Pregnancy is very unpredictable. For some, the surprise may be how smoothly everything went, for others it may seem like there is just one problem after another. This article can help, regardless of which is true for you.
Learn how to track your cycles if you are trying to conceive. Knowing your cycles helps you to know when your chances for conception will be most successful. If you have accurately tracked your cycle, you can also use your information to determine more accurately your date of conception and your due date.
Go ahead and give in to your pregnancy cravings. Doctors aren’t quite sure if cravings are a result of emotional changes or of nutritional deficits in your diet, but not getting the foods you crave can be stressful during a time when you don’t need the added stress. Just be careful that your diet is healthy overall.
Avoid alcohol when trying to conceive or if you are already pregnant. Alcohol can cause you and your baby to have serious health problems. When trying to conceive, alcohol decreases sperm count and makes getting pregnant more difficult. Even drinks like wine are unhealthy for pregnant women or those trying to conceive.
Search your home and eliminate any substances/chemicals that may harm your pregnancy. Cleaning solutions can be bad for a pregnancy, so look for ones that are made with natural additives instead. Keep using natural cleaners when you bring your baby home.
Don’t feel bad about needing to take care of yourself. You are growing a small person inside of you and you deserve to take a break! Eat more than you usually would, because you will need those extra pounds. Take a break after dinner and let your husband do the dishes. Its those small things that will add up and make you feel much better.
Before you are pregnant, it is a good idea to visit your dentist. Many times during pregnancy, your gums can be very sensitive, and a dental cleaning can be bothersome. You also will not be able to get any x-rays during your pregnancy, so it’s best to get that out of the way before hand.
If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, do not let the state of your breasts during pregnancy concern you. The amount of growth or leakage you experience–if any–has no bearing on your ultimate ability to breastfeed. There is no reason to pump prior to delivery, either, as the hormones that enable your body to produce milk do not kick in until the postpartum period.
If you are trying to conceive a baby, be sure to alert your doctor. This will eliminate the chances of them putting you on any medications or running tests that will make it harder for you to conceive or hurt your baby if you are pregnant.
Many women find the hormone changes of the first trimester to be exhausting. To improve your energy during pregnancy get plenty of rest at night and incorporate a daytime nap into your schedule. Exercise can also be helpful. Your body is going through many changes, so it is important to take good care of yourself.
Add appropriate nutrients to your diet and keep track of what you are eating. Ideally, you should add 300 to 500 additional calories per day during pregnancy. Keeping a food journal helps you ensure your additional calories are nutritionally sound for both you and your baby and helps you ensure you are taking in all necessary requirements.
Pregnancy has a limited time span; it won’t last forever. Once it’s over, you’ll have an irreplaceable gift. The tips in this piece are intended to help you have an enjoyable pregnancy that you will remember for years to come.