How to Survive the First Trimester of Pregnancy
Pregnancy is such a joyous time for expecting moms. From the “glow” you hear so much about and all the positive commercials and ads that show happy faces holding their dear baby bumps. But then, you’re pregnant and that glow is no where to be found and your finding yourself face down in a toilet every morning. Yes, I am talking about that first trimester that you are not fully prepared for; mentally or physically.
Pregnancy is different for everyone. Some women go through the first trimester without any negative side effects (and they have that glow we all want!), but for others, it can be a serious challenge to get through.
During the first trimester of pregnancy, which is the first three months of pregnancy, a lot is happening to both you and your baby. At this time in pregnancy, your baby is growing faster than he or she will at any other time in his or her life. Your body is experiencing some serious and rapid changes, so it’s no wonder you can be left feeling anything but glamorous.
From hormonal changes to physical body changes, the first trimester can be a rollercoaster of uncertainty and confusion for so many expecting moms.
My First Trimester
For me, I managed to make it to 7 weeks before getting sick, and that sickness lasted up until week 22. I felt fatigued nonstop and only wanted to spend my days indoors sleeping, which was a bummer during the peek of summer. I was quickly outgrowing my clothes but maternity clothing wasn’t fitting yet. I wasn’t having pregnancy cravings, only severe aversions.
I spent my time researching ways to feel better during the first trimester, and today I am sharing with you my top 7 ways to help survive the first trimester of pregnancy.
Congrats, Mama! Read on to feel better!
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1. Sleep Sleep Sleep
Your body is working in overdrive to help support your ever-growing baby, which can easily wear you out faster than usual. Not to mention you should be cutting down on or eliminating all caffeine, which can make you feel even more tired than usual – especially if you were an avid coffee or soda drinker. Solution: It is important to take advantage of naps when you can. No amount of sleep is too much right now.
2. Nausea Day and Night
About 70% of pregnant women will experience some degree of morning sickness – whether that’s just feeling queasy or actually vomiting. Don’t let the name fool you, morning sickness can strike at any time, leaving expecting moms feeling trapped in their day-to-day routines. Find ways to combat nausea throughout the day. Check out these 10 ways to help ease “morning sickness”.
And remember, sometimes mom’s lose weight during the first trimester because of sickness. It is totally normal but always talk to your doctor if you’re concerned.
3. Awkward Weight Gain
Although your growing bump may not be noticeable in the first trimester, you are still putting on weight. Weight gain can affect the way your clothes look and feel. The first trimester is a time where you outgrow your current pants, but maternity pants are still too big. Solution: Belly Bands, which help hold your current pants together until it’s time to transition to maternity clothing.
4. Hydrate The Both of You
Drink water! And then drink some more. And now drink some more! Seriously, stay hydrated for both you and your baby’s sake. Staying hydrated can help you feel better when you are seriously struggling with pregnancy exhaustion. Try flavored water if you can’t stomach the idea of plain water all day every day. I love flavored sparkling water — the bubbles certainly help with nausea, too!
I personally loved to use this Simple Modern bottle here, which kept water SO cold. There was something ridiculously refreshing about iced cold water when pregnant.
5. Continue Your Exercise Routine
As exhausted as you may feel, try to make a strong effort to stay active! Staying active can increase your energy levels — even something as simple as a 15-minute walk can truly help. It is always best to avoid any kind of contact sports and if you were not very active prior to becoming pregnant, its best to build up your activity level gradually. When in doubt, take a daily walk!
6. Eat
It can be difficult to push through nausea and eat, but this really does wonders! You never want your stomach to be empty at this time, it can only worsen the nausea you feel. Keep something light like crackers, dried cereal, a protein bar, or fruits and veggies nearby at all times. Lightly snacking all day can make the world of a difference.
7. Anxiety Relief
As soon as you see those two pink lines on the at-home test you can begin to feel anxious. It is totally normal, you’re growing a human for goodness sake! Hormone changes can drastically affect the chemicals in your brain, causing you to feel anxiety. Anxiety in pregnancy is extremely common, and pregnancy can typically increase any anxiety levels expecting moms felt prior to becoming pregnant. The important thing is to find ways to calm your anxiety.
Talking about it can be all the relief you need, but for other options, you can check out this list of natural ways to cope with anxiety in pregnancy. Remember, find what works best for you and your pregnancy!
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