Congratulations on your pregnancy! There’s so much joy in knowing you’re going to become a mom, but also, so many unknowns. As I’ve been navigating this journey myself, I’ve learned a ton of helpful pregnancy tips from other experienced moms, books, and my own trial and error.
Please note: The views on this website are based on my personal opinions and experiences. I am not giving any medical advice. This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only.
16 of The Absolute Best Pregnancy Tips For First Time Moms
Whether you’re newly pregnant or getting closer to the third trimester, here are 16 pregnancy tips I wish someone had told me when I was first starting out. Let’s make this journey a little smoother, shall we?
Stay Hydrated
You’ve probably heard this pregnancy tip a million times, but it’s for a reason! Keeping hydrated is crucial during pregnancy to support your growing baby and your body’s increased blood volume.
Plus, it can help reduce swelling and prevent those uncomfortable leg cramps at night.
Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water per day, more if you’re active or experiencing symptoms like nausea or swelling.
Moreover, staying hydrated will help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and help with digestion. Carrying a refillable water bottle around can help you stay on track.
Start Prenatal Vitamins Early
Prenatal vitamins are packed with essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, which are crucial for your baby’s development.
My tip is to begin taking them as soon as you find out you’re pregnant (or even before, if you’re planning), to ensure your body has the necessary nutrients to support a healthy pregnancy.
There are many options on the market, but after a research, I chose to take New Chapter Advanced Perfect Prenatal Multivitamins.
They have everything you need to support baby’s healthy development and mom’s healthy pregnancy. 100% daily value of iron, and rich in folate, B vitamins, vitamin D3, vitamin C, A, and Zinc.
These vitamins are made with certified organic vegetables and herbs.
They are non-GMO, has no added sugar, no synthetic fillers, no artificial colors or flavors.
Additionally, you can take them anytime, even on an empty stomach.
They also helped me with nausea, because of the ginger ingredient.
I recommend these vitamins with both hands. You can find them on Amazon.
Eat a Balanced Diet & Avoid Certain Foods
One of the most common pregnancy tips is eating well, but what does that really mean? Focus on a nutrient-rich diet full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Whole Grains: Like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread for steady energy.
- Protein: Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, and legumes help with fetal growth.
- Calcium-Rich Foods: Dairy products, fortified plant milks, and leafy greens support bone development.
- Folic Acid: Foods like leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals to prevent neural tube defects.
Moreover, foods high in fiber can help prevent constipation, which is a common pregnancy discomfort. Try to eat small, frequent meals to keep your energy up and avoid nausea.
Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
Some foods can pose a risk to you and your baby. These include raw seafood, unpasteurized cheeses, deli meats, and undercooked meats or eggs.
Make sure to cook your food thoroughly and avoid high-mercury fish like swordfish and king mackerel.
Hard to Follow Pregnancy Tip - Try to Limit Eating Junk Food
I know, this pregnancy tip is hard to follow! While it’s totally okay to indulge occasionally, try not to make it a habit.
Foods high in sugar, salt, and processed ingredients provide little nutritional value for you or your baby.
Opt for healthier snacks like nuts, yogurt, or fresh fruit when you’re craving something sweet.
Rest & Sleep as Much as You Can
It’s natural to feel more tired than usual in pregnancy, especially during the first and third trimesters. Make sure you’re taking time to rest, whether that means taking naps, putting your feet up, or simply going to bed a bit earlier.
I remember people telling me to “sleep now, because you won’t get much sleep when the baby comes.” It is so true!
During the first trimester, l was very exhausted, so I napped often in the afternoons.
When my belly grew up a lot in the third trimester, I purchased a pregnancy pillow for sleeping to snuggle with. The best pregnant woman friend!
Take Care of Your Skin
Hormonal changes can lead to dry skin and pigmentation changes.
As your belly grows, so will your skin. This can be a great time to start moisturizing to help reduce the risk of stretch marks and itchy skin.
My pregnancy tip is to use a hydrating lotion, natural oils (shea butter, coconut oil, almond oil), or a good stretch mark cream to keep your skin hydrated.
For example, I moisturized my skin with pure, unrefined Shea Butter daily and didn’t get any stretch marks on my belly and breast.
Prepare for the Emotional Roller Coaster
Hormones are no joke, and you might find yourself crying one minute and laughing the next. You may feel overwhelmed, or even angry at the smallest things.
Just know that these emotional ups and downs are part of the pregnancy experience, and they’re totally okay. Keep your partner or a trusted friend close by for support when things get tough.
