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.
- 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 post is part of the Church & Dwight ambassador program. All opinions are my own
Great tips! I know quite a few who haven’t had as smooth a journey as I have.
Of course I just had to look to see what LH is! I had never heard of that before. Interesting! Great post full of good advice. Thanks for sharing!
So many important and helpful tips for planning for baby!
Having a baby is such an amazing part of your life. Love all of your tips to ensure all goes smoothly!
This is all such great advice. I remember how scary it was!
This transition can be tough. These reminders of what to do are awesome.
My husband and I let nature take its course in regards to my second pregnancy. The only concern I had with my cycle was that I wasn’t ovulating after going off of the pill and had to go on medication to get my everything back on track.
There are a lot of great products here to help with fertility. When we were trying to get pregnant, the only things on the market were pregnancy tests.
I remember those days when we were TTC. Such fond memories of little babies!
I remember back when we were TTC! It took a lot of for us to have a baby, but once we did it was the best time in our lives! I savor every minute I get with my kiddo each day!
I’m not a first time Mom but I remember the first time I found Ovol drops, they were a lifesaver. I always recommend it to new Mom’s now.
Great tips! Those ovulation tests can be invaluable in figuring out your cycle and the best time to conceive.
Being able to keep track of your cycle is super helpful. It’s good to do some planning and research on pregnancy too!
Great tips for first time moms. Navigating your firsts in motherhood can be a bit scary.
I have a friend that is using the First Response Digital Ovulation Test to try to get pregnant. It is important to try to prepare as much as you can before you have your baby.
I have a period tracker I have been using for years. It is such a great way to keep track of my cycle.
This is a great post. I will have to share this with my Sister. She is planning on trying to get pregnant soon.
Oooooh those sleepless nights. The only difference now is that they come in at 4am instead of me having to shuffle into a nursery! LOL But you know…I’d never change a thing. Thanks for such great tips down memory lane!
Love first response. I used them during my ttc journey with Hanna and the 2 babies I lost before her. Great brand and one I really trust!
I wish I had all this info when I was having my kids especially my second because I had trouble conceiving.
This is great info for future moms-to-be. This is one of my go-to pregnancy test brands.
Very encouraging how many more tools are out there to help plan a family.