About the author
This blog is provided by Nicole Hollenkamp Portrait Studio LLC.
Nicole is a mom of 5 and a highly trained Newborn and Maternity photographer with over 12 years of experience photographing over 100 babies.
Nicole provides services in and around Central MN with 2 studios located in Princeton and Foreston Minnesota.
Nicole also offers In-Home Newborn Photography to the surrounding areas. Areas include St Cloud, Waite Park, Elk River, Mora, Rice, Milaca, Zimmerman, Anoka, ETC...
Faq
Pregnancy for First-Time Moms.
Is this symptom normal? (Spotting, cramping, nausea, etc.)
Spotting or light bleeding early in pregnancy is common—up to 25% of pregnancies—often due to implantation or cervical changes
However, heavy bleeding, sharp cramping, or shoulder pain should prompt immediate contact with your provider.
Nausea ("morning sickness") affects up to 85%, beginning around weeks 4–8 and usually easing by week 14. For severe cases (hyperemesis gravidarum), medical care may be needed.
Cramping akin to menstrual cramps is often harmless, but intense pain warrants a medical consultation.
Is this symptom normal? (Spotting, cramping, nausea, etc.)
Fetal movement—often called “quickening”—typically begins between weeks 18–20 for first-time moms, though lighter flutters might be felt as early as week 16.
Pregnancy nutrition & vitamins—what’s safe?
Diet: Prioritize lean protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Avoid unpasteurized dairy, raw fish, deli meats, and excessive caffeine. No amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy
verywellfamily.com, health.com.
Supplements: A daily prenatal vitamin with folic acid (400–800 µg) is essential. Your OB/GYN or midwife can advise further.
Safe exercise & sex during pregnancy?
Exercise: Moderate aerobic activity (e.g., walking, swimming) for at least 150 minutes per week is beneficial and generally safe
en.wikipedia.org, vogue.com.
Sex: Low-risk pregnancies usually allow it; if you have concerns like bleeding or risk factors, consult your provider.
What happens at prenatal appointments?
You'll typically track:
Weight & blood pressure
Fetal heartbeat (from ~10–12 weeks with Doppler)
Growth via ultrasound (~12-week dating scan, 20-week anatomy scan)
Optional screening tests (e.g., for gestational diabetes)
What are the signs of labor—and when should I go to the hospital?
🕒 Early vs. Active Labor
Early labor: Irregular, mild contractions—last ~30–45 seconds, 5–20 minutes apart. Stay home, rest, hydrate, and time them.
Active labor: Contractions are strong, regular (~45–60 seconds), and occur every 3–5 minutes for more than an hour (first baby).
Other indicators:
Water breaks (fluid gush or trickle): Call provider immediately.
Bloody show (pinkish mucus discharge): Indicates impending labor but timing varies.
Reduced fetal movement, heavy bleeding, or intense pain: Go to the hospital immediately.
Rule of thumb (“5‑1‑1” or similar): Contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour—time to seek care.
What do I pack in my hospital bag?
Essentials include:
Comfortable clothing + maternity bra
Toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, lip balm)
Underwear and heavy-duty maternity pads
Slippers, snacks, phone charger
Items for baby: outfit, diaper, blanket
Copies of birth plan and insurance information
Postpartum—what should I expect?
Bleeding (lochia): Heavy at first, tapering over 4–6 weeks
Pain: Soreness (especially after vaginal birth), gradual easing with rest and safer pain relief
Blebs & mood: Baby blues are common; postpartum depression requires help—talk to your provider early.
Newborn basics—feeding, sleeping, diapers
Bleeding (lochia): Heavy at first, tapering over 4–6 weeks
Pain: Soreness (especially after vaginal birth), gradual easing with rest and safer pain relief
Blebs & mood: Baby blues are common; postpartum depression requires help—talk to your provider early.
Trusted Resources for Expectant Parents
American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) – [When is labor? How much weight gain is healthy?]
Mayo Clinic – [Pregnancy week by week guidance]
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – authoritative health research and guidelines
Final Tips
Every pregnancy is unique—symptoms vary
Err on the side of contacting your care provider if unsure
Take time to rest, nourish, and stay hydrated
Seek support—for sleep, emotions, or practical help—you’re not alone
Content References
verywellfamily.com, obgyn.coloradowomenshealth.com, osfhealthcare.org, en.wikipedia.org, obgyn.coloradowomenshealth.com
health.com, uchicagomedicine.org
healthy.kaiserpermanente.org,
