Pregnancy is one of the most powerful, emotional, and life-changing seasons in a woman’s life. It brings excitement, questions, body changes, mood swings, planning, nesting… and sometimes a little overwhelm too. Between doctor’s appointments, getting the house ready, and thinking about your baby’s arrival, it’s completely normal to wonder: what do I actually need to know during pregnancy?

This guide was written in a warm, practical, everyday tone — especially for families living in the United States. It’s not a medical textbook, but it’s based on guidance from trusted organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO). When relevant, sources are mentioned.

Every pregnancy is different. Use this as a helpful guide, but always follow your provider’s advice.

What’s Important to Do in the First Trimester?

The first trimester (weeks 1–13) is a big one. So much is happening behind the scenes — even before you’re showing.

1. Schedule your first prenatal appointment

As soon as you confirm you’re pregnant, go ahead and book your first appointment. In the U.S., most providers see patients for the first visit around 6–8 weeks.

Early prenatal care helps make sure everything is progressing well and gives you a chance to ask questions right from the start.

2. Get your initial labs and ultrasound

During the first trimester, your provider will likely order:

• Blood work

• Blood type and Rh factor

• Infection screenings

• Optional genetic screening (depending on your situation)

• A first ultrasound

These tests give a good overall picture of your health and your baby’s early development.

3. Talk about supplementation

Nutrition plays a big role in pregnancy. Supplementation is important to support your baby’s development and your own health.

That said, every woman’s body is different. At your appointments, your doctor will review your labs, medical history, and personal needs to recommend the right supplementation plan for you.

Avoid starting anything on your own — your provider will guide you based on what your body truly needs.

4. Adjust daily habits

This is the time to focus on healthy choices:

• Do not consume alcohol

• Do not smoke

• Limit caffeine

• Stay hydrated

• Eat balanced, nourishing meals

Small consistent habits make a big difference.

5. Manage early symptoms

It’s common to experience:

• Nausea (morning sickness — which can happen all day!)

• Extreme fatigue

• Tender breasts

• Mood swings

• Food aversions

Helpful tips:

• Eat small meals throughout the day

• Don’t let yourself get too hungry

• Keep simple snacks nearby

• Rest whenever you can

If symptoms feel overwhelming, reach out to your provider. You don’t have to push through alone.

6. Take care of your mental health

Hormones are shifting fast, and so are emotions. It’s normal to feel excited one minute and anxious the next.

If you notice ongoing sadness, anxiety, or emotional distress, talk to your provider. Mental health during pregnancy matters.

Source: ACOG – Mental Health Care During Pregnancy

What Should I Focus On in the Second Trimester?

The second trimester (weeks 14–27) is often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. Energy usually comes back, nausea eases up, and you may finally start feeling like yourself again.

1. Keep up with regular appointments

During this stage, you’ll typically have:

• The anatomy scan (around 20 weeks)

• Growth monitoring

• Blood pressure checks

• Weight tracking

This is when you get a detailed look at your baby’s development.

2. Complete follow-up testing

Between 24 and 28 weeks, your provider will run additional routine tests to see how your body is responding to pregnancy.

These are standard and help catch anything early.

Source: ACOG – Gestational Health Guidelines

3. Stay active (if cleared by your provider)

Movement can help with:

• Back pain

• Circulation

• Sleep

• Overall mood

Walking, prenatal yoga, stretching, and light strength work are common options.

4. Start thinking about your birth plan

This is a great time to:

• Talk about delivery options

• Learn about your hospital or birth center

• Ask questions about pain management

• Think through your preferences

The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel.

5. Begin planning the nursery and baby essentials

Many families start organizing baby items during the second trimester, especially after the anatomy scan.

This is when nesting really begins.

6. Enjoy feeling baby move

Around 18–22 weeks, you may start feeling those little flutters. At first it feels like tiny bubbles or butterflies.

Talking to your baby, singing, and gently touching your belly help strengthen that connection.

What’s Important in the Third Trimester?

The third trimester (week 28 until birth) is all about preparation — physically and emotionally.

1. Appointments become more frequent

Toward the end, you’ll see your provider more often to monitor:

• Blood pressure

• Baby’s growth

• Baby’s position

• Signs of labor

2. Pay attention to your body

Call your provider if you notice:

• Fluid leakage

• Bleeding

• Significant decrease in baby’s movement

• Regular contractions

When in doubt, it’s always okay to check.

3. Pack your hospital bag

Most families pack between 34–36 weeks.

Include:

• ID and insurance information

• Comfortable clothes

• Toiletries

• Baby’s first outfit

• Car seat installed in your vehicle (required for hospital discharge in the U.S.)

4. Learn about breastfeeding

If you plan to breastfeed, learning ahead of time helps. Many hospitals offer classes, and lactation consultants can be incredibly supportive.

Breastfeeding is recommended exclusively during the first months when possible.

5. Prepare your home

• Crib assembled

• Baby clothes washed

• Diapers organized

• A cozy feeding and recovery space ready

6. Rest — seriously

Sleep may feel harder now. Use pillows for support, slow down your schedule, and listen to your body.

You’re doing a lot.

Pregnancy Checklist

Health

• Start prenatal care

• Complete all recommended labs

• Follow up on second trimester testing

• Stay up to date on provider-recommended vaccines

• Discuss individualized supplementation

Planning

• Choose hospital or birth center

• Confirm insurance coverage

• Plan maternity leave

• Review birth preferences

Baby Essentials

• Make a list of must-haves

• Newborn and 0–3 month clothes

• Diapers and care supplies

• Install car seat

When Should I Start Buying Baby Items?

In the U.S., many families begin during the second trimester, often after the anatomy scan.

Helpful tips:

• Start researching around 16–20 weeks

• Create a registry

• Think about the season your baby will be born

• Have everything ready by 34–36 weeks

FAQ – Real-Life Pregnancy Questions

When will I actually feel pregnant?

For some women, it’s immediate. For others, it takes time. Physical changes, emotions, and baby movement all contribute to that “this is real” moment.

Why am I so tired all the time?

Growing a human takes a lot of energy. Fatigue is especially common in the first and third trimesters. Rest is productive right now.

My belly looks different than someone else’s, is that okay?

Absolutely. Every body carries differently. Belly size and shape vary widely and don’t automatically mean anything about baby’s health.

How will I know when labor starts?

True labor usually means contractions that get stronger, closer together, and don’t go away. But if you’re unsure, call your provider. That’s what they’re there for.

Is it normal to feel nervous about giving birth?

Yes. Completely. Education, support, and preparation help turn fear into confidence — but a little nervousness is normal.

What should I expect emotionally after birth?

The postpartum period brings physical recovery, hormonal shifts, and major life adjustments. Support is essential. Ask for help. Accept help.

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Pregnancy is just the beginning of a new chapter. From those first weeks to postpartum recovery, every step comes with growth, learning, and love.

Primo Passi has been in the market for 10 years, always developing products designed to support you during pregnancy and through the postpartum journey with your baby. Our mission is to walk alongside you in every phase — creating thoughtful solutions that make this season more comfortable, practical, and supported.

You’re not alone in this journey. 💛