What should an expectant mother know in her first pregnancy?

First pregnancy - how to prepare?

Preparations for a first pregnancy are similar to those for subsequent pregnancies. The only difference is that the expectant mother is going through this period for the first time, so many things are new to her. It is important that the partner is also actively involved in the preparation for pregnancy, so that the woman feels more confident in the new situation.

When preparing for the first pregnancy, it is important to remember to visit the gynecologist and have examinations such as a cytology test. It is also advisable to ask the specialist about recommended nutritional supplements. In most cases, women should take folic acid before pregnancy. It is also advisable to check the vaccination status and any outstanding vaccinations before starting.

When looking for pregnancy tips and information, many expectant parents turn to various guidebooks. Remember to choose trustworthy and reliable sources. It is also important to have the right attitude and not worry too much. Before the first pregnancy, when partners are generally healthy, it is not advisable to perform sperm tests, for example. Such diagnoses are performed only after usually a year of unsuccessful efforts.

First pregnancy - Tips

A very important decision, which is one of the first that an expectant mother makes, is the choice of the attending physician. It is best to go to a gynecologist you know or trust. If the expectant mother has doubts, she can switch to a doctor to whom she can share all her concerns about her first pregnancy and who will understand and listen to her.

When it comes to the first pregnancy, many people around the expectant parents want to give advice and help. Golden tips or grandmother's methods are probably very useful, but not everyone needs them. It is advisable to obtain scientific information and raise doubts when visiting the gynecologist.

On the Internet there are many lists of equipment and things to buy for a newborn. However, it is worth looking at these lists critically and not buying everything that other parents recommend. It is best to ask relatives and friends what has actually proven to be useful and what is completely unnecessary. This will help you save money and reduce your already high pre-baby expenses. It is also a good idea to use clothes or equipment left over from your relatives' children.

First pregnancy - before delivery

For both first pregnancies and later pregnancies, parents are advised to attend a childbirth preparation course. For a couple expecting their first child, it will provide all the necessary information about the end of pregnancy, delivery, and the basics of caring for a newborn, while parents expecting a second child can refresh and recall familiar information. By attending a childbirth class or consulting a midwife, parents are better prepared for the birth and are therefore often less anxious and worried.

Before the birth, it is also advisable to make a birth plan and discuss it with the midwife and the person who will accompany you to the delivery room, if possible. The plan should be well thought out and include all the points that are important for the expectant mother.

To feel more confident, many couples choose to visit the maternity ward and the delivery room where they plan to give birth. Many hospitals in Switzerland offer expectant parents the opportunity to visit and familiarize themselves with the ward.

Not everyone is aware that only 5% of women give birth on their due date. For this reason, it is a good idea to prepare your hospital and delivery bag in advance so that everything is ready when the birth begins, which will certainly save parents unnecessary stress.