First Trimester Pregnancy Checklist: 15 Essential Tasks for a Healthy Start
Your first trimester is exciting, overwhelming, and full of questions. This first trimester pregnancy checklist breaks down everything you need to do — from booking your first prenatal visit to starting a registry — so you feel informed, empowered, and ready for the months ahead.
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First Trimester to Do List
Why a First Trimester Pregnancy Checklist Matters
Your body is doing something incredible, but let’s be real — early pregnancy can be a wild ride. A clear, actionable list helps reduce stress, keep you organized, and ensure you’re giving both yourself and your baby the healthiest start possible.
✅ First Trimester Pregnancy Checklist
1. Schedule Your First Prenatal Appointment
As soon as you get a positive test, call your healthcare provider to set up your first prenatal visit — usually between 8 and 10 weeks.
Helpful Tip: Ask about labs, ultrasound timing, and recommended prenatal vitamins.
🛒 Recommended: Garden of Life Prenatal Vitamins – organic, whole-food sourced.
2. Start Taking a High-Quality Prenatal Vitamin
Even if you were already taking folic acid, switch to a full-spectrum prenatal that includes iron, DHA, and B12.
🛒 Try: MegaFood Baby & Me 2
3. Track Your Symptoms & Cycle
Use a pregnancy journal or app to track morning sickness, fatigue, cravings, and emotions. This helps your care team better support you.
📱 Try: Ovia or What to Expect app.
4. Adjust Your Diet and Hydration
Focus on real, whole foods and aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Protein and complex carbs will help curb nausea.
🛒 Keep a cute water tracker bottle by your side.
5. Get Familiar with Pregnancy-Safe Medications
Some over-the-counter meds are not safe during pregnancy. Bookmark a list or ask your provider.
📖 Resource: Cleveland Clinic’s guide to safe pregnancy medications
6. Start a Sleep Routine Now
Good sleep may get harder as pregnancy progresses. Start building strong habits now with regular bedtimes and a comfy setup.
🛒 Worth it: Pregnancy body pillow for better side sleeping.
7. Understand Attachment and Bonding
Even in early pregnancy, your mental and emotional state affects bonding. Start learning how to nurture secure attachment.
📚 Read next: Why Understanding Attachment Theory Is Important in Parenting
8. Limit Toxins and Upgrade Household Products
Switch to fragrance-free, non-toxic, or eco-friendly options — especially for cleaners, lotions, and laundry products.
🛒 Consider: Eco-friendly cleaning kit
📚 Check out: What to Put on Your Eco-Friendly Baby Registry
9. Start Documenting the Journey
Snap your first bump photo, start a pregnancy scrapbook, or keep a simple notes app log. These moments will fly by.
📸 Pro Tip: Use weekly chalkboard signs for cute updates.
10. Tell Your Inner Circle (or Not!)
There’s no right time — just your time. Whether you wait until the second trimester or tell your bestie tomorrow, make sure it feels right for you.
11. Prepare for Symptoms Like Nausea or Fatigue
Stock up on ginger candies, salty snacks, and crackers. Keep a small stash by your bed for morning relief.
🛒 Grab: Ginger nausea drops
12. Read Up on What to Expect
Learn what’s happening week-by-week in your body. Staying informed reduces anxiety and helps you ask the right questions.
📚 Try: What to Expect When You’re Expecting or a pregnancy newsletter.
📖 Browse: 4 Ways Caregivers Can Soothe a Crying Baby
13. Start a Financial Plan
Kids cost money — start thinking about maternity leave, insurance coverage, and baby budgeting.
🛠 Use: A free printable budget or savings tracker.
14. Begin Researching Baby Names
It’s never too early to brainstorm names you love.
📚 Inspiration:
• Brazilian Boy Names
• Book Review: I Love My Little Brother
15. Create a Teething Toy Wishlist
Yes, it’s early — but when the registry panic hits, you’ll thank yourself for bookmarking favorites.
🛒 Browse: Best Teething Toys for Babies
❓ First Trimester Pregnancy Checklist – FAQ
When should I start a first trimester pregnancy checklist?
Start as soon as you get a positive pregnancy test. This ensures you don’t miss early appointments and gives you time to prepare both mentally and physically.
What should I avoid in the first trimester?
Avoid alcohol, smoking, unpasteurized foods, excessive caffeine, and raw fish. Also limit stress and try to stick to safe physical activity.
What are the most important things to do in early pregnancy?
Booking a prenatal appointment, starting prenatal vitamins, eating well, and learning about safe medications are top priorities.
Can I exercise during the first trimester?
Yes, if your doctor approves. Gentle movement like walking, stretching, and prenatal yoga can help with fatigue and mood.
Is it safe to travel in the first trimester?
Generally yes, but always check with your provider. Be cautious with long flights or locations without easy medical access.
💬 Final Thoughts: First Trimester Is Just the Beginning
The first trimester can be exhausting, exciting, and emotional — but with this first trimester pregnancy checklist in hand, you’re more than ready. Prioritize your well-being, gather your support team, and take it one day at a time. You’ve got this.