S%$* I’m pregnant… NOW WHAT?! A guide for expecting Moms in Charlotte NC
Finding out you're pregnant is incredibly exciting (and maybe a little OH SH*T!) as your life as you know it is going to be turned a wee bit upside down— for all the best reasons! It can be overwhelming as you start to think about all the changes and preparations ahead. Whether you’re a first-time mom or adding another member to your growing family, here’s a helpful guide to navigate the journey from rockin’ pregnancy to rockin’ motherhood! You can do this, all you Charlotte NC moms, I believe in you!
First Things First—Confirming Your pregnancy
I mean we all know (I think) that two pink lines means your eggo is preggo, but it’s always a good idea to get your pregnancy confirmed by a doctor as well! Sometimes doctors will get you in right away (YAY!) and other times, they may want you to wait until you are technically 8 weeks along to confirm. (BOOO) Call your doctor as soon as you get those two pink lines and set up your very first pre-natal appointment!
What will your doctor do at this appointment? All that boring stuff like gather the first day of you last period, maybe ask you to pee in a cup (I swear they made me do this at every appt!), and then more than likely, it’ll be a blood test and an ultrasound to see that new little bean!
Photo by Erin Wilwert Photography
Start Prenatal Care
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular prenatal appointments to monitor your baby’s development and your health.
Prenatal Vitamins: Start taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid to support your baby’s development and prevent birth defects. Some women complain that prentatals make them feel nauseous- try and take them before bed with some crackers or a little food in your stomach.
Adjust Your Lifestyle- Wait WHAT?!
Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains when possible. Avoid foods that are unsafe during pregnancy, like certain types of fish, unpasteurized dairy, and deli meats. There is definitely a list of foods that doctors advise against… and unfortunately sushi is one of those things!
Avoid Harmful Substances: Stop smoking, drinking alcohol, and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals- double check any of the medications you are on to make sure that they are pregnancy safe.
Pregnancy Timeline
First Trimester (Weeks 1-12): Your baby’s organs begin to develop. You might experience morning sickness, EXTREME (like come home from work and take 3 hour naps tired)fatigue, and emotional changes— your body is changing, your hormones are out of whack and it definitely feels different to house a little human!
Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26): This is often the most comfortable period. You’ll likely feel your baby move (first feels like butterfly kisses, then more bubble popping and thumping!), and you might have an ultrasound to check on your baby’s development— typically in NC, ultrasounds are done around 20 weeks which is when you can find out sex if you want to!
Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40): Your baby grows rapidly, and you might start feeling more discomfort as your due date approaches. Think big ball , hard to get comfortable and sleep, and DEFINITELY wearing maternity clothing by now. Time to get ready for labor and delivery!!
Photo by Erin Wilwert Photography
Prepare for Baby’s Arrival
Baby Essentials: Start gathering baby essentials like clothing, diapers, a crib, and a car seat. Don’t forget items like a stroller, baby carrier, baby swing, and baby monitor. Create a space where baby will sleep when you bring him or her home.
Create a Birth Plan: Think about your preferences for labor and delivery. Discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider.
Take Classes: Consider taking prenatal classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care to feel more prepared.
Consider photos: Do you want to document your newest little one with photos of your growing belly? Take monthly photos yourself, or schedule a maternity photoshoot in Charlotte NC and have a professional capture beautiful photos of this phase! (If you need a recommendation, I would love to chat! I provide stylized portraits for both maternity and newborn! Here is a link to learn more!)
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Emotional Support: Surround yourself with supportive family and friends. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it, that’s what friends and family are for!!
Stress Management: Practice stress-relieving techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and prenatal yoga.
Professional Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, talk to your healthcare provider about getting professional support.
Plan for Maternity Leave
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your employer’s maternity leave policy and your rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) if applicable.
Financial Planning: Plan your finances to accommodate the time you’ll be on maternity leave and any additional expenses related to your baby’s arrival.
Connect with Other Moms
Join Support Groups: Find local or online support groups for expecting moms. Sharing experiences and advice can be incredibly comforting. When we moved and I had two young children, I joined meetup.com and met my still best friend from 10 years ago just by going to a mommy and me meet up!
Parenting Classes: Enroll in parenting classes to learn more about what to expect after your baby arrives.
Conclusion
Congratulations!!! While pregnancy is a lot of changes, it is part of my life that I look back on very fondly. (Don’t worry, you forget all the crappy pregnancy side effects not long after they arrive.) There is literally nothing more amazing than meeting your little one for the first time! It’s like planning a wedding again- all those little baby steps you need to plan and check off your list until the big day. Enjoy your pregnancy and I would love to help you with any photo needs you might have! My studio has a rack full of gorgeous dresses perfect for maternity and newborn dresses and I would love to celebrate your new life with you!
A few other blogs you might be interested in checking out!
Maternity clothing spots- https://www.erinwilwertphotography.com/blog/mbsav39rrgcjy8vb2mardy278adra6
https://www.erinwilwertphotography.com/blog/novant-health-maternity
https://www.erinwilwertphotography.com/blog/prenatal-classses-at-novant-health-maternity
