Whether you’re considering becoming a parent for the first time or having a second (or third), it’s an experience that can be both exciting and scary at the same time.
How long will it take to get pregnant? Should I start tracking my cycle? How do I care for a newborn? Will I ever fit into those skinny jeans again… all good questions and while I don’t have all of the answers, here are a few questions and answers to get you started and on the right track.
Planning and prepping for a family? Questions and answers to get you started.
- How can I keep track of my cycle? Simple! Pick up a First Response® Digital Ovulation Test, which predicts your most fertile days based on your personal LH surge. Remember that the best time to start tracking your cycle is before you start trying to conceive. Your two most fertile days begin with the LH surge and you are most likely to get pregnant if you have intercourse within 24-36 hours after you detect your personal LH surge.
Don’t panic if you’ve never heard of your LH surge before! I didn’t know what it was either. If you’re curious, visit firstresponse.com for more info.
- I think I may be pregnant. Now what? Anxious to find out if you’re pregnant? The First Response™ Early Result Pregnancy Test can tell you if you’re pregnant up to six days before your missed period. If you’re interested in sharing the news with friends and family, how you share it is up to you!
- Who will take care of me during my pregnancy? It’s important to determine if you would like a doctor or midwife (or someone else) to care for you during your pregnancy. There are many different options. Pick the person who you feel most comfortable with and don’t let friends or family sway your decision.
- What should I pack in my hospital bag? There are lots of great suggestions for the must-have hospital bag items. I suggest starting your research on Pinterest. Pick a list that feels right to you and start shopping/collecting the items. You’ll want to have the bag packed and ready to go well before your bundle of joy is set to arrive.
- How else can I prepare? The most important tip is to enjoy the experience and make sure to take time for yourself! Unwind after a busy day with a good book and a cup of tea. Plan a weekend getaway and sneak away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Curl up on the couch and watch your favourite movie. These are just a few suggestions.
Before you know it, you’ll be holding your little one in your arms. Nine months went by quickly and being prepared is essential, especially as you tackle sleepless nights and dozens of diaper changes! I suggest stocking up on the essentials – diapers, baby clothes, blankets and bottles are a must. Don’t forget to also stock the medicine cabinet with diaper cream and something to help with colic, such as OVOL™ Drops, which is a simple, alcohol-free solution that can be added to a bottle or used on its own. It helps relieve discomfort caused by trapped gas, making it easier for babies to pass gas and burp at feeding time. Don’t forget to ask your doctor first to find out if this product is right for your new baby!
Oh and those skinny jeans… they’ll fit, eventually! Are you a first-time mom? Do you have a story about trying to conceive? I’d love to hear it.
This is a great article for my friends that are trying! It’s tough with all the pressure put on the couple! Hope this will help them!
Back when I was having my children there were none of these tests and you had to wait at least 6 wks before the Dr could tell you if you were pregnant or not.
Great questions to reflect on personally, then discuss with the potential co-parenting partner, if there is one. Important conversations to have BEFORE the baby is conceived/born – lots to talk about and plan.
It changes life so much. It’s especially good to plan for after the baby is born.
Can I also suggest that people look at their finances and also re-structure their lives for the new arrival… Make arrangements for care; ask family and friends for help (when needed).
I love the advice to simply enjoy the pregnancy. I am currently expecting and I need to take more time to be in the moment and to enjoy it!
This takes me back 40 yrs! There was an awful lot I didn’t know when I was expecting my first child so it was exciting but scary at the same time. I think this is a wonderful post as no doubt many are too nervous to ask questions of others, this will help them to find their way.
So I didn’t exactly “plan” for my daughter, but she was a lovely surprise! However I LOVED planning for my son’s conception and birth. I am such a planner!!!