If you are looking for practical, no-nonsense advice and tips for yourself or for a loved one who is pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you have certainly arrived at the right place. The useful information found in these handpicked gems lays the foundation for a happy and healthy pregnancy.
Is a baby coming? Do you plan on breastfeeding? Do you want to feed privately or in public as well? Buy nursing clothes and do both! Many maternity lines also carry “breastfeeding shirts.” This means that nobody will be able to see what you’re trying to do. Nurse at the mirror at first so you can figure out how to do it discreetly.
Don’t stop using a seat belt in your car while driving or riding as a passenger. The danger to your baby from the seat belt is much less than the danger from you being loose in the car in the event of a crash. Make sure the belt is as low on your hips as possible, preferably underneath your belly.
Start taking a prenatal vitamin while you are trying to conceive, or as soon as you first find out about that surprise pregnancy. There are special nutrients that are needed by your baby for proper development. The sooner you start taking prenatal vitamins, the better chance your baby has of getting the nutrients he or she needs.
Talk to your doctor if you are considering becoming pregnant. Your doctor can advise you on the steps that you need to take to ensure that you will stay healthy. By knowing proper tips on pregnancy preparation, you can ensure you have the best experience.
Try eating veggies and fruits that you’ve never tried before. The more fruits and vegetables you eat the better it will be for your body. Start experimenting with items you normally would never have given a second look. Not only will you be making yourself healthier for the baby, you might find a new favorite.
Your pregnancy means the decisions are yours. Just because someone in your office or a distant relative doesn’t believe that you should drink coffee or lift something heavier than 20 pounds doesn’t mean they control your pregnancy decisions. Talk to your doctor and make your decisions with them. Ignore unsolicited comments from others.
It is important to see a doctor once you have a pregnancy test that is positive. It is recommended that for the first trimester, you see your practitioner once a month. Typically, most women are seen between 8 and 10 weeks gestation. At this time, blood work is done and your urine is checked for protein and sugar.
During the course of your pregnancy, you need to remove all caffeine from your diet. The harsh caffeine can, among other things, bring along a bad case of insomnia and create a consistent lack of required sleep. If you are nauseated, eat a fistful of crackers to counter it. Adopting a good diet is essential for regular sleeping patterns.
When pregnant, avoid drinking excessively before you go to sleep. It is important to drink enough fluids during the day to keep you hydrated. However, you should stop drinking about two hours before going to sleep. This will help you avoid frequent trips to the bathroom when you should be sleeping.
Nine months is a long time when you are pregnant with your first or second or even third child. Make the most of this time of intense and remarkable changes by remembering to practice the tips and tricks which you have just read. A healthy pregnancy is a perfect starting point for the journey to motherhood.