Every pregnancy is different and when you look back on it, certain moments will stand out. Nine months is a long period and a lot goes down in that time. It’s one of the most magical experiences you’ll go through in your lifetime, even including all the cravings, food aversions, and unsolicited advice from your mother-in-law.
Pregnancy is packed full of memorable moments both big and small. It’s important to cherish these as they’re all a big part of an amazing adventure. It’s difficult to come up with a list of only ten, as sometimes every day can feel like a new drama. Here are some of the most memorable pregnancy milestones to expect when you’re expecting.
Testing positive
The very first confirmation of your new journey is testing positive. You’ll always remember how you felt on that day. Another fun milestone is breaking the news to your partner. Many people choose funny or creative ways to tell their partner, but you can find your own style.
Some people turn it into a bit of a surprise or prank by suspiciously putting a bun in the oven, or leaving the test to be discovered. It depends on your relationship with your partner. Testing positive is certainly the most major milestone in your pregnancy.
Your first ultrasound
This is often a nerve-wracking experience for parents, and it’s important to know what to expect. Your first ultrasound will definitely be a memorable experience as after all, it’s the first time you’ll actually see your baby. It’s often the moment it starts to feel real for most people.
It’s reassuring more than anything having your first appointment with the doctor, and you’ll be able to get lots of advice and information. Your first prenatal visit is a very important milestone.
First craving
Not all women get them, but cravings during pregnancy are normal. Unfortunately for some, so are food aversions. Your body is making lots of adjustments and this can cause your appetite to change. You’ll need to be eating more but don’t overdo it, try to stick to a healthy diet to make room for the odd craving.
Some common cravings include fast foods and sweets, but certain expectant mothers also crave bizarre combinations of food. If you’re one of these mothers, then this will definitely be a memorable time for you. Take photos or write down the recipes you invent, it will be funny to look back on in the future.
Making the announcement
It depends on the family but some people prefer to wait until the second trimester to officially announce their pregnancy. After waiting all this time, it’s only natural you’ll want to make a big deal out of this. It’s becoming a trend to make the announcement in a more spectacular or amusing way.
Whether or not you decide to make a day of it, telling your friends and family you’re pregnant will definitely be a memorable experience each time. You’re bound to be met with lots of questions and excitement. It’s up to you when and how you want to go about it.
Baby shower
Now that your friends and family are in the loop, you can start planning ideas for your baby shower. You can delegate this responsibility if you so wish, to your mother, best friend, or even your partner. Many people prepare baby-themed snacks, drinks, and games which can help break the ice. The best part is, you’ll also get presents.
It’s your decision if you want to plan a more unique affair for your baby shower, or just have an intimate gathering. The good thing is they’re both fun and productive. You can get all the items you need for when your baby is born and some helpful advice.
Maternity clothes
Don’t think about it as getting bigger, but treating yourself to a new wardrobe! Buying maternity clothes is an easy way to enjoy being pregnant. You’ll need something more comfortable and there are plenty of trendy options nowadays. There are several maternity brands to choose from that strive for both comfort and style.
Alternatively, you could share second-hand maternity clothes with friends and family. This might make the experience more memorable. Some families even pass maternity clothes down generations. Imagine your baby could be growing in the same dress you did when your mother was pregnant.
Feel your baby move
Feeling your baby move or kick can be one of the most exciting milestones in your pregnancy. It’s hard to pinpoint when you can feel your baby move, but normally it’s later in the third trimester. Your baby is always moving, but in the beginning, they’re too small for you to feel it.
It’s an incredible experience and feeling your baby move for the first time will definitely be a memorable moment. It might start as a flutter or a nudge from inside, but it’s always a sensation you won’t forget.
Find out the gender
It’s up to you if you choose to find out the gender during pregnancy. Many parents choose to wait until the delivery day. Either way, you can start getting prepared with some unisex baby clothes. There are plenty of trendy options available. The same goes for bedroom decor, toys, and accessories.
Certain parents like to make a public announcement, whereas others are more private. Some parents find out the sex and pick out a name but don’t tell anyone else until the baby is born. However you decide to do it, it’ll definitely be a moment to remember.
Choosing a name
Choosing a name for your baby is a monumental decision in your lives. You might have had the name picked out since you were younger, or be relying on trending baby names, it depends. Naming your child is a huge milestone whether you choose a name before or after birth.
You might even spend weeks deciding, reading, or writing endless lists of names. Finally making a decision together will surely be a moment to remember. Perhaps you’ll name your child after a person in history or a particular event, it could become a story to tell them when they’re older.
Delivery day
The most important milestone of all is the day your baby is born. You might have spent so long studying tips to prepare for labor, that you can’t even believe the day has finally arrived. From your first contraction until you hear your baby cry, the whole day will seem like a rollercoaster of emotions.
There are so many milestones to cherish during pregnancy, but nothing can compare to the day you first meet your baby. Hearing them cry for the first time and holding their hand is an unforgettable experience. You’ll always be able to name them and find out the gender if you haven’t done so already.
It’s up to you how you prefer to remember these moments. There are several apps to record baby and pregnancy milestones. You can organize memories into a photobook and share them with family and friends in real-time. Professional photos are also a great way to document these experiences.
Pregnancy may be stressful at times but there are many extremely memorable moments along the way. Don’t forget to celebrate these milestones and everything you have achieved so far. It’s a great way to stay positive and motivated through the harder times. By documenting your memories, you’ll also have something to share with your child when they’re older. This can be a perfect bonding experience.
