Family Planning
Weeks 1–12
(1st Trimester)
Weeks 13–27
(2nd Trimester)
Weeks 28–40
(3rd Trimester)
Getting Ready to Deliver
Postpartum

Weeks 1–12 (1st Trimester)

Congratulations on your pregnancy! The first trimester is an important time for you and your baby. Your body may feel tired, sick or sore. You might need to urinate more. Be kind to yourself—you’re growing a baby! We’re here to support you every step of the way.

On this page you'll find:

Welcome to Your 1st Trimester!

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What to Expect

  • Early symptoms

    Nausea, fatigue, frequent urination

  • Baby’s development

    Major organs start forming

  • Common Concern: Morning Sickness

    Hang in there! By the second trimester, your days should feel much better.

Recommended Steps:

  • Confirm your pregnancy with a doctor and lab work.

  • Schedule your first prenatal visit with an OB/GYN or midwife before week 12.

  • Between 11–14 weeks, talk to your doctor about an ultrasound and possibly a cell-free DNA test for certain chromosomal conditions, including Down syndrome.

  • Discuss maternity leave, short-term disability (STD) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) with your employer.

Ask your doctor these questions to help you in the early weeks of pregnancy. They explain what to expect as your body changes and you start prenatal care.

What symptoms should I expect in the first trimester?

When should I make my first prenatal appointment?

Should I see any specialists while I’m pregnant?

Do I have any risks because of my personal or family history?

I have a chronic condition. How will you care for me during pregnancy and what symptoms should I watch for?

If my symptoms get worse, when should I call you or go to the hospital?

If I am worried about something, who can I reach out to for help?

Learn More on Your Own

Want to dig deeper? These trusted resources can help answer common questions.

Preeclampsia and high blood pressure during pregnancy: Understand the signs of preeclampsia and why it’s important to get care right away.

Read Article

Gestational diabetes: Learn what it is, how it’s tested and how it can affect your pregnancy.

Read Article

Creating a birth plan: Use a sample birth plan to think through your choices and talk with your care team.

Read Article

How to tell when labor begins: Learn the common signs of labor and when to call your doctor or go to the hospital.

Read Article

Breastfeeding support: Get tips for getting started, common questions and where to find help.

Read Article
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Trimester Check In: Find an OB/GYN

Use our Find a Doctor tool to choose the right provider for your pregnancy journey.

If you need help finding a Care Team or scheduling appointments, call Member Services at 410-779-9369 or 800-730-8530 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET. and we’ll connect you with a Care Manager.

Find an OB/GYN
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CareFirst CHPMD Benefits For You

  • Free meal service for members who are 20–28 weeks pregnant

  • Prenatal visits with $0 copay

  • Breast pump

  • Prenatal vitamins

  • Nutrition counseling

  • Support quitting smoking

  • Over-the-counter medicines and supplies

  • Hospital stays

Extra Help for Your Journey

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Doula Support for Your Pregnancy

A doula is a trained helper who supports you before, during and after birth. They offer comfort, answer questions and help you feel calm and confident during labor and delivery.

Your plan covers:

  • Up to 8 visits before and/or after birth

  • 1 visit during labor and delivery

Your doula works with your care team and focuses on emotional support and comfort during birth. Find your free doula support now.

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Start Using Baby Steps

You're automatically enrolled in this program that helps you during pregnancy. A Care Manager from CareFirst can:

  • Help you make OB appointments

  • Connect you to WIC, SNAP and more

  • Set up special tests if needed

A Care Manager will reach out, or you can call Member Services at 410-779-9369 or 800-730-8530 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET.

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Care Management Support During Pregnancy

Care Management gives you extra support during your pregnancy at no cost. The Care Management Team of Registered Nurses and Care Coordinators works with you and your doctors to help you stay on track with care, answer questions and connect you to helpful resources. They can also:

  • Help make sure you get care when you need it

  • Share pregnancy health information and guidance

  • Help your doctor arrange special visits or tests if needed

  • Connect you to community resources like WIC, SNAP and pregnancy or newborn classes

If you have questions, concerns or need extra support, call Member Services and ask to be connected to Care Management at 410-779-9369 or 800-730-8530 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET and we’ll connect you with a Care Manager.

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Need Prenatal Vitamins?

They help you and your baby stay healthy. You can get a 90-day supply with a prescription. Ask your doctor which kind is best for you.

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SafeRide Transportation Benefit

Get 6 free one-way rides for your prenatal visits and all non-emergency medical appointments.

Call SafeRide at 833-509-0250 to book a ride today.

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Public Benefit Support

You may be eligible for WIC and SNAP.

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Need More Information?

Review the CareFirst CHPMD Member Handbook (PDF) for a complete outline of services and benefits. English | Spanish

Review the CareFirst CHPMD Benefit Guide (PDF) for more benefit information. English | Spanish

We’re here to support you and keep you informed about all your benefits as a CareFirst CHPMD member. If you have questions or need more information, call Member Services at 410-779-9369 or 800-730-8530 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET.