Your pregnancy is a beautiful thing. Regardless of whether or not it was planned, you may have a lot of questions about what to do and what you can do to make these nine months easier. This article will give you those ideas and tips on having a great pregnancy.
To avoid nighttime heartburn while pregnant, eat your last meal at least two hours before you go to bed. Reclining just after eating will lead to increased acid reflux and heartburn. Also, use extra pillows to elevate your head and upper back above the level of your abdomen to reduce symptoms.
Pay attention to your body, and don’t write strange things off as simply symptoms of pregnancy. For example, swelling of the joints and face is common during pregnancy, but excessive and sudden swelling can herald pre-eclampsia. If you notice any symptoms that seem strange or haven’t been mentioned as expected by your doctor, give them a call.
Plan to tour the hospital or birthing facilities where you are going to give birth. This will give you the chance to have an active choice on where your child is born and also lets you know the ins and outs of the program. Make sure you feel comfortable with where ever you choose.
Eat healthy during pregnancy. Both the mother-to-be and her unborn fetus need a balanced diet. Because you are carrying a life within your body, you must take in more calories, about 300 more each day. Remember to eat healthy food products like vegetables and fruit and drink lots of water.
Eat five or six well-balanced meals every day. This will help you to get all the nutrition that you need, as well as the calories. You should not be eating junk food all day. There is no nutritional value in that, and the only thing it will do for you is put on extra pounds.
Be sure to take prenatal vitamins that have adequate amounts of folic acid when pregnant. Folic acid is integral to prevention of neural tube issues. The cell and tissue development of the fetus depends on folic acid also.
Be sure to see your doctor before becoming pregnant. Not only does this help establish a healthy start to your prenatal care should you become pregnant, it also allows your doctor to check for any conditions that might require special care, or worse, discover conditions that would make pregnancy dangerous.
Be prepared for the hospital keep an old towel and a plastic bag in your car just in case your water breaks on the way to the hospital. Pack a robe for pacing the hospital halls, as well as nonskid slipper socks. Fill a small bag with electronics, such as an iPod for music and a still-photo and video camera. You will also need your insurance card, toiletries and a going home outfit for you and the baby. Staying prepared ensures this stressful time is easier, and keeps your emotions on a more even keel.
It is a good idea to pack your hospital bag when you reach 37 weeks or so. You are more likely to remember the items that you will both want and need while in the hospital if you aren’t tossing things into a bag as you rush out the door.
Your pregnancy will only last for a short time, but nine months can seem like forever when you are sick and uncomfortable. In the end we all know it is worth every second of it. Use the tips in this article to make it enjoyable and an experience you will cherish.