Preparing for a new baby and dealing with the physical and emotional changes wrought by pregnancy can be challenging, even for women who are already mothers. However, even experienced mothers can be taught new tricks due to the constant emergence of new pregnancy information. This article lists a few pointers that might just make things run that little bit smoother.
To help you be able sleep through the night plan your water consumption out carefully. Drink plenty of water in the day time; however, you should taper off in the evening before you go to bed. Doing this reduces the chances of getting up in the night to go to the bathroom.
Don’t feel bad turning down social events while pregnant. Your friends will understand if you are not able to make it. During pregnancy you may feel fatigued and nauseous. Don’t push yourself if you don’t feel up to it.
Take some prenatal vitamins before you get pregnant. Your baby begins developing its neural cord, which eventually turns into the brain and spinal cord, during the first trimester of pregnancy. To have a healthy baby you must get the right vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron and folic acid, from conception to delivery.
Don’t travel in the later stages of pregnancy, without discussing it with your doctor, first. Bring prenatal medical records with you, however, just in case anything should happen.
Have someone else fill up the gas tank in your car. Gas fumes are not good for you or your baby. It is much better to ask for help than put yourself at risk.
Sleeping on the left side of your body is a good idea in your third trimester. This position give your baby the best supply of blood, and increases circulation to your uterus and kidneys. You shouldn’t sleep on your back because this is the absolute worst position for the blood flow.
Natural Remedies
You should try natural remedies instead of medical ones if you come down with a common cold. Over-the-counter medication drugs can cause harm to your baby. There are natural remedies for many common ailments. Your doctor will also have good ideas on what you can do.
Eating crackers and other neutral foods through your pregnancy is important. Foods with a bland flavor will most likely be easier for your stomach and sense of smell to tolerate. It’s also important to avoid acidic or greasy foods that could give you heartburn or worsen your nausea.
It is normal to be excited about preparing a nursery for an incoming baby. However, remember that exposure to paint fumes while pregnant is potentially harmful to a developing baby. Ventilate the room and keep your windows open at all times if you are painting. You’ll also need a family member or friend to help so that you do not overtire yourself.
While you are pregnant, you should avoid all foods that contain caffeine. Caffeine can interfere with your ability to get the restful sleep that is essential to stay healthy. If you suffer from nausea, try eating crackers during the day. Eating healthy can help you get enough sleep.
Be careful about pressures on your body when you sleep during pregnancy. Provide your body with the necessary support. If you can afford it, you should look for the special pillows made to support a pregnant body. If you cannot afford or find one, you can try using a normal pillow instead. Consider sleeping with a pillow under your stomach and one under your knee.
As you near the beginning of your 3rd trimester, you should go ahead and get a bag packed for the hospital. You never know what will happen with your pregnancy, and it is better to be safe than sorry. Pack your camera, extra batteries, insurance cards as well as a copy of the birth plan.
Pregnancy can intensify the sense of smell, making everyday odors nauseating. If you are sensitive to smells during pregnancy, you can carry a scented handkerchief to counteract the offensive smells. You can use the scent as a buffer against odors that cause you to feel nauseated.
Unless your doctor says otherwise, you should never neglect exercise while pregnant. Low-impact activities such as swimming and walking are great ways to strengthen your muscles, lessen back pain and keep your heart strong and healthy.
Yoga and meditation are great for pregnant women. Both are great natural relaxation strategies. If you’ve got a stressed-out partner, ask him to join you too.
Stay hydrated with at least 64 ounces of water every day. Staying hydrated is important for both you and your unborn child. It also keeps you from overeating. Sometimes people think they are hungry when they are really just dehydrated. If you are full of food but want more, try some water instead.
Make an appointment with your physician prior to attempting to become pregnant. He can conduct a thorough examination to ensure that you are in good enough physical condition to bear a child. Problems may be treated or ruled out, like obesity, diabetes and thyroid issues.
Pregnancy should be an exciting and joyful time. So, make a conscious decision to use the advice in this article – you deserve it!