Lesson 1
Educating Families About Pregnancy
Trimesters, common discomforts, prenatal care & nutrition.
Learning objectives
- ·Stages of pregnancy and fetal development
- ·Common pregnancy discomforts and evidence-based solutions
- ·Prenatal care priorities
- ·Prenatal nutrition essentials
- ·Common misconceptions vs. facts
Trimester journey
Weeks 1–12
First Trimester
Baby
- ·Organs, brain, and spinal cord begin forming
- ·Fingers and toes become distinguishable
- ·By week 12 the fetus is about the size of a lime
Parent
- ·Fatigue
- ·Nausea / morning sickness
- ·Heightened emotions
Doula support
- ·Reassure that symptoms are normal
- ·Encourage rest, hydration, small frequent meals
- ·Suggest ginger tea for nausea
Weeks 13–26
Second Trimester
Baby
- ·Rapid growth and first felt movements (flutters)
- ·Senses develop — baby can hear sounds
Parent
- ·Energy returns (the 'honeymoon')
- ·Back pain, leg cramps
Doula support
- ·Recommend stretches or prenatal yoga
- ·Encourage talking or singing to bond with baby
Weeks 27–40
Third Trimester
Baby
- ·Weight gain and lung maturation
- ·Baby moves head-down in preparation for delivery
Parent
- ·Excitement mixed with anxiety
- ·Swelling, sleep difficulty
Doula support
- ·Suggest pillow support for sleep
- ·Light exercise to ease swelling
- ·Encourage practical birth preparation
Common discomforts
Prenatal nutrition
Folate
Prevents neural tube defects in early development.
Sources
SpinachLentilsAsparagusFortified cereals
Especially critical in the first trimester.
Iron
Supports oxygen transport for parent and baby.
Sources
Lean meatsBeansTofuFortified grains
Pair with vitamin C for better absorption.
Calcium
Builds strong bones and teeth.
Sources
DairyLeafy greensFortified plant milksSardines
Aim for a serving at most meals.
Hydration
Supports circulation and amniotic fluid levels.
Sources
WaterHerbal teasWater-rich fruits
Sip steadily — don't wait for thirst.
Myth vs. fact
Myth
"You're eating for two."
Fact
Calorie needs increase gradually: 0 extra in T1, ~300–350 in T2, ~450–500 in T3.
Myth
"No caffeine allowed."
Fact
Up to ~200 mg per day (about a 12 oz coffee) is generally considered safe.
Myth
"All seafood is unsafe."
Fact
Low-mercury fish like salmon and sardines are excellent omega-3 sources. Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel.
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