First Trimester Survival Guide: What to Expect & How to Cope with the Early Weeks of Pregnancy

May 20

A gentle, practical guide for first-time moms in The Woodlands, TX—because every beautiful journey deserves a peaceful beginning.

The first trimester is often described as the quiet beginning of something extraordinary. For many first-time moms, it can also feel like a blur of emotions, new symptoms, and endless questions. You may be filled with excitement one moment and completely overwhelmed the next—and that’s okay.

At Studio Brae, we walk alongside so many women who are in the earliest chapters of motherhood. From documenting announcements, baby bumps and the tiniest newborn details, we’ve had the honor of hearing countless stories—and it always starts here, in these first delicate weeks. This guide is for you: a soft place to land as you navigate the start of your motherhood story.

A sweet embrace between the newly announced mom and dad, accompanied by an ultrasound to announce a pregnancy for a photography session. — Sweet early moments of motherhood documented for this sweet family!

What to Expect in the First Trimester

The first trimester spans from conception to 12 weeks and brings about major changes—both physically and emotionally. Here’s what you may notice:

Fatigue: Your body is working overtime to grow a new life. Feeling utterly exhausted is completely normal.
Nausea & Food Aversions: Morning sickness (which can strike any time of day) often peaks between weeks 6–10.
Breast tenderness, bloating, and heightened smell: All signs that your hormones are hard at work.
Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations may make you feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster.
Frequent urination: As your uterus grows, it puts pressure on your bladder—another totally normal change.

Each pregnancy is unique, and you may experience all, some, or none of these. Trust your body and talk to your provider if anything feels off.

How to Cope: Tips for Thriving (Not Just Surviving)

Even though this trimester can be tough, there are simple ways to support yourself during this tender season:

1. Prioritize Rest

Sleep when you can, even if that means catnaps during the day. Your body is doing something incredible—it deserves to slow down.

2. Eat Small, Frequent Meals

Keeping something in your stomach can ease nausea and dizziness. Choose gentle, whole foods when possible: toast, fruit, smoothies, and crackers can work wonders.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen symptoms, so sip water throughout the day. Adding lemon or fruit slices may make it easier to tolerate.

4. Give Yourself Grace

If your home isn’t spotless or your to-do list is untouched, that’s okay. This is a season for leaning in—not stretching thin.

5. Start Dreaming About Baby

Even if it feels early, it’s perfectly okay to start imagining life with your little one. Think about names, nursery ideas, or the kind of photos you want to remember this season by. Our maternity and newborn sessions here in The Woodlands are designed to capture those fleeting moments in a simple, organic, and beautiful way.

A pregnant woman in white clothes, in a studio located in The Woodlands, Texas, posing for her maternity pictures. — First-time mama documents her pregnancy with a maternity session. Studio Brae lifestyle studio located in The Woodlands.

When to Book Maternity & Newborn Photography

Many moms in The Woodlands begin planning their maternity and newborn photography during the second trimester—but if you’re already thinking about it, you’re ahead of the game. At Studio Brae, we recommend:

Maternity sessions: Between 28–34 weeks, when your bump is beautifully round and you’re still comfortable.
Newborn sessions: Reserved during pregnancy, ideally photographed when baby is 5–14 days old for that sleepy, curled-up magic.

Early planning ensures your preferred dates and allows time for wardrobe, styling, and connection—we love helping you feel prepared and seen every step of the way.

You’re Doing Beautifully

This season can be filled with unknowns, but it’s also sacred. Give yourself permission to rest, to feel it all, and to embrace the wonder of what’s unfolding. Whether you’re navigating morning sickness or whispering dreams to your growing baby, you are already the perfect mama for this little life.

We are cheering you on—and we’d be honored to help you preserve these first, fleeting moments when you’re ready.