Happy Friday!
Today, I will answer all of your questions about my first trimester and all things pregnancy! It’s been so much easier to get on here and blog after announcing the exciting news. Now that symptoms are finally easing up in my second trimester, I hope to get some holiday recipes up, gift guides, and a few home update blogs. I started to think I would never feel like myself again, but things are finally looking up. If I missed any of the questions that you want to be answered, leave them in the comments, and I’ll respond back! 😊
My First Trimester Recap + a Q&A
Planned or Surprised?
We were definitely planning this pregnancy. Kyle and I have had “baby fever” for the past two years. We wanted to build a home big enough for a family, have all our finances in order, and then start trying. At the beginning of our relationship, we never talked about having kids. We were both so content with where our lives were at, but things just changed. We couldn’t wait to start a family, and we were both very ready.
Are you showing at all?
I finally started showing a few weeks ago! I thought something was wrong with me because I saw baby bumps on people who were ten weeks pregnant. I learned quickly NEVER to compare pregnancies or bodies. But yes, finally showing and having a hard time zipping up my pants. I purchased an extender for my jeans to make things a bit easier! I wanted to buy some maternity jeans from Old Navy, but I have no idea where to start with sizing. I may have to order a ton and try them all on. Maternity clothes are so confusing. I’ll try to post things that I have loved along the way.
Are you having any food aversions?
This has been the WORST. They are getting MUCH better, but the first thirteen weeks of pregnancy were terrible with food aversions. They would change daily, which meant if one day I liked having pizza, the next day, I would see it in my fridge and run to go throw up. The food aversions would prevent me from going to grocery stores, walking into my pantry, opening the refrigerator, or even hearing about what someone ate would have me running to the bathroom. I’m so happy they have settled down. Commercials still trigger me, but we’re getting better. Oh and coffee? I HATE IT! Haven’t had it in three months +
What are some of the uncomfortable side effects you’re having?
A few of the side effects have gone down this past week, but some of the worst that I didn’t plan for was dysgeusia, which makes it taste like pennies and sour patch kids are in my mouth at the same time. It also causes nausea because of how bad the taste is. It has finally gotten better, but I was worried I would have to deal with that my entire pregnancy, which scared me. Nausea and vomiting have been terrible, being out of breath just walking up the stairs, mild insomnia if I don’t take Unisom, migraines, and swollen gums. I had to call my dentist yesterday because my gums are so swollen that some of them are covering my teeth. I thought it was from over-brushing, but it’s a symptom of the hormones causing blood to rush to the gums. Pregnancy is filled with fun symptoms!
What are you most excited about when it comes to motherhood?
Am I allowed to say everything?
Do you have any fears about becoming a mom?
Gosh, yes! I can prepare myself the best I can, ask for help when I need it, and understand that motherhood isn’t perfect. Kyle is such an incredible partner, and I feel lucky to have him by my side through all of it.
How are you feeling right now?
Better. I probably would have started crying if you had asked me how I was feeling a few weeks ago. I hated when people told me that things would get better because I didn’t believe them. Now I do.
Did you use any apps to track your cycle before getting pregnant?
I used the FLO app to track my periods and ovulation for about five months. I wanted to track which days I was most fertile and see how accurate it was each month. I had a lot of stress before the wedding, especially grieving the loss of Grumples. My periods started to hop all over the place, so I wanted to do everything I could to track them properly. There were so many things about ovulation and getting pregnant that I had NO IDEA about, and I bet many of you are in the same boat as me. I thought I knew, but it was so much more complex. I watched a science video on YouTube that I think helped me the most when it came to an understanding of “how to get pregnant” because it’s not just about having intercourse. I know that’s going to sound strange, but timing is everything. Laugh now, but watch the video, and you’ll be amazed too! lol
Were you scared about having endometriosis and getting pregnant?
Absolutely. I have had many appointments with OBGYNS about endometriosis and pregnancy. I had a few ultrasounds before planning the pregnancy, and my doctors gave me the green light. My charts looked good, I was doing everything right, I never took birth control that would harm my body, and my doctor told me that getting pregnant could help me shed some of the tissue from having endometriosis. I have a few family members with endometriosis that have never had issues with having kids. I didn’t let it stress me out and chose to remain positive.
How many children do you want in total?
Kyle and I each come from a family of four, so we’re very familiar with that dynamic. I think we’ll stop at two (God willing.)
What have you been taking for sickness?
