Did you know that there are over 3,500,000 births each year in the United States alone? Every day hundreds of mothers navigate their various stages of pregnancy, working to bring new life into the world.
Particularly for first-time mothers, pregnancy is a unique and fascinating adventure. Understanding what to expect can help expectant moms feel more confident and prepared for this life-changing journey. Pregnancy can be overwhelming, so keep reading to learn what to anticipate throughout your first time pregnancy.
You Will Undergo Physical Changes
When you get pregnant, one of the first things you may anticipate is physical changes in your body. Bringing new life into the world can be extremely uncomfortable. When you are pregnant, your body will start to alter quickly as it gets ready to support and feed a developing fetus.
Throughout your pregnancy your breasts may become painful or swollen and you may suffer from exhaustion, nausea, vomiting, food cravings. These are just some of the physical discomforts that you may feel.
As your stomach starts to grow, you may feel the ache of back pain. Pregnancy-related changes to the body can put more stress on muscles and joints. These physical symptoms can be relieved by finding a place for a local prenatal massage.
Prioritize Prenatal Care
You need to prioritize your prenatal care. Go see your doctor for checkups, tests, and monitoring during your first pregnancy. These checkups will assist your baby’s doctor in monitoring your child’s growth and development.
In addition to routine screening for any potential health issues, prenatal care promotes healthy routines and lifestyle decisions. Many expecting first time mothers adjust their diet and routine.
Expect Emotional Changes
Pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster. When you are pregnant, your body produces a variety of hormones to support the fetal development. These hormones will expose you to a wide range of emotions.
First time mothers should be expectant of mood swings and increased stress levels. You can ease your pregnancy experience by taking strides to relax.
Prepare for Labor and Delivery
As your due date approaches, you want to prepare for the labor and delivery process. Many expectant mothers attend birthing classes and read up on breathing techniques.
You need to develop a birth plan with your doctor and partner. This will help you be prepared for when you go into labor. Your doctor can help you decide if a cesarean section or vaginal delivery is best.
Gear Up for Parenthood
First time parents need to stock up on the essentials for having a child. From setting up a nursery to purchasing baby gear and supplies, preparing for a baby is a major undertaking.
Be Prepared for First-Time Pregnancy
Preparing for motherhood is a thrilling experience. Knowing what to anticipate throughout your first pregnancy might make you feel more at ease and ready to take on this adventure.
As you get ready for motherhood you need to place a high priority on your physical and mental health. Seek prenatal care and get ready for labor and delivery.
