Finding out you’re pregnant for the very first time can be exciting, overwhelming, and even a little scary. Many first-time mums ask the same question: I’m pregnant, now what?
Getting the right guidance and antenatal care early is the best way to protect your health and your baby’s health. This guide will walk you through on where to start as a first-time expectant mum in Kenya, from the moment you find out you’re pregnant till delivery.
Step 1: Confirm Your Pregnancy at a Clinic
While a home test kit is a good first step, you should always confirm your pregnancy at a clinic. Many antenatal clinics in Nairobi offer reliable blood and urine tests. Confirming your pregnancy in a hospital early ensures you get accurate results and can begin antenatal care at the right time.
Step 2: Book Your First Antenatal Clinic Visit
Your first antenatal clinic (ANC) appointment should be scheduled between 8–12 weeks of pregnancy. It’s one of the most important steps, especially for first-time expectant mums, and the longest of your ANC clinics. This initial visit reduces risks of complications and informs the doctor whether you and your baby will need additional support, setting the foundation for a healthy pregnancy.
Here’s what you can expect on your first ANC appointment:
- Health History Review: A doctor or midwife will take your health history, including past pregnancies, current medication, past surgeries, family medical history, allergies, and so on. They might also ask about your family and lifestyle dynamics, all to determine how best to support your journey.
- Medical Tests: Next are different types of tests to ascertain both you and your baby’s health, including your body’s ability to carry the pregnancy to term. Basic medical tests during the first ANC visit include blood work, blood sugar, body mass index (BMI), HIV status, and blood pressure.
- Ultrasound Scan: The first ultrasound scan is often known as the dating scan because it estimates how far along you’re and your due date. It also confirms the pregnancy is well in the uterus and checks the baby’s heartbeat.
- Health Education: Your nurse will also give you expert advice on key issues such as what to eat and avoid while pregnant, how to take care of your health, safe medicine, and what to expect throughout the journey
- Medication and Supplements: Finally, the doctor prescribes any medication they determine you might need for a healthy start, as well as nutritional supplements such as folic acid and iron.
At Malaica, your first ANC visit also comes with immediate access to our judgment-free compassionate online space of fellow mums who are far along as you. These groups provide some of the support you need going forward through daily expert-led conversations and peer-to-peer advice.
You’ll also get access to your personal 24/7 nurse midwife for whenever you need to run your “Should I be worried?” concerns with a professional.
Step 3: Start Taking Care of Your Health
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, begin building habits for a healthy pregnancy such as:
- Take folic acid, iron, prenatal vitamins, and any other supplements your midwife recommends
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, and proteins
- Move your body through gentle exercises, such as walking and prenatal yoga
- Stay hydrated and rest when your body needs it
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and self-medication.
These simple habits support your baby’s growth while keeping you feeling strong throughout your pregnancy.
Read More: How to Boost Your Immunity Naturally During Pregnancy
Step 4: Educate Yourself and Find a Support System
Pregnancy is a journey filled with physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Keeping yourself informed prepares you for the journey ahead. You can educate yourself through reading trusted resources, joining support groups for mums-to-be, and attending antenatal classes to help you prepare.
Pregnancy and motherhood are beautiful but also challenging in various aspects. You need a support village made up of family, a partner, friends, health professionals, and fellow expectant mums to help you feel less isolated. A strong support system makes pregnancy easier through helping with chores, sharing challenges without judgment, and giving advice.
Step 5: Care for Your Mental and Emotional Health
It’s completely normal to feel anxious, uncertain, or even lonely when you’re pregnant for the first time. Don’t ignore your feelings. Talk to your partner, family, or a health professional.
Malaica offers virtual mental health support right from preconception to postnatal so you can get the all-rounded support you need at this time. We understand that your mental health is as important as your physical health when it comes to the wellbeing of your baby.
Step 6: Choose the Right Pregnancy Care Partner
As a first-time expectant mum, choosing the right maternal health care partner is an uphill battle yet a key essential for a manageable pregnancy journey. You don’t know what you need, what to look for, and the indicators of a great maternal healthcare partner.
Not all clinics are the same. Look for a provider that goes beyond routine check-ups to provide holistic support from physical to community, and psychological support. The right antenatal clinic will make you feel safe, reassured, and celebrated throughout your pregnancy.
Malaica Reviews From First-Time Mums
- “I really learnt a lot being a first time mom who had no idea what she was doing!!”
“Malaica has been a great support system throughout my pregnancy journey. Right from the online community, to the birth preparations classes and the personalised care, I really learnt a lot being a first time mom who had no idea what she was doing!! ” – Malaica mom
Book Your First Antenatal Clinic at Malaica
Becoming a mum is a life-changing journey, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Start with the basics: confirm your pregnancy, book your first antenatal clinic visit, and find a healthcare partner who will walk with you every step of the way.
With the right support by your side every step of the way, your pregnancy can be not only safe but also joyful.
Schedule a first-time antenatal consultation at Malaica to set the foundation for a healthy and empowering pregnancy.