FIRST TRIMESTER TO DO LIST + FREE PRINTABLE

We are sharing the first trimester to do list and a free printable PDF checklist to help you get started on this journey.

Well, if you are reading this post, you are probably pregnant. Congratulations! So what are the things you must do in the first trimester?

During the first trimester, you may not look pregnant, but you'll feel it for sure. You may have morning sickness, fatigue, aches and pain. Your body is working overtime getting ready for the baby and your hormones are on the rise.

The first trimester lasts through the end of week 13, so you have this time period to start setting the stage for a healthy and comfortable pregnancy.

Here is our first trimester to do list so you can start prepping for baby and accomplish the most important items that need your attention before you move on to the second trimester.

FIRST TRIMESTER TO DO LIST

1.START TAKING Prenatal Vitamins

The first thing you should do when you find out you’re pregnant is to start taking a good quality prenatal vitamin. It’s essential for baby’s development and for you as well.

Prenatal vitamins provide the higher levels of folic acid and iron that's required during pregnancy.

Starting on prenatal vitamins during your first trimester can help prevent neural tube defects in baby’s development. The iron in the prenatal vitamins helps your body make blood to supply oxygen to the baby.

You can buy prenatal vitamins over the counter from pharmacies or supermarkets.

2.FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH YOUR Insurance Provider and Coverage

Dealing with insurance companies is never fun but an important task to take care of.

On your first trimester to do list, needs to be the task of reaching out to your insurance provider to figure out the expenses that will be covered through your policy as well as the out of pocket expenses with regards to your pregnancy and delivery.

Also check with them about doctors that are in network.

3.Look For an OBGYN or midwife

Finding an obgyn that's in network and who you are comfortable with, is one of the most important items on the first trimester to do list.

That's right, during the next nine months you'll depend on this person to give you the best medical advice and guide you through the pregnancy and delivery.

So you want to find an health care provider with good reviews, recommendations, qualifications and great bedside manners.

4.ARRANGE YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT WITH THE OBGYN OR MIDWIFE

Once you've chosen an obgyn, then it's time to make an appointment to see the provider. It's best to get an appointment on the books as soon as possible, because it will probably be a while before you can get in to see the doctor.

5.Figure Out Your Medical History ( And Your Spouse)

Yet another item on the first trimester to do list is figuring out the medical history for both you, your partner and the family.

It helps to talk with both sets of parents to determine if there are any medical issues that need to be brought up with the obgyn.

You can also reach out to your family medicine doctor to get records to share with the obgyn.

6.COMPILE A LIST OF MEDICATION YOU ARE TAKING

You need to be careful about taking medicines, even over-the-counter ones. They may be harmful to your unborn baby.

If you are taking medications on a regular basis, make a list of these medications to share with your obgyn and pharmacist. Please have them look at it!

7.CHANGE ANY UNHEALTHY HABITS

The first trimester is the ideal time to get yourself on a healthy lifestyle to help your baby develop well and to prepare for a safe pregnancy.

So it's time to focus on making lifestyle changes such as quiting smoking if you are a smoker, giving up alcohol and coffee, sticking to a healthy diet and starting an exercise regiment. Of course, check with your doctor first.

8.START AVOIDING CERTAIN FOODS

Did you know that there are certain foods that you'll need to avoid during pregnancy?

Certain foods should only be consumed rarely, while others should be avoided completely.

Foods such as fish with high merury levels (shark, swordfish and mackeral) should be limited to 1-2 servings per month. Raw fish especially shellfish must be avoided because of the risk of listeria infections.

Also during pregancy, eating undercooked or raw meat should be avoided because it increases your risk of infection from several bacteria or parasites, including Toxoplasma, E. coli, Listeria and Salmonella.

9.gather morning sickness remedies

Nausea during the first trimester is very common and completely normal. More than half of women experience some degree of nausea and/or vomiting during this time.

For some of you, it could be a strong reaction to certain smells or tastes. For others, it’s periodic queasiness. But for some others, including myself
(with all three pregancies), it’s an overwhelming feeling that lasts all day.

So if you haven't already, stock up on some anti nausea remedies to help you through this time. Preggie pops, sea bands and drops flavored with a combination of ginger and lemon can help reduce nausea symtoms.

10.KNOW THE DANGER SIGNS

There are a few pregnancy symptoms that should set off alarm bells. Hence, it's important to read about the symptoms so you are able to spot it immediately and contact your health care provider.

Some of these symptoms include bleeding, cramping, swelling of feet, abdominal pain, fevers and blurred vision. 

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