There are many ways to have a healthier and happier pregnancy for your baby and you. The advice given in this article will help make this process easier for you. Use the suggestions that will work best for your individual circumstances and don’t forget to enjoy yourself!
Chart your periods if you want to become pregnant. Knowing your cycles helps you know the perfect times for attempting to get pregnant. This will help you find a precise due date since you will be able to tell during which period of time you got pregnant.
Avoid gaining too much weight when pregnant. If you gain a lot of weight during pregnancy, you risk health problems down the road. Of course, losing the weight will also be difficult. You only need to put on 15-30 pounds during the entire pregnancy.
Regular exercise will be important during your pregnancy. There are many benefits to exercising, including the reduced risk of miscarriage, less time in labor, and the ability to lose weight after the baby is born.
If you are planning to travel while you are pregnant, discuss it with your doctor first. If you do travel, make sure you carry along with you all your prenatal medical records, so you are prepared.
Try using full-service gas stations when pregnant or having your passenger or partner fill the tank while you’re in the car. Fumes of gas can harm your unborn baby. It’s always better to ask someone for help than risk it.
Work with a doula. Doulas are people who receive training in how to be birth coaches. They are a source of support, information, and an advocate for you during labor and delivery. Not only will they help you, but they can advise your partner on the best ways to provide you with comfort and support. Having an experienced helper with you as you go through labor will be a huge comfort.
Most birthing centers will be happy to give you a tour of their facilities, so be sure to take advantage of this. Being comfortable in where you are giving birth will make your labor go that much easier. If possible, visit more than one location to compare your options and see what is available in your area. Be sure that you have what is necessary for the baby and the other person that sits with you when you’re in labor.
Walk as much as you can when you’ve exceeded your due date and you want to go into labor. When you walk, you may be helping the baby get into a lower position which happens before birth. Take your partner with you. Avoid trying dangerous methods like contact exercising.
It is very important for a woman in her third trimester to sleep on her left side. It allows the baby to get an optimal blood supply, and gives you a better blood flow to the uterus and kidneys. Do not sleep your your back, as it’s not a good way to get blood flowing.
Keep bland foods at hand, such as toast and crackers, when you are pregnant. Foods with a bland flavor will most likely be easier for your stomach and sense of smell to tolerate. Greasy or acidic foods are a major no-no if you’re experiencing these symptoms as they will make them significantly worse.
Caving in to your cravings isn’t the best idea, when you’re pregnant. The nutrition of your child is top priority and should be considered before any craving. Indulging certain cravings simply satisfies the cravings and does not necessarily nourish your baby, so be sure you are eating the right way for your baby’s health.
Be sure you obtain a flu shot if you’re pregnant. Pregnancy can impact your immune system, leaving you vulnerable to illnesses such as the flu. This could be dangerous to you and your unborn child.
It’s really important to remember to make time for yourself. After you give birth, life will get more busy and you won’t have much time for yourself. Make an effort to get a manicure, visit with friends, or just spend some time on a hobby you enjoy. You will feel more relaxed and content which will also be good for your baby.
Skin has elasticity, but it can only stretch so far. It is not uncommon for the skin of the stomach to become itchy as it expands. Avoid hot baths, as they will make the itching worse. A hot bath or shower can actually produce more itching because excessively hot water will wash away essential oils that keep skin moist. Use a thick, rich moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated; many women swear by cocoa butter. Wear clothes that are not tightly fitted, and avoid scratching!
Make sure you have a complete to-do list of everything that needs to be done during your pregnancy. Nothing is worse than the stress of giving birth couples with the stress of not being ready to bring the baby home. Perhaps your friends or family can help you out by completing some of the items. Consider eliminating things from your list that really don’t need to be done before your baby arrives.
Attending childbirth classes can be very helpful if this pregnancy is your first. No matter how you plan on birthing your baby, these classes are really helpful. If you decide to take a tour at your local hospital, you will also get the chance to see the maternity unit. This can help you to know what’s to be expected during your delivery.
If you experience acne breakouts while pregnant, avoid the use of salicylic acid on your skin. This deep-cleaning product can damage the fetus. You can switch to a milder cleanser to treat your acne and control breakouts.
Using the practical and common sense advice above will ensure that your pregnancy is a breeze. As these easy to apply tips show, you can take time out to relax a little and rejoice in the miracle of your pregnancy.