Tips for the 1st and 2nd month of your pregnancy (weeks 1-8)
Mirthe GrootenThe first two months of your pregnancy may be invisible to the outside world, but so much is happening inside your body. Hormones are raging, you might feel exhausted or nauseous, and meanwhile, the foundation is being laid for a new life.
Self-care is more important now than ever. Your body needs rest, gentleness, and above all, kindness. In this blog post, we'll explain what's happening to you, what's happening to your baby, and offer self-care tips to help.
What's happening to you?
- Nausea: Morning sickness – which often lasts all day – is a common symptom
- Extreme fatigue: Your body is working incredibly hard behind the scenes, including on the development of the placenta. No wonder you're so tired.
- Sore or tender breasts: Your body is already preparing for breastfeeding.
- Mood swings: The hormonal rollercoaster can send your emotions in all directions.
- Frequent urination: Due to hormones and because your uterus is already starting to grow
Find out here: 'Bye bye, heartburn & bloating: tips for during pregnancy'
What's happening to your baby?
In this phase, the fertilized egg develops into an embryo. The heart begins to beat around week 6, and the first organs develop. A miracle in the making.
Self-care for this phase: Calm, acceptance & gentleness
Rest is not a luxury, it is a necessity
- Make your bed a haven of rest : Think soft pajamas, comfortable sheets and a nice bathrobe
- Sleep, sleep, sleep: Early to bed, afternoon naps, canceling appointments. Anything for recovery.
Nausea & digestion
- Eat what you can, in small portions: Rice cakes, almonds, banana – whatever you can manage.
- Ginger tea : Homemade with fresh ginger slices. Perfect in a beautiful mug.
- Fresh air & scent softening: Open your windows. Consider using a diffuser with a gentle citrus oil (such as lemon or mandarin).
Stay hydrated
- H2O is your best friend: Keep a nice water bottle handy. Add mint, lemon, or cucumber for a refreshing taste.
Emotional self-care
- Share your feelings : With your partner, a friend or someone else you trust.
- Meditation or mindfulness: Use apps like Calm or Expectful for short relaxation sessions.
- Journaling : Write down your thoughts daily (or occasionally).
- Preparation and planning : Sometimes it helps to prepare yourself for what's to come. Want to do this in an organized and sustainable way? Then check out our digital pregnancy planners (with journal, budget planner and much more).
Comfortable clothing
- Soft lingerie: No underwires, but with support.
- Loose-fitting clothing: Soft, breathable fabrics. Now it's all about your comfort.
These first few months can be overwhelming. You might not immediately feel joy or energy—and that's perfectly okay. Give yourself space to adjust to this new phase. By taking good care of yourself, you'll also give your baby the best start.
Want to know more about the first trimester? Then read " The First Trimester – The Start of Your Pregnancy Journey"
And remember. You are not alone. Lots of love, My Sanctum.
Discover our digital pregnancy planners