Finding out you’re pregnant can bring a rush of emotions – excitement, disbelief, maybe even a little nervousness. The first trimester (weeks 1 to 12) is when everything begins to take shape – both for your baby and for you. It’s also when many important foundations for a healthy pregnancy are set.
To help you feel informed and organised, here’s a comprehensive first trimester pregnancy checklist – covering health, appointments, nutrition, lifestyle, and emotional wellbeing.
1. Book Your First GP or Midwife Appointment
Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy with a home test, your next step is to book an appointment with your GP or midwife. This initial consultation helps:
- Confirm your estimated due date.
- Discuss your medical history and current health.
- Arrange your first prenatal (antenatal) blood tests and screening options.
This appointment usually takes place around week 8–10, so it’s worth scheduling early – especially if local services have waiting times.
If you prefer a private consultation, Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare offers early pregnancy assessments and detailed scanning services for expectant parents to provide reassurance and clarity during these early weeks.
2. Start Taking Folic Acid (and Other Key Vitamins)
One of the most important early pregnancy steps is starting a daily folic acid supplement (400 micrograms) – ideally before conception, but as soon as you know you’re pregnant if not.
Folic acid supports the development of your baby’s neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord. Taking it early reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
Many prenatal vitamins also include vitamin D, iron, calcium, and iodine, all of which play key roles in your baby’s growth and your own wellbeing.
If you’re unsure what’s right for you, speak with your GP or a private healthcare specialist for tailored guidance.
3. Review Your Lifestyle and Habits
Small changes can make a big difference in early pregnancy. It’s important to adjust your daily routines to support your health and your baby’s development.
- Stop smoking – Tobacco restricts oxygen supply to your baby and increases risk of complications.
- Avoid alcohol – There’s no known safe amount during pregnancy.
- Limit caffeine – Keep it below 200mg per day (about two cups of instant coffee).
- Get plenty of rest – Fatigue is common as your body works harder than usual.
- Stay hydrated – Aim for 6–8 glasses of water daily.
It’s also a good time to reassess your diet. Aim for a balance of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid high-mercury fish, unpasteurised dairy, and undercooked meats.
4. Schedule Your First Ultrasound
The first ultrasound, known as the dating scan, usually takes place between weeks 8 and 14. It confirms:
- Your due date
- The baby’s heartbeat and growth
- Whether you’re carrying more than one baby
Some parents also choose an early viability scan (from around week 6) for reassurance, especially if they’ve experienced previous complications or anxiety.
Our private detailed scanning services for expectant parents provide early, high-resolution imaging and compassionate care in a calm environment.
5. Understand Early Pregnancy Symptoms
The first trimester often brings noticeable physical changes – some exciting, some less so. While symptoms vary widely, the most common include:
- Morning sickness or nausea (which can happen any time of day)
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Fatigue and need for extra rest
- Frequent urination
- Mood changes
Mild symptoms are normal, but if you experience severe vomiting, dizziness, or pain, contact your doctor or midwife promptly.
Try to rest when needed, eat small frequent meals, and remember – these early symptoms often ease after week 12, as hormone levels stabilise.
6. Plan for Work and Rest
It’s not always easy to balance early pregnancy with everyday responsibilities, especially if you’re keeping the news private at first.
Consider:
- Reviewing your workplace policies on maternity leave.
- Planning short rest breaks during the day.
- Communicating with your manager if you’re struggling with nausea or fatigue.
Some women find the first trimester emotionally challenging too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from loved ones or your healthcare provider.
7. Think About Exercise – Safely
If you were active before pregnancy, it’s usually safe to continue with gentle modifications. Activities like walking, swimming, yoga, or prenatal Pilates can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and prepare your body for later stages.
Avoid contact sports, high-impact workouts, or exercises that risk falls. Always check with your GP or midwife before starting a new routine.
8. Prepare Financially and Practically
It might feel early, but now’s a great time to start thinking ahead:
- Review your maternity benefits or insurance coverage.
- Begin setting aside savings for baby essentials or maternity leave.
- Consider booking prenatal classes for later in pregnancy (they fill up quickly).
A bit of organisation now can make the later trimesters far less stressful.
9. Start Learning About Nutrition and Baby Development
Understanding what your body and baby need in these early weeks helps you make confident choices. Try reading about:
- Healthy pregnancy nutrition and portion sizes.
- Foods to avoid (soft cheeses, raw eggs, high-mercury fish).
- Safe supplements and hydration.
If you haven’t already, you might enjoy reading our guide on how to prepare for pregnancy, which covers nutrition, vitamins, and early lifestyle habits in more depth.
10. Schedule Your Next Check-Ups and Screenings
Between weeks 10 and 14, you’ll be offered a range of optional prenatal screenings. These assess your baby’s growth and identify potential genetic conditions. Your healthcare provider will explain which tests are available and when they’re recommended.
Common tests include:
- Blood tests for anaemia, blood type, and immunity.
- Screening for Down’s syndrome, Edwards’ syndrome, and Patau’s syndrome.
- Urine tests for infections or protein levels.
Regular check-ups provide reassurance and help catch any issues early – a key part of healthy pregnancy care.
11. Support Your Mental Wellbeing
Early pregnancy can be emotionally overwhelming. Hormonal changes can amplify anxiety or mood swings, and it’s perfectly normal to feel mixed emotions – even joy and worry in the same moment.
To care for your mental health:
- Share your feelings with someone you trust.
- Get outside daily for fresh air.
- Practise mindfulness or relaxation breathing.
- Avoid scrolling through too many “perfect” pregnancy stories online – every journey is unique.
If you feel persistently low or anxious, let your GP or midwife know. Early support makes a real difference.
Final Thoughts
The first trimester is full of change, but it’s also the foundation of your pregnancy journey. Taking simple, proactive steps – scheduling appointments, caring for your nutrition, and listening to your body – helps you feel more in control.
Remember: every pregnancy is different. Don’t compare your timeline or symptoms to anyone else’s. The most important thing is to stay informed, prioritise rest, and seek professional care when you need reassurance.
At Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare, we’re here to support you every step of the way – from early scans to personalised advice. Our team combines medical expertise with compassionate care to help you feel confident and cared for as your pregnancy begins.
