There is a lot to do on your plate, because a first pregnancy always adds lots of questions to your mind, like baby’s arrival plan, shopping, baby’s essentials, and many more. If this is your first pregnancy and you live in Jaipur, Cradle Children’s Hospital can be your go-to place to get guidance from professionals. Of course, the supplies and essentials might surprise you, but here is the complete checklist for expectant mothers.
What Are The Things That First-time Mothers Should Consider?
Financial planning- Having a baby comes with unimaginable happiness, but it also comes with an expensive affair that needs planning. Diapers, clothes, healthcare, and your suppliers will also be included in this.
Mother’s wellness- Most of the time, mothers forget to take care of themselves, which leads to post-partum depression. But doctors advice mother to take care of themselves also, as their mindset and emotional quotient directly impact the baby’s development. Because the more you take care of yourself, the more you can manage postpartum, which makes your life easier to handle motherhood.
Practical consideration- Don’t fall for things that are trending in the market. Instead, gear up the essential which suits your baby’s needs. Most importantly, always take advice from a gynecologist like Cradle Children Hospital.
First Trimester
Changes expected
The baby starts to develop the essential organs and spinal cord, and body supports through hormonal fluctuation, placenta, amniotic sac, and maternal changes like increased blood volume, fatique and frequent urination.
Checklist
- After confirming your pregnancy, you need to start making changes to ensure your and your baby’s health.
- Visit tursted gynecologist like Cradle Children Hospital for guidance, because the body will start to show several changes that need support as well.
- Every 6 to 8 weeks, make sure to schedule your antenatal checkups. Keep that in mind, these checkups are crucial to know the growth of the baby.
- Your gynecologist will suggest that you start taking folic acid and prenatal supplements.
- Some foods or smells might trigger nausea, so keep track of those items.
Guidelines
- From the beginning of pregnancy, it is advised to start eating a healthy and nutrition-rich diet, as good food supports your body and the development of the baby. Due to frequent urination, you may dehydrate yourself; that is why you should drink plenty of water, even after pregnancy.
- Regular screening tests like ultrasound and blood are crucial to know about any chromosomal abnormalities.
- Remember, fatigue is common in pregnancy, so take as much rest as you can.
Second trimester
Changes expected
Your body changes become more evident by this time, and you might experience movement of your baby. Skin pigmentations and stretch marks become visible, while nausea reduces, and your energy level will be improved. As your baby is growing and your body is using more energy than usual to support the changes, increasing your appetite, so make sure to enjoy this phase.
Checklist
- First thing is to never miss your prenatal check-ups and visits to track fetal growth and maternal health.
- An anatomy ultrasound needs to be done between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- If you are comfortable, then start childbirth classes to gain knowledge and understand more about the whole journey.
- Engage in exercises for strength and good blood circulation, but make sure to do with safety or under guidance.
- To reduce stretch marks, you can use moisturizing cream or jelly.
- Keep track of your weight and blood pressure.
- Never miss your medications and supplements, because there is no place for negligence.
Guidelines
If you are engaging in strength exercises, ensure to do so under a trainer’s guidance. One more thing that mothers-to-be ignore is to wear breathable maternity clothes. Also, wearing a tight bra can lead to plugged milk ducts, mastitis, and potentially impact milk supply due to pressure on breast tissue.
Third Trimester
Changes expected
Now your baby is gaining weight, and it started to put pressure on your organs, which can cause shortness of breath, and you may experience frequent peeing. Cervical changes like labor, cervix softness, and contraction prepare the body for labor.
Checklist
- Increase your antenatal visits, because you require more checkups than usual.
- Kindly ensure to take the vaccination on time, because this will keep your child safe.
- Start preparing your bag for the hospital.
- Discuss birth plan, delivery options, and medications with your gynecologist.
Guidelines
- Eat and drink properly, because your body needs more food now.
- Practice exercises and breath technique, as these can help to ease your labor pain.
- Monitor your baby’s movement, and if you feel anything unusual, then talk to your doctor.
Hospital Bag
– For mother
The bag should include a medical file, all the documents like insurance papers, ID proofs, take comfortable maternity wear (loose clothes, shawl, nursing bra, and light sweater), toiletry essentials, and personal essentials.
– For baby
For your baby, make sure to carry cotton and soft clothes so that their body is not prepared to handle rough clothes. Diaper, wipes, blanket, and swaddle are some of the essentials that you need to carry. We all have to accept that breastfeeding can be uncomfortable if the right essentials are not used. Nursing bras, pillows, breast pads, burp cloths, and a manual breast pump (optional) are some of the things that should be added to your checklist.
FAQs
What is the best time to prepare for a hospital bag?
You can start preparing after 28 weeks of pregnancy, as it will keep you engaged and handle your excitement as well.
What are the crucial things to keep in mind for expectant mothers?
The most important thing is diet. Try to eat healthy, even in the time of cravings, because anything a mother eats directly impacts the growth and development of the baby. It should include protein, calcium, folic acid, fiber, fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and dairy products.
Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
If the exercises are practices safe environment and done by considering all the precautions, then it is good for you and your baby also.
How to access the best gynecological services in Jaipur?
Cradle Children’s Hospital is one of the most trustable hospital who provide quality services by top-class professionals.
What are the signs that need medical attention?
Severe abdominal pain, bleeding or spotting, vomiting, high fever, sudden swelling, and reduced baby movement. These signs should not be ignored.
Are all the baby products safe for my baby and age-appropriate?
Due to news about baby products and the harmful brands raises questions about mothers’ choices. So if you are exploring the products, make sure the brand is following the recent safety standards and adhering to the rules related to the composition of products, ensuring safety for the baby. Also, age-based products are also there, because newborns are most vulnerable in comparison to 6 6-month-old or a year-old baby.
What will I use in the first few months?
Make sure not to fall for those expensive routines; instead, stick to the infant must-have items, which are practical and within your budget. Because sometimes, even an expensive one can turn the tables.
Conclusion
The pregnancy journey is filled with emotions, physical changes, and a lot of care. But in that time, women tend to forget to focus on the things that can ease their pregnancy. Let’s start with care for herself, and diet. Mother’s health directly impacts the development of the baby, so if you or someone you know is expecting a baby, then make sure to keep their health on top. Also, every trimester comes with different changes in the body, which require changes in lifestyle also. But most importantly, eating a healthy diet, indulging in exercise, taking medications on time, and prioritising mental health are some of the areas where there is no place for negligence.
Apart from that, if you are looking for expert help in Jaipur, then Cradle Children’s Hospital can be your best choice. Their professional staff, advanced technology, and range of services ensure the provision of top-notch results.
Contact and book your appointment!
