Pregnancy can be simultaneously thrilling and terrifying. Nothing matches the wonder of knowing that you are bringing a new life into the world, yet the unknowns can be very stressful. Having a good base of knowledge about pregnancy can help relieve many of these fears, so here is some great advice for any expectant mother.
You should change your eating habits to include healthy choices. If you change the way you eat now, when you become pregnant you will continue to eat healthy. You should eat a variety of foods but make sure they are healthy choices. Proper nutrition is important while trying to conceive.
Start exercising now. If you have healthy habits now they will continue during pregnancy. Exercise is important while you are pregnant because it keeps you healthy. It reduces the risk of having a miscarriage and also can make your labor easier. You should talk to your doctor before exercising while pregnant.
Make sure the water you’re drinking during your pregnancy is safe. Tap water may contain fluoride, percholate, and lead, while bottled water may contain the same impurities as well as other chemicals such as BPA. Instead, invest in a tap water filter, and use a stainless steel or glass water bottle when out of the house.
Take pregnancy classes early in your pregnancy. Having a way to learn information with others that are in the same situation can make things a lot less stressful during this experience. If a question isn’t answered, then this is also the perfect place to ask.
Not every craving you have, while pregnant, should be satisfied. Put your baby’s needs first when making your food choices. If you gorge yourself on unhealthy foods, you are depriving your baby of much-needed vitamins and nutrients.
When preparing for sleep while pregnant, set up a bedtime routine. Include activities that will relax you. Some relaxing activities are, drinking warm milk, reading a book or having a warm shower. When you are relaxed, it will be easier for you to fall asleep. Be sure that you have your routine set up so that you allow yourself enough time for sleep.
Jot down what you eat and create a food diary. Keeping track of what you eat will help to ensure that you are getting the proper nutrition. It can also help you to speak with your doctor about your diet too.
Consider reviewing birth stories to gain an understanding of the process. Birth stories are generally told from a mother’s point of view. Reading those stories will help you feel more calm about everything.
Be prepared to lose a few extra strands of hair in the postpartum period. Many women are not aware that this is common and are alarmed when it occurs. The extra shedding is likely due to hormonal changes and should stop within a couple of months. If it continues for a long time or you are concerned, ask your doctor to check your thyroid levels.
If the stresses of life get to you while you are pregnant, indulge in a relaxing prenatal massage. Many therapists are trained to provide massages to pregnant women and know which areas to avoid, as well as, which areas might need the most attention. A massage makes a lovely gift to yourself as your due date draws closer.
By educating yourself on the basics of pregnancy and answering the most common questions, you can help relieve yourself of anxiety and stress and just focus on the joy of expecting a new child. This will be healthier for you and your baby. Remember what you’ve learned from this article and before you know it, you’ll have a healthy, happy newborn in your arms.