My advice to manage stress is to practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness. Prenatal yoga or even listening to calming music can help you unwind.
Get Regular Exercise (Even If It’s Just Walking)
Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, staying active during pregnancy is great for your physical and mental well-being.
Activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help improve circulation, reduce stress, and boost your mood.
I found that short walks and gentle prenatal yoga helped my body stay flexible and relieve stress. Always listen to your body, and don’t overdo it.
Practice Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which will be especially helpful during labor and recovery.
They can also reduce the risk of incontinence later in life. Simply squeeze and release the muscles you use to stop urinating, and try to hold for a few seconds before releasing.
Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to pregnancy! Consider reading books, attending prenatal classes, or watching informative videos.
This can help you prepare for labor, delivery, and caring for your newborn. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel.
For instance, I took a few online prenatal classes about taking care for a newborn and read The Simplest Baby Book in The World by S.M. Gross. It’s a bestseller, so check it out on Amazon.
A Pregnancy Tip Not To Be Missed - Write a Birth Plan
While birth plans can be fluid (since things may change unexpectedly), it’s helpful to consider your preferences for labor, delivery, and post-birth care.
Do you want an epidural? Are you hoping for a natural birth? Who is going to be your support person? Knowing your preferences in advance can help you feel more prepared.
For example, I wrote in my birth plan that I wanted a natural birth and to get less medications and interruptions during labor.
Regarding my baby, I described that I wished for a delayed cord clamping, immediate skin to skin, and no bathing in the hospital.
You can find templates online with examples what to include in your birth plan.
Create Baby Registry
At some point, your family, friends, and even coworkers will likely start asking what you need for your baby. One easy way to manage those requests is by creating a free online baby registry and sharing the link with them.
Popular options like Amazon and Target make it simple to set up. I signed on both, but primarily used Amazon registry for my baby shower.
It’s quick, free, and gives you the flexibility to add as many items as you like—whether for your baby or for yourself postpartum.
Furthermore, having a registry helps keep you organized and makes it easier to track what you still need before your little one arrives.
As a bonus, if you are a prime member, Amazon sends you a gift box filled with baby samples and goodies worth about $35 when you create a registry.
Prepare Your Home Early
It’s never too early to start preparing for your baby’s arrival. For example, clean your home, set up the nursery, get all newborn essentials, wash the baby clothes, and organize them.
Check My Ultimate Guide on Baby Essentials
One helpful pregnancy tip I came across and followed was to cook and freeze a few meals a couple of weeks before giving a birth. That way, we had homemade food ready for the first few days after returning from the hospital.
Having these things in place can ease the transition when your baby finally arrives.
My Favorite Pregnancy Tip - Take a Baby Moon
Taking a getaway doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate, but it’s definitely something every first time mom should make a priority.
Our baby moon was in Mexico during my second trimester, and it was perfect!
I felt amazing the entire time—no issues with flying, I enjoyed delicious meals, took gorgeous maternity photos on the beach, and soaked up plenty of rest and sunshine.
The only downside was a bit of swelling from the heat, so I ended up living in my flip-flops for most of the trip.
Once your baby arrives, vacations are going to look a bit different. You will be planning trips and activities around nap times and waking up at 6 a.m. for feedings.
We just came back from a Mexico trip with our baby, and it was a vacation mostly for her!
Get Ready for Postpartum Recovery
Although the focus is often on the baby, don’t forget about yourself! Start thinking about your postpartum recovery and create a plan.
Stock up on supplies like maternity pads, nursing bras, and comfortable loungewear. Take time to rest and heal after delivery.
The Most Important Pregnancy Tip - Enjoy Your Pregnancy
My most important tip is to enjoy your pregnancy! It is such a special time — even though it might feel like an eternity, the months will fly by.
Take the time to celebrate the little moments, whether it’s feeling your baby kick, hearing their heartbeat at a checkup, or just imagining what life will be like once they’re in your arms. You’ve got this, mama!
Pin These Pregnancy Tips for Later
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Final Thoughts
I hope these pregnancy tips will help make your journey a little smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, you are doing an amazing job, and every step you take is one step closer to meeting your precious little one.
Wishing you all the best on this beautiful journey ahead! 💕
With love,
Dani
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Read MoreWhat’s your top pregnancy tip for first time moms? Leave it in the comments — I’d love to hear from you! Please share this post on social media. Thank you for your support!