How I Survived The First Trimester (With A Toddler)

The first trimester is the worst. I think most mama’s would agree with that.  

I thought I had it bad the first time but really all I had to do was think about myself. It’s definitely a new challenge to juggle “getting by” first trimester woes with a rambunctious toddler.

My pregnancy symptoms this time around have been almost identical to the first pregnancy (could it be another girl?). The predictability didn’t make the trimester pass any easier though.

Both times, it’s been the nausea and food aversions that completely throw off my life. I don’t throw up but it feels like I’m always on the verge. Did I mention I have a real phobia of throwing up too? I’m sure I lost some weight because of my food aversions too but in actuality it’s the hubby who’s experienced the most grief from this (more on that later). The debilitating exhaustion, the need to pee (especially in the middle of the night) and dizziness are the other main nuisances of my first trimester.

The good news is: I survived it! And you will too.

Here are five tips to help you get through the first trimester:

1. Eat something

I’m a firm believer that anything goes as long as it’s sustenance. I say this because I’ve had serious nausea and food aversions both pregnancies. I’d be starving but nothing feels right to eat. Snacking (6-8 times a day) instead of eating 3 square meals helps me get food in my stomach. Have a variety of snack options at home. It’s also okay to give in to your cravings – within reason, in moderation. For me, I’m not talking about desserts for every meal. I’m talking, if my hubby made pasta but I’m not feeling it, I’d ask him to go out to pick me up some burritos. He’s learned that it’s better this way too.

2. Sleep when your toddler sleeps

Whether it’s a full two hours or barely 30 minutes, make sure to crawl into bed once your toddler naps. If you’re anything like me, you’ll agree that this can be pretty difficult to do. Rosie’s nap time has always been my precious “me time.” To give it up to sleep feels like a waste. But I’ve learned the hard way that resting when you can is the best thing to do for everyone’s sake. The first trimester fatigue is really overwhelming. Don’t fight it. Give in and sleep when you can.

3. Kill the mom guilt

I am still working on this. Mom guilt took me by the storm when I just didn’t have the energy and drive to keep up with my daily routine. Rosie and I didn’t go out as much (to her beloved kids’ programs). I spent more time lazing and lounging around instead of playing with her. Some days, she just looked so bored. But remember: baby-growing is a full time job and it’s actually okay if your parenting game is off. Slow down and take it easy. Kick up your feet whenever you can. Your body needs to rest and you will thank yourself later. Take time to plan some activities for your child. Sticker books, playdough, sensory play (especially with kitchen utensils and ingredients) and even just alternating toys every couple days worked wonders for us!

4. Find your tribe

There is a common pattern for new parents-to-be to keep their pregnancy a secret for the first 12 weeks. I totally understand the logic since miscarriage rates are high at this point. But keeping this secret while going through the 12 worst weeks of pregnancy is a pretty hard feat. Don’t go through it alone. Find a few trustworthy people to support you. Connect with other mama’s who naturally just get it. Open up to your hubby and let him know all your needs. Vent, cry, pass the toddler off to someone you trust, go out for dessert, or ask for help around the house. Don’t go through this alone.

5. Anticipate the second trimester

Believe it or not, these 12 weeks will pass. The second trimester will come in the blink of an eye and along with it, a new surge of energy, motivation, joy and excitement. I seriously felt on top of the world during the second trimester of my first pregnancy. First trimester woes – what was that like again? Lots of exciting things happen as you start to feel baby moving and your bump develops out of the “I ate too much” stage into a cute baby bump. So here’s a mind exercise for you – choose positivity today!

So that’s how I survived the first trimester (with a toddler). What about you? What secret tips do you have? Let us know below!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we may make a small commission if you make a purchase. This doesn’t cost you any more but it does help us to continue publishing helpful content – thank you for your support!