Updated April 2023
You took a pregnancy test, and it came back positive. Or maybe, you have had your first pregnancy appointment, and you want a reminder of what lies ahead. Pregnancy can be a confusing time for many, which is why we’ve put together a list of common questions you might be asking during your first trimester.
If you’d like to get your personal pregnancy questions answered, the Family Health Clinic would be happy to support you throughout your pregnancy. Make an appointment by calling (800) 321-5043.
When should women schedule their first appointment after they find out they’re pregnant?
As soon as you know that you’re pregnant, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with a provider. A few provider options include an OBGYN, a Certified Nurse Midwife, or your Primary Care Provider.
According to AmericanPregnancy.org, your first prenatal visit will generally be around 8 weeks after your LMP (last menstrual period). Call your provider to find out when you’ll be seen!
If you’re a patient of the Family Health Clinic, you will be able to see us throughout your pregnancy. We offer prenatal care.
What does health care during pregnancy look like?
In traditional prenatal care, providers typically recommended: 1 prenatal visit per month during weeks 4 to 28, 1 prenatal visit every two weeks between 28 to 36, and then one visit per week from weeks 36 to birth. Generally, this ends up being about ten prenatal visits.
However, talk to your provider about what prenatal care might look like for you.
What symptoms of pregnancy can women feel during their first trimester?
Pregnant women can have a variety of symptoms, and they vary person to person. When you’re in your first trimester, you might experience:
- Tender, swollen breasts
- Nausea and possibly vomiting
- Fatigue
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Increased need to urinate
- Aversion to some foods
- Mood swings or intense moods
If you’re concerned about any symptoms you’re facing during your first trimester, talk to your provider at your next appointment.
What is morning sickness?
Morning sickness is the nausea and vomiting women experience while pregnant. And, while it’s called “morning sickness”, it can strike at any time of the day or night! Usually, morning sickness is caused by rising hormone levels. If you’re facing severe morning sickness, talk to your provider about ways to help ease your nausea.
What are signs during your first trimester that you should seek immediate medical help?
This information from the United States National Center for Biotechnology Information says, “If any of the following signs occur, the woman should be taken immediately to the hospital or health centre.
- vaginal bleeding
- convulsions/fits
- severe headaches with blurred vision
- severe abdominal pain
- fever and too weak to get out of bed
- fast or difficult breathing.
If she has any of these signs she should go to (a health center) as soon as possible:
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Feels ill
- Swelling of fingers, face and legs”
You can also check out this document to learn about urgent material warning signs. Please note, this blog should not be used to diagnose if you need medical help or replace trusted medical advice. If you feel you need immediate medical help, choose the best option for yourself: 9-1-1 or an emergency room.
Overall, what are some important things a woman does during her first trimester?
First and foremost, find a provider that will support you and provide you with trusted medical advice throughout your pregnancy. Other things that are important during your first trimester include:
- Taking your prenatal vitamin
- Talking to your provider about which medications you’re taking
- Checking your health insurance to understand your prenatal care costs and delivery costs
- Quitting smoking and drinking alcohol for the full duration of your pregnancy
- Checking to make sure your activities are safe for pregnancy, such as exercise
Whether you’re confused, excited, anxious, or a mix of all of them…we can help!
At the Family Health Clinic, we offer prenatal care through individual appointments. Make an appointment by calling (800) 321-5043 to see if our services would be a good fit for you.
We would be honored to walk by you during your pregnancy.