I have tried all the natural remedies! Ginger, preggo pops, lemon heads, ginger ale, essential oils, etc. The only things that have helped me at all have been Unisom and B6 before bed and Zofran on the days that I can’t keep anything down. The sickness sometimes lasts from 5 am until I go to bed at night. Everything started getting a little easier at week 15 as long as I could keep my medicine down at night! I tried to stop taking it a few nights ago to see if my body needed it, but that was a bad idea. I had a hard time keeping anything down and had to resort back to Zofran (which I only take in emergency cases.) Also…Diet Coke. I KNOW, I KNOW. But so many people messaged me telling me that Diet Coke saved them!
How did you tell Kyle?
Since Kyle and I were trying, we agreed to take a test together. He didn’t want me to surprise him, and he wanted to know at the same time. He thought it would be much more special finding out together, and I so agree! Sharing that moment was so magical.
What is the strangest craving you’ve had so far?
Imitation crab meat! It’s something I loved as a kid, but it’s such a weird craving I have!
Have you started on the nursery yet?
Yes! I always share sneak peeks on Instagram. We are doing a puppy dog-themed 😊 We wanted to start early on the nursery and work on getting something done each week that way, we aren’t in a rush later on in the pregnancy.
What is one piece of advice for someone else going through a challenging pregnancy?
DO NOT compare your pregnancy, body, or current lifestyle to anyone else. I had to unfollow a few popular bloggers who are currently pregnant. It wasn’t because I didn’t like them, but I wouldn’t stop comparing myself to them, and I got angry at times. I would see them out doing things after I just finished throwing up, or they’d be eating food that made my stomach churn, and they’d share bump pictures looking six months pregnant, and I’d start two worry about myself. Their easy and healthy-nut pregnancies just “pissed me off” for no reason. 😆 I will eventually re-follow them because I like them, but if you find yourself comparing, remove yourself from the situation! Also, take people’s advice with a grain of salt because you know your body more than anyone. I’ve also been better about leaning on Kyle for help. My love language is acts of service and giving. I love to do little things around the house, cook and do little surprises. I have completely shifted and have leaned on him for helping with the dogs, getting groceries, cleaning, and asking for something even if I feel “needy.” You can’t do it all!
Will you share photos of your children online?
I shared my thoughts about motherhood and blogging during my announcement blog! You can read that here.
How did you tell your family you were pregnant?
We told a lot of our family on FaceTime since they live in different states! We told my mom and dad during my mom’s birthday dinner with fake lottery tickets, and it was so much fun!
Did you tell your friends before announcing?
Absolutely! I told my closest friends weeks before announcing on social media. I think chatting with them about struggles or having them understand why I was so distant made it easier. You can only say “no” so many times before people start wondering what the heck is up!
Which prenatal are you using?
I was using Pink Stork gummies, but I started to have aversions and gag every time I chewed them. Now, I’m taking the One-a-Day prenatal. I find them so much easier to handle. I was also taking the Smarty Pants ones for a while, but something about the vitamin taste in the gummies didn’t sit well with me.
What were your very first symptoms before testing positive?
I had shortness of breath on my walks, mild cramping, moodiness (like crying over anything), I was so thirsty, constantly having to pee, and so tired. We walked through an outdoor nursery when it was like 90-degrees out while Kyle’s mom was visiting. She didn’t know I was pregnant, and I sat on a bench under a tree and fell asleep. I could sleep for days if someone let me. The first pregnancy symptoms are very similar to your period, so it’s all confusing around that time.
Do you think your dogs know you’re pregnant?
I have a feeling Tux can sense it because he runs up to me in the yard and sniffs my stomach when I bend down to him. Leo is oblivious to everything 😆 He has no idea! I am working with him on boundaries right now.
Are you going on a babymoon?
We would like to! Let me know some good spots we should look at traveling to. I’m thinking warm and relaxing!
Is Kyle allowed to go to your appointments with you?
Yes! I’m allowed to have one person with me during appointments!
Are you hiring a Doula?
Nope. It’s just going to be Kyle and me. We have a few classes lined up to help us prepare, though!
Epidural or natural?
EPIDURAL!
Will you breastfeed?
If I am able! I would love to know all of the breastfeeding advice and what pumps you loved. I am so overwhelmed with everything right now.
What changes did you make before getting pregnant?
I was eating SO HEALTHY and balanced. I ate salmon, vegetables, fruits, nuts, yogurt, lemon water, and I cut down my sugar. I kept walking 3-5 miles a day and started taking prenatal gummies right after the wedding. I also started drinking half-calf coffee, which cut my coffee intake down to 48 mg a day. I’ve never been a big drinker but will sip the occasional wine if at a party or if it was offered at dinner, so that wasn’t a problem for me. I can’t tell you the last time I finished a glass of wine, but I’m just a dessert over wine type of gal.
