What does a mom have to look forward to during the first trimester of pregnancy?

First of all, a lot of excitement surrounds the good news that a baby is coming. Mom can expect a lot of attention, sometimes more than she wants. Everyone wants to know about morning sickness; everyone has a horror story and everyone wants all the details right now!!!!

The excitement of a first child propels the parents-to-be into a new, exciting type of love. Their love for each other turns into the elated expectation of spreading that love to a third person, a tiny, lovable creature who magically solves all problems and waves a wand of peace and forever enchantment over the household.

The first doctor’s visit takes place during this time, probably after one or more early pregnancy tests and an initial period of shock. “Is this really happening to me?” “What in the world do I do now?”

Alcohol is now a taboo and healthy eating takes the place of fast food on the run. Exercise can and should continue, as well as the regular activities of daily life. Work goes on; laundry goes on and mood swings happen.

Movement does not occur during the first trimester either, so many woman don’t even feel pregnant. Others experience very sore breasts, fatigue and the sense that it doesn’t make sense to take the time to eat because it just comes right back up again.

The first sonogram will most likely occur somewhere near the end of this time. This is usually a big surprise, particularly for new moms who expect to see a baby, but actually see little stumps moving around and a tiny being attached to them. No, the sex of the baby is not apparent yet either!

Is this really the little critter who is causing the morning sickness and the body changes?

Even so, the new parents cuddle as they see the sonogram, proof that their little miracle is growing and thriving. Some couples show photos of the sonogram to family and friends, pointing out every detail with awe and wonder.

This is the time to ask the doctor questions, then consult the parenting experts to see if the doctor is correct. If the bond between Mom and doctor is not working, it is also the time to look around for someone who is more encouraging and willing to form a bond of positive mutual regard. While babies are born every day, THIS baby is special to this couple and needs to be respected as such. Mom definitely should not dread visits to the obstetrician. This is an exciting time in parents’ lives and is different for everyone.

However, most parents end up saying the words that those in the real world find amusingly cute. “The baby won’t change our lives one bit,” they proudly say to their friends. “We will just be one more!”

Friends who have new babies themselves nod quietly, hoping not to disrupt this happy thought.