What to Expect in the First Pregnancy

Experiencing a first pregnancy is like traversing a maze for the first time. You know the goal but aren't entirely sure how you are going to get there. You're aware of some of the milestones but maybe not every potential hazard. The more educated and prepared you can be on the path, the more confident you will be to make it to the end.

How You Will Know

Whether or not you were trying to conceive, you may not be aware of your earliest pregnancy symptoms. Your missed period and a home pregnancy test may be your first indications. After your first pregnancy, you may be more alert to the earliest signs of pregnancy, such as nausea, cramping, headaches and fatigue. Since every woman's body is different, it will be impossible to predict exactly how your body will respond and feel with the additional hormones after conception.

When To Expect Changes

You may not notice anything until after you have the positive test result, either at home or the doctor's office. After that you may start feeling morning sickness or exhaustion, which you can now association with the pregnancy. You may not start "showing" until after many of the pregnant moms around you who have had more than one child, since your uterus will be stretching for the first time. The exact time will depend on your weight before pregnancy and how many babies you are having. As with pregnancy symptoms, a first-time mom may not detect the flutters of a baby's movement as early as a veteran mom. A new mom might have to wait until 18 to 20 weeks to feel baby's kicks.

What Are The Risks

According to the Ohio State University Health Medical Center's "Risks During Pregnancy" webpage, first-time moms are more likely to contract preeclemsia. First time moms often tend to go to the hospital early in labor. Lying in a hospital bed can slow down labor and lead to problems or a Cesarean section, says a Sutter Health "First Pregnancy and Delivery Initiative" website.

Who To Ask For Help

Talk with your mother or other female family members about problems in their pregnancy. Heredity can lend a hand in preparing you for any potential problems in your pregnancy. Take a first-time mom class and talk with other attendees and the class instructor about your concerns. Tell your doctor about any discomforts you have, as he can determine whether these are normal or red lights.

What Else To Consider

Remember that your partner has not experienced your pregnancy either. Be honest about any discomforts you are feeling so he is aware of your body and its changes. If you struggle to remember, write in a journal or a calendar to track your changes.

Photo Credit

• pregnancy #11 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com