Safer first trimester: Simple early pregnancy tips every expecting mum should follow

Early pregnancy care, including prenatal visits, supplements, healthy eating, avoiding risks, and listening to your body, helps mums-to-be reduce risks and support a healthy, safe first trimester for baby and mum (Image: Canva)

Are you a soon-to-be mum who’s excited but also a bit anxious? The early weeks of pregnancy can feel like an emotional roller coaster. One minute you’re over the moon, imagining all the wonderful things to come. The next, you might feel sick, exhausted, or find yourself wide awake at 2am, worrying and searching online about every little symptom.

 
Early pregnancy is a mix of joy and nerves, but with the right care and support, you can soon feel more settled and confident, says Dr. Rana Choudhary, Consultant, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. “Having mixed feelings is totally normal during pregnancy because your body is going through big changes and your mind is trying to make sense of it all. What really matters in those early weeks is taking the right steps to reduce risks,” Dr Choudhary says  and adds, “No pregnancy is without risk, but early, thoughtful care can go a long way in protecting both mum and baby.”

 
The first trimester is when most of the baby’s vital organs begin to form, and that’s why it’s a critical period. Dr. Choudhary explains, “Early blood work and ultrasounds help detect conditions like thyroid disease, diabetes, or infections that can affect pregnancy. Imaging also rules out ectopic pregnancies,”

 
Even before that baby bump shows, your everyday habits start shaping your pregnancy. “You cannot ignore symptoms like spotting, cramps, or dizziness,” says Dr. Choudhary. Paying attention to what your body is telling you, and acting on it, can make all the difference. “A healthy pregnancy starts with being informed, listening to your body, and knowing when to seek support,”
Dr Choudhary suggests easy  steps to reduce early pregnancy risks:

 
Begin prenatal care early: Book your first check-up as soon as you confirm pregnancy. Early scans and tests help identify issues that may affect your pregnancy and allow for early treatment.
Take folic acid and doctor-prescribed supplements: Folic acid before and during early pregnancy helps prevent serious birth defects. Your doctor may suggest additional vitamins based on your medical history.

 
Avoid alcohol, smoking, harmful substances: Tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Even too much caffeine isn’t ideal—keep it moderate.
Eat a balanced, nutritious diet: A diet rich in protein, iron, folate, and calcium supports both your baby’s development and your energy levels. Stay hydrated, too.
Don’t self-prescribe any medication: “Use drugs carefully. Don’t self-prescribe,” warns Dr. Choudhary. Always check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medicine or supplement.

 
Listen to your body’s warning signs: Unusual tiredness, light bleeding, or cramps shouldn’t be brushed off. Early medical attention can help avoid complications later.
Prioritise mental wellbeing: “Prolonged stress can wreak havoc on hormones,” says Dr. Choudhary. Get enough sleep, practice relaxation techniques, and ask for emotional support when needed.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.