The Best Pregnancy Tips for First-Time Moms

Last Update: May 1, 2025

This article was written with help from AI and edited by Thrive Market’s talented team of human writers.

Pregnancy is an unforgettable adventure — especially the first time around. One minute you’re reading baby name lists, the next you’re Googling whether sushi is off-limits and wondering if your cravings for peanut butter at midnight are normal (spoiler: they are).

At Thrive Market, we know that becoming a parent comes with a lot of questions. That’s why we’ve gathered some of the best pregnancy tips for first-time moms, including expert insights, practical advice, and a few small ways to help you feel more supported throughout your pregnancy journey.

1. Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods

A balanced diet is foundational during pregnancy. Incorporating a variety of foods from all food groups ensures you and your baby receive essential nutrients. Focus on:

Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are rich in folate, which supports fetal development.
Whole Grains: Quinoa and brown rice provide fiber and essential B vitamins.
Lean Proteins: Chicken, tofu, and legumes support muscle development.
Dairy or Alternatives: Yogurt and fortified plant-based milks offer calcium for bone health.

For more ideas, check out the best foods to eat while pregnant or breastfeeding.

2. Manage Morning Sickness Naturally

Morning sickness can be challenging, but certain strategies may help alleviate nausea during pregnancy. Here are some tips:

Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Keeping your stomach slightly full can prevent nausea.
Stay Hydrated: Sip on water, herbal teas*, or electrolyte-rich drinks.
Incorporate Ginger: Ginger tea* or candies may help soothe your stomach.
Avoid Strong Odors: Identify and steer clear of scents that trigger nausea.

For additional support, see our guide to pregnancy nausea.

3. Choose the Right Prenatal Supplements

Supplements can help fill nutritional gaps during pregnancy, and choosing the right prenatal vitamin is one of the best tips for a first-time mom. Here are a few things to look for:

Folic Acid: Supports neural tube development.
Iron: Helps helps support red blood cells.
Calcium and Vitamin D: Essential for bone health.
DHA: Supports brain and eye development.

Read more about tips for choosing prenatal vitamins.

4. Stay Active with Gentle Exercises

Regular, moderate exercise can benefit both you and your baby. Things like walking, prenatal yoga, gentle stretching, hiking, and swimming are all great low-impact activities for pregnancy. (Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise during pregnancy.)

5. Support Your Mental Well-being

Pregnancy is a time of emotional and physical change, and many people would say that taking care of your mental health is one of their best tips for first-time moms. Try to:

Practice Mindfulness: Meditation and deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
Seek Support: Connect with other expecting parents or a mental health professional.
Prioritize Rest: Make sleep and relaxation a priority.

6. Prepare for the Postpartum Transition

Planning ahead can ease the shift to life with a newborn. There are a few things you can do to make the transition easier, such as:

Stock up on essentials: Whether you’re registering for a baby shower or just making your own shopping list for new moms, you’ll want to get the essentials together ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about a thing once your baby arrives. Make sure you have things like diapers, wipes, postpartum care items, swaddles, onesies, and burp cloths, and if you plan to breast feed, research the best breast pumps for first-time moms.
Create a support network: If you can, line up help for the early days at home. Ask for help watching your baby while you take a nap, set up a meal train for the days when you can’t cook, or secure a postpartum doula to ease the burden of caring for a newborn.
Make meals ahead of time. In the weeks leading up to your delivery date, prepare a stash of freezer meals that you can reheat when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Don’t miss our New Baby and New Parent Checklist for even more ideas.

7. Make Time for Pregnancy Self-Care

Taking care of yourself isn’t just a luxury during pregnancy; it’s essential. Simple rituals can go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable and connected to your changing body:

Moisturize Your Belly: Using a nourishing belly oil or lotion can help soothe dry or stretching skin.
Get Plenty of Rest: Fatigue is common, so listen to your body and rest when you can.
Enjoy Quiet Moments: Reading, gentle stretching, or a warm (not hot) bath can be grounding ways to unwind and ease your joints and muscles.

8. Understand What to Expect in Labor and Delivery

What week do first-time moms deliver? Do first-time moms deliver early or late? How long does induction take for first-time moms?

You’re likely full of questions about what to expect during labor, especially if it’s your first time. If you’re the type of person who likes to feel prepared, take some time to read books or listen to podcasts about childbirth, create a birth plan, or even take a tour of the hospital where you’ll deliver.

9. Celebrate the Journey

Pregnancy is full of firsts — first heartbeat, first kicks, first time seeing that growing belly in the mirror. These little moments can bring a mix of emotions, from excitement to uncertainty. Wherever you are in your journey, it’s okay to pause, take a breath, and acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Let this time be about connection with your body, your baby, and the people around you. Whether you’re journaling your experience, nesting in your home, or simply resting, small moments of self-compassion and joy can go a long way.

10. Embrace the Unexpected

From shifting emotions to surprise cravings and changing body rhythms, every pregnancy unfolds a little differently. Lean on trusted sources, listen to your body, and take it one day at a time.

Whether you’re searching for pregnancy tips, early pregnancy tips, or advice for first-time moms, Thrive Market is here to support you with resources, expert-backed content, and carefully curated essentials delivered to your door.

*Consult your healthcare provider before using this product during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.

This article is related to:

Baby Care, Pregnancy

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