Your first step is selecting the right provider for your pregnancy care. Once your pregnancy is confirmed with a home test and a blood test, you are ready to schedule your first prenatal appointment. Be sure to check that your provider is covered by your insurance before booking.

OB-GYN
An OB-GYN is a medical doctors trained in pregnancy, childbirth, and women’s health. They are trained to manage both routine and high-risk pregnancies and can perform medical procedures, including C-sections. Care with an OB-GYN tends to be more clinical and focused on monitoring and managing potential complications.

Midwife
A midwife, often a certified nurse midwife, is an advanced practice provider who specializes in low-risk pregnancies and childbirth. Midwives focus on a more personalized, supportive approach, emphasizing education, natural birth options, and continuous care throughout pregnancy and postpartum.

The first trimester is a time of rapid change as your body begins to support your baby’s development. While it can feel overwhelming, understanding what’s happening can help you feel more prepared and confident. Starting a daily prenatal vitamin with folic acid is one of the most important things you can do right now.

Caring for mom
Hormonal changes may bring fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness, frequent urination, and mood swings. It’s common to feel both excited and anxious during this stage.

Baby’s growth
Your baby’s major organs and systems begin to form, including the brain, heart, and spine. By the end of this trimester, your baby has a heartbeat and developing arms, legs, fingers, and toes.

The second trimester is often the most comfortable phase of pregnancy. Many early symptoms begin to ease, and you may start to feel more energized and connected to your pregnancy.

Caring for mom
Energy levels typically improve, nausea decreases, and your belly begins to grow. You may feel your baby’s first movements, often described as fluttering.

Baby’s growth
Your baby grows rapidly, develops more defined features, and becomes more active. You may even be able to learn your baby’s sex during this time.

The final stage of pregnancy focuses on your baby’s growth and preparing both of you for birth. Your care team will closely monitor both you and your baby to ensure everything is progressing safely.

Caring for mom
You may experience increased discomfort such as back pain, swelling, trouble sleeping, and shortness of breath. You may also notice Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions as your body prepares for labor. Prenatal visits become more frequent as your care team closely monitors your health.

Baby’s growth
Your baby gains weight quickly and continues developing essential functions, especially lung maturity. Most babies move into a head-down position in preparation for birth. Your baby is also becoming more responsive to light, sound, and touch.

Labor and delivery is the final stage of your pregnancy, when your baby arrives and a new chapter begins. Your care team will be with you every step of the way, focused on providing a safe, supportive, and positive experience.

Labor often begins with regular contractions that grow stronger and closer together. Your team will guide you through each stage of labor, supporting your birth plan whether you choose a natural approach, pain relief such as an epidural, or a cesarean delivery if needed.

The weeks after birth are a time of healing, adjustment, and bonding with your baby. Your body begins to recover from pregnancy and delivery while you learn your newborn’s needs and rhythms. It’s normal to experience physical changes such as soreness, fatigue, and hormonal shifts, along with a wide range of emotions.

Your care during this stage focuses on both physical recovery and emotional well-being. Follow-up visits with your provider help monitor healing, address any concerns, and support your transition into postpartum life. You’ll also receive guidance on feeding, sleep, and newborn care to help you feel more confident at home.

Support continues beyond delivery with resources for breastfeeding, mental health, and ongoing care for both you and your baby. Whether you need reassurance, education, or additional support, your care team is here to help you navigate this new chapter with confidence and care.