First Trimester Pregnancy Checklist NZ

Finding out you are pregnant can be exciting, terrifying, and overwhelming all rolled into one.  It's the start of an amazing journey that will change your life forever and for the best, in my opinion.  

As a mum of four, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of pregnancy, mainly highs. It’s a journey from start to finish with an amazing little person to meet at the end. There’s so much to think about along the way so I’ve put together a very easy guide for each trimester to get you started, just as a general guide.

My best advice, whether it’s your first or your fourth, is to enjoy every day. Try and enjoy each stage for what it is (even the dreaded morning sickness) It really does go by very quickly and if you are like me, you will miss that feeling of your baby kicking you from the womb.

First Trimester NZ: The Essential NZ Pregnancy Guide for Kiwi Mums in Their First Trimester

1. Find a midwife and arrange your first appointment. It's important to find someone you feel comfortable with and like. 
2. Take a daily folic acid supplement. Very important in the first 12 weeks for healthy development
3. Check before taking medicines as most say do not take while pregnant
4. If you smoke, it’s time to quit now!
5. Cut out alcohol
6. Cut down on caffeine - note don’t cut out completely as you may get nasty headaches if you are used to having a cup in the morning.
7. Learn what to eat and what not to eat - many foods are now off-limits find a list here.  You may get cravings and this is normal if you want pickles and marmite just eat them. Or in my case, Marmite and peanut butter. Yum!
8. Get relief from pregnancy morning sickness if you get it. Look into options or consult your doctor.  This can be the worst part of pregnancy and you need to prepare for it. Eat small meals often. Some are lucky not to suffer some like me are not! A cup of tea and a slice of toast before rising can really help
9. Get as much rest as you can - Seriously sleeplessness is coming!
10. Decide when to announce your pregnancy. After 12 weeks is best.  Consider a fun reveal.
11. Exercise as normal but be sure to seek doctors advice on anything strenuous eg lifting heavy weights or overheating are not recommended 
12. Start doing your pelvic floor exercises these can really help with labour and recovery
13. Book your antenatal classes - normally a midwife can help with this. Mothers groups are often formed from good antenatal classes
14. Get your partner involved, this may include having them helping out more and giving you some breaks to rest.  Pregnancy can be quite tiring at the start.
15. Budget for your baby - you will need to buy a few items and the costs can add up.  Even mention to family as they may be keen to help with purchases like a Cot,Car Seat or Stroller.

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If you are at this point you are well on your way.  It may be time to read our next guide - Second Trimester Pregnancy Checklist NZ

Please also feel free to comment below with additional suggestions that you wished you had known or think others will find useful.