If you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted or just full of butterflies over what is to come, here's our practical guide to navigating sleep, nausea and energy in early pregnancy, so you don't feel like you're doing it solo.
In the first trimester, your progesterone levels skyrocket, which can leave you feeling more tired than you ever thought possible. Think of it as your body's way of making sure you slow down while it performs the pretty heroic task of growing a whole placenta.
Can't nap?
Despite the name, pregnancy nausea doesn't check the clock. It can strike morning, noon, or right when you're trying to fall asleep. The key is keeping your energy stable so those queasy waves don't knock you sideways.
The first trimester is often the "quiet" phase of pregnancy, but that doesn't mean you have to navigate it alone. Even one trusted person who knows what you're going through can make a huge difference.
You don't need to worry about side-sleeping just yet (that usually kicks in during the second trimester), but now is the perfect time to build healthy sleep habits that will serve you well for the months ahead.
You don't need to buy the whole nursery just yet, but whilst your mind is racing and time is passing, getting acquainted with baby sleep is well worth the time and effort while there is some energy in the tank.
Learn the basics of safe sleep: Start looking into the foundations of safer sleep for newborns. Sleep can look very different once a newborn arrives so a little prep can help.
Move your body gently: If you're feeling up to it, light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can improve your mood and help you sleep better.
The first trimester can be a whirlwind of emotions, physical changes and late night google spirals. Doing practical things that make you feel genuinely good are what get you through this trimester so take a walk, eat the chips and tell salad you'll see it again in a few months time.
Yes, completely. First trimester fatigue is one of the most common early pregnancy symptoms. Rising progesterone levels, increased blood volume, and the energy your body uses to grow the placenta all contribute to feeling exhausted. Most parents-to-be find their energy returns in the second trimester but always chat to your chosen health professional to receive personalised medical advice.
Morning sickness typically starts around week 6 and peaks between weeks 8 and 10. For most people, it eases by week 12 to 14. If your nausea is severe or you're struggling to keep fluids down, speak with your midwife or doctor.
There's no rush! Many parents start researching during the first trimester and begin purchasing key items in the second
trimester. Learning about different areas of baby sleep can be a great first step so you're organised and ready when the time comes.
In most cases, yes. Gentle exercise like
walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga is generally safe and can actually improve
your mood and sleep. The key is to listen to your body and not push through
extreme fatigue. Always check with your healthcare provider if you have any
concerns.
The first trimester is a marathon, not a sprint. Some days you'll feel like a glowing goddess, and other days you'll want to stay in your pyjamas until further notice. Both are perfectly acceptable. You're doing something incredible and it's all part of the magic and chaos of motherhood.
The first step to achieving quality sleep and building a healthy sleep rhythm is finding a swaddle that works with your babies natural sleep position and instincts.