How are you maintaining a healthy diet while pregnant?
HAHAHA! The biggest lie I told myself. “I am going to eat so healthily while pregnant.” The first few weeks started great. I had no issue with eating healthy, but then food aversions and sickness happened all of a sudden. I ate for survival. Right now, I’m slowly introducing eggs and avocado toast back into my morning breakfast, and it sounds good. I started eating spaghetti squash, and fruits don’t repulse me as much anymore. I think I’ll be able to eat healthier as the pregnancy goes on because it truly is essential!
Are you worried about your body changing?
So many people asked this question. NOT AT ALL. I have been in such a positive place with my body for the past few years. I live a healthy lifestyle the best I can, and I plan to do that even after I have my baby. I KNOW my body will change, and I won’t “bounce back” like the average person, but having a baby is so much more incredible and exciting, and my body bouncing back is the least of my worries. It makes me sad seeing people try so hard to diet and lose pounds after having a baby. If you put too much focus there, you won’t put your focus on what’s important! Celebrating your baby and soaking up all the moments while they’re young is so important. I plan to go on walks, stay active, and be a good example, but that’s as far as I’ll go!
Are you still exercising?
I’m walking on days when I feel good (and days when I don’t because Leo lays by the door with his leash.) I plan to join a local prenatal yoga class as soon as my “throwing up” is under control! I’m terrified of joining a class and then having to throw up. It’s my biggest fear right now.
Are you having a boy or a girl?
We are waiting until birth to find out!
Do you have then names picked out?
We have our girl name picked out for sure! We still go back and forth with the boys names. We have some good contenders.
Will you be sharing baby products and gift guides?
I will share products that I love and maternity products!
I appreciate all the sweet messages and comments you have sent me so far! The honesty in my DMs has been so comforting.
Questions for you!
- What questions did I miss?
- Newborn products I need to add to my list?
- What is one piece of advice that prepared you for pregnancy/birth?
Samantha says
Research how to breastfeed! http://Www.momsmartnothard.com prepared me for breastfeeding! I did it for 14 months with my first and I’m currently on month 3 with my 2nd born! After you give birth you have no idea what you’re doing and usually you’re exhausted. So if you have a general idea of how to breastfeed before you give birth (holds, feeding times etc) it’ll make the transition so much easier! Congratulations!!
Sarah says
This is so exciting! Glad you are feeling better and starting to maybe enjoy pregnancy more.
When is your due date?
Jessica says
Those one a day vitamins made me have a penny taste in my mouth! But my stomach couldn’t handle anything else. I eventually needed a prescription for Prenate Pixie vitamin because the penny taste was unbearable!
Taralynn says
That is interesting!!! I may have to look into that.
Kaitlin says
If you haven’t already, make sure you follow Karrie Locher on Instagram! She is amazing on all things postpartum including breastfeeding! Congrats, you will be a great mom! 🙂
Kate says
As far as breastfeeding goes (I breastfed my first for 20 months and baby 2 is quickly approaching 24 months and still going strong!), reach out to the lactation consultants at the hospital! They were SO helpful with my first. And don’t get discouraged if it takes you a little while to get it. You’ll both settle into it around month 3. Also, prepare yourself to be engorged when your milk comes in…hot showers and massage helps. I got the medela pump with my first and the spectra with #2. Hands down…spectra was the winner!
Go easy on yourself the first few weeks and soak up all of those baby snuggles. And ENJOY the next few weeks with Kyle. I look back on the last few weeks of my first pregnancy so fondly. It’s such a special time!
im says
How long were you & Kyle actively trying before you got pregnant?
Kyla says
Hi Taralynn!
You should follow Karrie Locher on Instagram if you don’t already, she also has a great breastfeeding course. It’s so overwhelming all the info and classes out there but I found her to be the best resource for breastfeeding personally.
jaycee says
Just popping by to say congrats! Echoing the above comment to learn as much as you can about breastfeeding – I felt like no one really told me this, but can be HARD. Get as much support as you can, line up a lactation consultant if your hospital/provider doesn’t already have referrals. You’ll be glad you did. The birth is one day, but breastfeeding, if you choose to do it, is a months long journey.
A note on pregnancy nausea – give acupuncture a try. It helped me a lot. And don’t go nuts buying maternity-specific clothing – I regret many things I bought because I just didn’t need them and I spent far too much time looking for maternity clothes in my style. I carried my bump small, and wore most of my regular clothes with no issues. Then again, I also lived Lululemon leggings for the third trimester. So your mileage may vary.
