next 9 months. In this series on how to remain chill and enjoy your pregnancy, I’ll break it up to 3 parts – the first, second, and third trimester.

The Announcement

Welcome to the first semester! Yay! You just found out you are pregnant, but you can’t tell anyone yet. At least that is how my Chinese culture makes you think it is taboo to tell anyone now because there is a higher chance or miscarriage during this time. I say screw it! I am excited and I’m telling everyone! It is not like telling people actually increase the chance of miscarriage. If, and a big IF that happens, I’ll be the one who is most disappointed. I won’t have time to consider what others might think. 

The first doctor visit

Get an appointment as soon as you find out you are expecting. I found out when I was about 4 weeks pregnant, so I had to wait another 4 long weeks before any ob-gyn wants to see me. They generally schedule the first visit only after 6 weeks. Do some research on which hospital or ob-gyn you want to see. Go to mothers forum in your city or ask for friend’s recommendation.

My first visit was nerve racking. I had no idea what to expect. And I was worried if I was really even pregnant in the first place. But don’t worry, although it may be kind of long, it’s nothing to stress about. Here is a few things to expect:

• My first visit took about 2 hours, so make sure to schedule out a good chunk of time.
• It is a bit like an interview with the doctor. At the first visit, we talked for quite awhile, about everything. From health and fitness to occupation to clubbing. If you have any questions, be sure to bring them up. You’ll also get your weight checked, blood pressure checked, and have to take a urine test — typical for every upcoming visit. 
• Sample of your blood will be taken to check for Hepatitis, Aids and other illnesses. 
• You’ll be likely given information about certain genetic tests that can be done. 
• First ultrasound! You’ll get the first glimpse of your little one. This was definitely my favourite part and the very reason I look forward to our monthly appointments.

Take care of yourself


You are responsible for another human being now, and everything you do to your body while pregnant is going to affect a growing child. Kind of a big deal, right? Well, having a good start to your pregnancy specifically during the first trimester is essential. If you haven’t started taking prenatal vitamins, start now. Your doctor will probably prescribe you some. I took prenatal vitamins, calcium tablets and fish oil.

You will feel very sleepy all the time. So sleep whenever you can. Believe me, once your baby arrives, you’ll wish you had slept when you had the chance. The first trimester usually isn’t too bad wise because you don’t have a big belly in the way!

Eat healthily. Yes, you are allowed to give in to your cravings now and then. However, don’t fall into the mindset that you are eating for two — because growing babies don’t have the same nutritional needs as a full-grown adult. During the first semester, you don’t need any extra calories yet, assuming you started your pregnancy at a normal weight. Not sure what to eat? Check out this post.

Pamper yourself! I don’t think there’s any better excuse to pamper yourself than when you are pregnant. Give yourself a manicure, get a pedicure or even a facial.  Be careful about getting a massage or going to the spa. It is generally not recommended during the first trimester.

Exercise

Symptoms

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