Let’s talk about this time because I have a hunch that we’re lacking support in a really big way.
Some might say this could apply throughout the trajectory of the perinatal time, but today I want to address the first trimester. 
This can be a window of overwhelming change, erratic emotions, adjustment and sometimes fear.
In working with women throughout the years, one thing is crystal clear. We need more support during these first few months. Initially I thought that there were primarily three main areas of concern: body image, nutrition and exercise.
But that just scratches the surface! Here are some of the concerns I hear about in these early weeks and months:
- Body Image—Your body may feel so different suddenly! The bloating, the constipation, the not-really-looking-pregnant phase that can feel so uncomfortable as your old wardrobe hugs and grabs in all the wrong places!
- Nutrition—What to eat? Veggies suddenly are repulsive, proteins make you gag… so, how to keep anything down and how to keep from only eating starchy carbs when nausea is so unrelenting?!
- Exercise—How do you go from doing what you were doing prior to pregnancy to prenatal workouts? How do you know the proper exertion level? Or if you should push through fatigue to get in the workout or if you really need to rest?
And in brief…
- Change in role—at home, with your partner, within your larger family, at work, among friends…
- Sharing your body with another being—Yikes!
- The direct impact of your decisions on that little one growing within
- Fears, anxieties of how life will change overall
- Financial concerns
- Fears around how this will impact job and potential earning power
- Lack of support system
- Family/extended family drama
- Pressure not to share the news of pregnancy with work, family, friends until…
- Feelings of isolation
- Excitement, but cautious excitement because…what if?
I could go on, but you get the idea! And, in the meantime, you might be feeling scared and alone. Left to do your own research on the internet, in books…and we all know how overwhelming that can feel.
An internet search on exercise in pregnancy for example, will populate page after page of exercise recommendations—each with their own take on what’s safe, important to include, what to avoid etc.
So during this early time in pregnancy, when questions abound and you’re waiting for your first prenatal appointment, you might also find yourself waiting to get hooked into a prenatal community once you “feel” or “look” more pregnant.
But, I say, why wait?!
Why not begin building your prenatal community around you from the start?
At Bodies for Birth, I’m happy to report that over the years, I’ve seen an increased number or first trimester clients attending classes and one-on-ones! And, I’m thrilled each time.
I’m thrilled for their proactive approach, I’m thrilled knowing that they will find support, motivation, create friendships and feel less isolated. Not to mention, will likely feel much better from the exercise, of course.
So, if you’re in those early weeks, don’t hesitate to reach out and join us! Even if you’re on the fence about starting classes or individual training sessions, just come in for your initial Concierge Service.
This session was designed to set you up for success throughout your pregnancy!
- We’ll review prenatal exercise guidelines, discuss how to modify your current routine or if that’s even necessary.
- We’ll review alignment and diaphragmatic breathing as well as safe ways to train the core in pregnancy.
- We’ll discuss resources in the community and outline what an individualized program might look like for you!
- I’ll do my best to answer all of your burning questions about exercise in pregnancy and postpartum recovery too!
My aim is for you to leave feeling more empowered and confident in your body and prenatal journey!
Where else can we find support in the first trimester? Have a great resource you’d like to share? If you have an individual or service that you’d like the community to know about, please reach out and let me know! maura@bodiesforbirth.com
I’ll be happy to add their information to the Resources page in an effort to provide holistic support to all!
Want to learn more about Bodies for Birth and what we offer? Get started here!
Look forward to seeing you all soon!