What to Expect When You're Expecting!

What to Expect When You're Expecting: Tips and Resources

Whether you're pregnant, planning to be, or supporting someone who is, it’s an exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) journey. Here's a basic guide to what you can expect and helpful links to get you started.

Share with us your journey and any tips or thoughts you have on pregnancy and parenting!

General Tips for Expectant Parents

1.  Schedule Prenatal Care

• Once you have had a positive pregnancy test or think you may be pregnant then that is the time to make an appointment with your doctor, as soon as possible. They can be your first point of call for confidential and professional care and advice.
• Regular doctor visits ensure that your baby is growing properly and allows you to discuss plans, options and concerns.
• Tests to expect:
  • Ultrasounds (to monitor growth and anatomy)
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Glucose screening (to check for gestational diabetes)

2. Take Care of Your Health

• Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and prenatal vitamins (especially folic acid and iron).
  • Avoid: Alcohol, smoking, excessive caffeine, and unpasteurized foods.
• Exercise: Light to moderate exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help with stamina, mood, and delivery preparation.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated.

3. Learn About Labour and Delivery

• Research options like vaginal birth, caesarean section, or water birth.
• Take prenatal classes to prepare for labour, delivery, and postpartum care.

4. Prepare Emotionally

• Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings; don't hesitate to seek help if you feel persistently anxious or depressed (possible signs of prenatal depression).
• Involve your partner or support system in the journey—attend appointments and classes together.

5. Plan for Postpartum Life

• Research breastfeeding basics and consider lactation consultant resources if needed.
• Stock up on essentials: diapers, baby clothes, and postpartum care supplies for you.

6. Stay Informed

• Learn about pregnancy stages: trimesters, fetal development, and common symptoms like nausea or swelling.
• Keep an open line of communication with your doctor for any concerns.

Helpful Resources and Links

1. General Pregnancy Guidance

   • What to Expect (Official Site)
   • March of Dimes - Pregnancy
     
     

2. Nutrition During Pregnancy

   • Mayo Clinic - Nutrition and Weight Gain During Pregnancy
     
     

3. Prenatal Classes

   • Lamaze International
   • BabyCenter - Prenatal Classes Overview
     
     

4. Labor and Delivery Preparation

   • The Bump - Birth Plan Template
   • Childbirth Connection - Labor Comfort Measures
     
     

5. Postpartum Support

   • Postpartum Support International
   • KellyMom - Breastfeeding Resource
     
     

6. Apps to Track Pregnancy (easy to google lots of different apps))
   

   • Ovia Pregnancy Tracker
   • The Bump
   • BabyCenter