You’ve dreamed of the day you’ll be pregnant. You have fanaticized about your belly growing, even of holding your child in your hands. But nowhere in your fantasies did you ever envision yourself peeing on a stick, or the fact that the very first thing your doctor will have you do is get your blood drawn, and a lot of it, as a part of this joyful time in your life.

The day you realize your period is late you rush to the pharmacy to get a pregnancy kit (or ten) only to pee on a stick. Some two to five minutes later you find out you are pregnant (or confused which color means what, etc.). Then the excitement hits you and later reality (not to say it isn’t a wonderful time in your life, but less picturesque items find their way into this new reality). You now have to start taking care of yourself for the two of you. No more alcohol, tobacco, sushi, hot tubs & more. You may accept these new restrictions, or resist the new prohibitions, but remember, it is just for nine months (actually less by the time you found out you’re preggo) and it really is for the health & safety of both you and your baby.

Talk to your doctor about your lifestyle to determine if you need to make any changes due to your pregnancy. If you have before, you can keep exercising, but don’t overdo it or start something new. If you are a smoker, this is a great time to quit this unhealthy (& expensive) habit. You will find that you feel better once you get over the addiction! Give up alcohol all together and pick up a new habit of taking a battle of water with you everywhere. You should stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.

In the first trimester you may find that you are exhausted most of the time. You’ll most likely get a second wind in your second trimester, till then don’t fight it, rest when you can. Start taking your prenatal vitamins, they should help. Even if you are not showing yet, wear comfortable clothes and shoes (This does not mean you cannot be stylish!).  Your back will thank you later (…)

And most importantly, enjoy this magical time in your life! It may not seem like it now, but it is only nine months and the time flies by so fast you’ll be looking back and wandering how it slipped away.

Happy pregnancy!