There are a number of important things to do in preparation for the arrival of your new baby. Here are some suggestions of things to accomplish during each trimester to help your pregnancy go smoothly.
First Trimester:
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Write down the day of your last period. Or get as close to it as you can. You will be asked this question multiple times in the coming doctors appointments.
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Start taking a prenatal vitamin. Be sure to get one that has a lot of folate because it plays a very important role in helping your baby grow.
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Schedule your first Doctor's Appointment for when you hit 8-10 weeks.
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Start drinking lots of water and eating healthy. Include eggs and avocados into your diet.
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Buy stretch mark lotion. It is never too early to start using a stretch mark lotion or cream to help minimize those nasty marks later on in your pregnancy.
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Purchase a pregnancy pillow. This one is not mandatory, but trust me. You will want one!
Second Trimester:
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Prepare to buy maternity clothes and bras if needed.
- Learn the symptoms of preeclampsia.
- Start planning a baby shower and create your registry.
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Find out your baby’s gender if desired.
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Pre-register with the hospital that you want to deliver at.
Third Trimester:
- Get your baby’s nursery ready.
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Have your baby shower, and don’t forget to send thank you cards after!
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Count your baby’s kicks to make sure he or she stays healthy and active.
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Purchase items that you need/want that you didn’t receive at your baby shower.
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Pack hospital bags for you, the baby, and your partner.
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Relax and enjoy yourself before your precious baby arrives.
Preparing for your little one is fun, but it can seem stressful. Make yourself a checklist of to-do’s and get ahead of the game. Remember to make time and spoil yourself in the process.
