First Trimester Checklist

Pregnancy is an incredible journey, and knowing what to expect along the way can help you feel more prepared and empowered. Here’s a checklist to help you through the first trimester - so you can stay on top of everything, one step at a time.

☑️ Book in with your GP - They will order bloods to confirm your pregnancy

☑️ Take a prenatal supplement - A folic acid supplement can help prevent neural tube defects (aim for a methylated folate over a folic acid as this is easier for your body to process)

☑️ Review your current medications - not all medications are considered safe in pregnancy, have a chat to your healthcare provider about what you are currently taking. You may need to look at reducing, removing or replacing your current medications.

☑️ Research healthcare providers - Learn about both private and public models of care, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to antenatal care. Find a provider that makes you feel comfortable and supports your preferences for pregnancy and birth.

☑️ Calculate your estimated due date - Your menstrual cycle can help establish this date and you may also have a 'dating scan' ultrasound to establish the gestation of your pregnancy. Remember that most baby's do not arrive on their due date and it is just a guess date!

☑️ Budget - It's a good idea to sit down and budget for all the things you will require for your baby and yourself through pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. You can start researching brands and prices to help guide your budget.

☑️ Connect with other parents - Having other's going through the same stage is so valuable. The reassurance that you are not alone can do wonders for your mental health.

☑️ Decide if you would like First Trimester Screening - this describes a group of tests designed to assess your baby's risk of chromosomal anomalies such as down syndrome. This screening is optional, you can discuss your options with your GP and decide whether it is right for you.

☑️ Nourish your body - Nausea and food aversions may be in full swing during your first trimester but it is still important to aim to eat nutrient rich foods to help support your body and your baby. Also aim for 2L of water each day.

☑️ Can I have coffee? Reducing caffeine intake is important in pregnancy so aim to keep your intake at 200mg a day (approx 2 cups of coffee). Keep in mind other beverages also contain caffeine.

☑️ Quit smoking, vaping and alcohol - this is very important as these activities can harm your baby

☑️ Start planning for postpartum - I know it may seem ages away but it is important to start thinking about what will happen after your baby arrives. Start having conversations with your partner and creating a postpartum plan.

☑️ Parental leave - have a look into your employers maternity leave plan as all policies are different. Make sure your partner has a look at their employer and checks what they are entitled too.

☑️ Share the news - There is no right or wrong way to do this, some people choose to wait until the second trimester or even further along in pregnancy. Feel free to do what feels best for you.

☑️ Save memories - Take photos, write a journal or record your pregnancy experience. These are moments that you can look back on for the rest of your life, and share with your child!

Most importantly...

Be kind to yourself - The first trimester is a major change, where some of the most important developments are taking place inside your body. Your body is working overtime to create life inside you. The hormonal changes that come with this can make you feel exhausted, emotional, nauseous and sometimes physically drained. Make sure you are kind to yourself and look after yourself too. Listen to your body and follow it's lead. Resting is very important in the first trimester.

The journey ahead is unique and yours to navigate at your own pace. For now, focus on taking small steps and giving yourself grace as you settle into this new chapter.

And remember, you’re not alone - I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.

If you would like more information on navigating early pregnancy. Check out my free guide 'I'm Pregnant! What Now?' for my complete guide to the first trimester.

All the best,
Tam xx