Whether it’s your first or your fifth pregnancy, there are many worries that go through your mind, and many questions as well. The only way to get the solutions for all your worries and questions is to get more information. Start with these tips to get a better understanding of what your body is going through.
Use a cold-water bath for swollen feet. One highly common symptom of pregnancy is swollen feet and ankles, especially in the heat. A cold water bath can reduce the blood flow to your feet, which in turn will reduce the inflammation. It also cools you down and gives you an excuse to be off your feet for a few minutes.
Stop smoking immediately if you have found out that you are pregnant or if are trying to become pregnant. Smoking, as we all know, is incredibly dangerous for us but it becomes even more important to quit when we are trying to take care of a new life. Talk with your doctor immediately if you are having trouble quitting.
Take your iron pills. Many pregnant women will get anemia at some point during their pregnancy. Your body needs a lot of iron reserves for the birth and after when you are breastfeeding. Ask your doctor early about taking an iron supplement to keep your levels high and prevent anemia in the first place.
Jot down what you eat and create a food diary. This allows you to know that you’re eating the nutrients you need. Taking this list to the doctor will also come in handy for him or her to look over as well.
Take breastfeeding classes and bone up with some books prior to giving birth. Breastfeeding is best for baby but there can be a lot of pitfalls along the way that could sabotage your progress. Taking a class prior to having to actually breastfeed, will help you be calmer and more in control of feeding your new baby.
Take a lot of pictures of yourself before the baby comes. You never know if you will be pregnant again, and it will be good to have the memories saved for you in photographs. Your child will also enjoy seeing these when he or she gets a little older. Be proud of the amazing work that you are doing!
When you first find out that you are pregnant it is important to tell anyone and everyone that you are close to. Countless times families have been destroyed over the simple phrase, “Why didn’t you tell me?” Some people may be upset that you are pregnant, but if they were important to you in the first place they’ll be supportive.
When you become pregnant, make sure to tell your boyfriend or husband as soon as possible if he does not know already. It is under your discretion as to when you should tell your parents and friends as you should only do this when you feel comfortable in revealing this information.
Leg cramps are a common occurrence during pregnancy and can be annoying. To minimize the cramping you should exercise, make sure you get enough calcium each day, and finally you do a few light stretches just before going to bed. That should help you avoid leg cramps while you sleep.
Of course you are going to have some worries and questions when it comes to pregnancy. But, with tips like these, you don’t have to remain in the dark. You can understand so much more about what is going on and what you can expect throughout the pregnancy, and even those things that you should take extra notice of.