Claudia CC says
I felt like this was my diary entry as I was reading. Just three months pregnant yet all those symptoms are ever so present. To this point I don’t have many positive thoughts about pregnancy only because I’ve been feeling so bad and now everyday headaches have decided to join. 🙁 when does it actually start to get better… If ever…
Congratulations BTW, loved reading your insights ❤️
Taralynn says
Hang in there, Claudia!
Samantha says
Do not stress yourself out with breastfeeding, if you can do it, great, but some mommas can’t and that’s okay! Formula is just fine as well. I breastfed my daughter for six months and my anxiety level was so high (I have adhd and without my medication it was he**) — I went to formula and my daughter is happy and healthy.
Isabella okumu says
I have not experienced anything from morning sickness to food aversion etc I just wat h my bump grow eat my fruits,foods as normal, I just don’t any if anyone has had the same.
Sami says
I know you have struggled with anemia and so have I and pregnancy has made mine so much worse that it made me very tired and depressed. I couldn’t keep iron pills down and when I could I feel like my body didn’t absorb it well. I ended up getting iron infusions and it instantly helped! My hemoglobin was always fine but they always check my ferritin now and that’s how we found out how anemic I actually was! I just wanted to tell you jusy in case you end up having the same problem!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Sami!!
Patricia L says
I breastfed for 18 months with my son. My personal experience was don’t give up until you hit 3 months. It’s hard and challenging and seems super inconvenient at first but by month 3 you’ll be a super pro and you’ll be glad you stuck it out. We never even had a diaper bag. We had a few spare diapers in the car and that’s it. Let preparing and it gives you such a special bond. However I didn’t breastfeed my daughter and that was the right decision for when I had her. Either way you’re going to be an amazing mother!
Caryn says
Hey Taralynn!
Great post! I was wondering, did you have migraines before pregnancy and what do you do when you get a migraine now that you’re pregnant? Also, how much unisom and B6 did your doctor suggest for the morning sickness?
Thanks,
Caryn
Taralynn says
I only got migraines after taking zofran! I usually just took a nap and it helped.
My doctor recommended 50 mg B6 twice a day and at night I took my. 50mg with one unisom tablet, but make sure to talk to your doctor first!
Alden Green says
Congratulations! I have read your blog almost since the beginning. I just had a baby in August. The Thompson Method course saved my breastfeeding journey. I HIGHLY recommend watching it around 36 weeks. For some reason I waited until after the birth which is silly.
Madison says
I just had my first baby 10 weeks ago so it’s all fresh in my mind of what you might want to look into buying!
– the Ollie swaddle
– Taking Cara Babies newborn class
– hatch white noise machine
– brestfriend breastfeeding pillow or a boppy pillow
– spectra s2 pump
– gerbers soothe probiotic drops
These were all lifesavers for me! I’m so excited for you!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Madison!!
Amanda Peterson says
First off, Congratulations!!!! I luckily never experienced nausea to your extreme, but I am glad it’s beginning to subside and you’re entering into a stage of pregnancy that is enjoyable. My daughter is 21 months old and I STILL miss feeling her in my belly!
I breastfed for 7 months and exclusively pumped after that until 13 months. The Spectra (BLUE MODEL!) is THE BEST by far. Your insurance will probably cover the pink one for free, but it’s worth the extra to get the blue so you don’t have to be plugged into a wall all the time.
Some newborn essentials I swore by: Halo sleep sacks. Jammies that ZIP, not snap. a sturdy baby carrier. Wubbanub pacifiers (they’re so cute and easy for baby to find at night). Infant Tylenol and Motrin to keep on hand, you never know when you’ll need it! A sound machine that does not run on batteries. Fisher Price baby swing. OXO Perfect-Pull Wipes dispenser makes diaper changing a breeze. If you’re a Costco member, Kirkland diapers and wipes are AWESOME and cheaper than Pampers or Huggies.
Loving your new Mommy/Pregnancy content, so keep it coming! 🙂
Erin says
I have 3 sweet kiddos. We found out the gender with my first 2, but not with the 3rd. It was so exciting to not know and having that true surprise. I wish I had done that with my girls. I encourage all friends and family who are pregnant to not find out because it truly is magical! You will love this precious moment to savor with Kyle. I know my husband and I did. It was just us and our little man all to ourselves for a couple of hours before anyone knew. Congratulations!