First trimester checklist: health, food, work and feelings

The test is positive and you have a hundred questions. This post does not explain facts; it shows what you can do, step by step, in the first three months. Take what suits you and leave the rest.

Health: appointments and tests

• Book your first antenatal visit. According to the Turkish Ministry of Health guideline, the first visit usually takes place within the first 14 weeks. Contacting your family doctor or obstetrician early makes things easier.
• Be ready for tests your doctor may request, such as blood group and Rh, a blood count, urine test, infection screening and a thyroid test. Your doctor decides which are right for you.
• An early ultrasound is often planned between weeks 6 and 10, and the nuchal translucency scan with combined screening is usually between weeks 11 and 14. You can think in advance about which screening tests you do or do not want.
• Folic acid and other supplements: take the vitamins your doctor recommends regularly, and do not add medicines or herbal products on your own.
• Tell your doctor at the first visit about any regular medicines and long-term conditions.

Food and movement

• If you feel nauseous, small frequent meals, something dry first thing in the morning and plenty of fluids help many people.
• Review the general safety rules on raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurised dairy and alcohol. For any food you are unsure about, you can check the Can I eat it? section in the app.
• Light movement such as walking suits most people; if tiredness hits, resting is part of the job.
• Do not hesitate to ask for help to stop smoking or drinking; your family doctor can point you to support.

Work and rights

• If your job involves chemicals, heavy lifting or long hours on your feet, note them down and talk to your doctor. See the guide article on working life for details.
• When you share the news is your choice; there is no need to hurry.
• Maternity leave and other rights will matter in the coming months; for now it is enough to know whom to ask in HR.

Preparation and shopping

It is too early for baby items. Comfortable underwear, loose trousers or snacks to carry for nausea are more useful now. A small savings plan can help later.

Emotional care

• Joy, fear and uncertainty can all arrive on the same day. These are common feelings in pregnancy.
• Protect your sleep; short 15–20 minute breaks during the day help.
• If you want to talk to someone, do. If you do not, staying quiet is also a choice.

A short list for your partner

• Offer to come to appointments.
• Take over cooking and chores on nauseous days.
• Do not take mood swings personally; ask “what can I do?”

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to do everything on the list? No. The list is a pool of suggestions; you and your doctor decide which apply to you. On tired days, focusing only on appointments and rest is enough.

Can I keep exercising early on? Many people can keep up light to moderate movement. If you trained intensively before, share your routine at the first visit and listen to your body’s signals.

Should I start shopping for the baby in the first three months? It is not required. Many families find shopping easier in the second trimester once nausea and tiredness ease. You can still start writing a list now.

When to contact your doctor

• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Noticeable vaginal bleeding
• Vomiting so persistent that you cannot keep fluids down
• High fever or feeling faint

In an emergency call 112 (in Turkey) or your local emergency number. Adapt this list to yourself; for your personal situation your doctor’s advice comes first.