The Trimesters
First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)
The first trimester is a time of rapid change as your body begins to nurture new life.
It’s marked by early pregnancy symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, and emotional shifts, as your baby’s major organs start to develop.
Confirm Pregnancy:
Take a home pregnancy test.
Book an appointment with your GP to confirm pregnancy and discuss prenatal care.
Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins:
Folic acid, iodine, and vitamin D are crucial in the early stages.
Research and Choose a Care Provider:
Decide between public hospital, private hospital, midwife, or obstetrician.
Book your first antenatal appointment.
Plan for Blood Tests and Ultrasounds:
Schedule necessary tests, including blood type, iron levels, and the Nuchal Translucency scan.
Consider Genetic Testing:
Discuss options like NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) for chromosomal conditions.
Lifestyle Adjustments:
Quit smoking and alcohol.
Begin a pregnancy-safe exercise routine.
Adjust your diet to include pregnancy-friendly foods.
Inform Your Employer:
Discuss maternity leave entitlements and start planning for work adjustments.
Start Documenting Your Journey:
Begin a pregnancy journal or use an app to track symptoms and milestones.
Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26)
Attend Routine Check-ups:
Regular antenatal visits, including the 18-20 week morphology scan.
Maternity Wear:
Invest in comfortable clothing as your body changes.
Begin Pregnancy Classes:
Look into antenatal classes, yoga, or hypnobirthing.
Plan for Maternity Leave:
Finalize dates and notify your employer.
Start Baby Shopping:
Essentials: cot, pram, car seat (ensure it meets Australian safety standards).
Nursery items: clothes, nappies, feeding supplies.
Consider Childcare Options:
If planning to return to work, research and apply for childcare early.
Prepare for the Baby Shower:
Decide on a date and guest list.
Location and budget.
Create a baby registry.
Update Health Insurance:
Ensure it covers pregnancy and newborn care.
Find a solution for that horrendous heartburn/acid reflux.
Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40)
Birth Plan:
Discuss with your care provider.
Consider pain relief options and preferences for delivery ( water birth, no intervention, home birth etc.)
Pack Your Hospital Bag:
Essentials: maternity pads, nursing bras, baby clothes, toiletries.
Include important documents: Medicare card, birth plan, insurance info.
Install the Car Seat:
Have it professionally installed or check guidelines for proper installation.
Set Up the Nursery:
Ensure everything is ready for the baby's arrival.
Attend Final Antenatal Classes:
Cover topics like breastfeeding and newborn care.
Prepare for Postpartum:
Stock up on essentials like pain relief, pads, and comfortable clothing.
Arrange for help during the first few weeks (e.g., family support, meal services).
Prepare Financially:
Finalize any government benefits (e.g., Paid Parental Leave Scheme).
Budget for any additional expenses.
Pick baby name:
Pick a name for the baby.
Decide on middle names if any
Practice Relaxation Techniques:
Focus on rest, breathing exercises, and managing stress as you approach your due date.
Postpartum (After Birth)
Register Baby’s Birth:
Complete necessary paperwork and apply for a birth certificate.
Book Newborn Check-ups:
Schedule appointments for health checkups and immunizations.
Apply for Baby’s Medicare Card:
Ensure your baby is added to your Medicare account.
Get Support for Breastfeeding:
Access lactation consultants or breastfeeding groups if needed.
Attend Postnatal Check-up:
Usually at 6 weeks, discuss recovery, mental health, and contraception.
Join a mothers group:
Local community centres
Enjoy that new baby smell
Soak in all that goodness a new baby brings