First time mum. Confused and anxious...

[EvadneBadne]

Found out I was regnant very early (high HCG levels and BFP 7dpo). I've been doing a bit of reading, and there's so much info on what not to eat, which supplements to take, birth options, classes to go to, things to buy, etc etc. The list goes on! I don't know where to start. I'm anxious, stressed, trying to relax but am really struggling to get myself sorted. I'm terrified of miscarriage. Just a bit of a mess... I'm only 5 weeks and need to calm down a little.

What are the things I REALLY need to know?

Regnant? I mean pregnant, of course.

Oh at 5 weeks don't worry! Ring your doctors and get an appointment with a GP, and read up on foods and activities you shouldn't do when pregnant (there's not loads to be aware of) and other than that life goes on mostly as nornal for the time being; at least that's is what I am finding (I'm only 10 weeks myself!). You're likely to have some cramps/pain/nausea at some point but thst seems to be normal. I felt a little overwhelmed after my 8 week midwife appointment as she gave me a big pack to read but I don't think you need to be making decisions about birth and classes u til much later down the line.. so relax :)

I really recommend "expecting better" by Emily Oster. Brilliant book. She is an economics professor who was annoyed by the patronising/ contradictory advice given to pregnant women, so she went off and read all the relevant studies. It's seriously helpful in cutting through the nonsense.

Take folic acid. Read the nhs website for what you can’t eat (there’s very little you can’t eat). Expecting better is a great book.

Best book I read while pregnant was 'Larger Than Life' by Adele Parks.

Forgot to add that she is also a voice of reason on miscarriage rates/risk and antenatal screening etc.

I'm also a worrier, I few a lot better after reading it.