If this is your first pregnancy, there are many things to get done prior to the arrival of the baby. Getting your house prepared, can be a choir and fun at the same time. Seek help from friends and family and follow the advice below to make the transition from pregnancy to having a baby in the home flow smoothly.
Will you be having a baby in nine months? Are you going to breastfeed? Will you be feeding in public and want to be discreet? Look into nursing clothing to help you do just that! Many different apparel companies make clothes designed for discrete breastfeeding. Nobody will be able to tell that you are feeding. If you’re nervous about it, try breastfeeding before a mirror. This way, you will see what the rest of the world will be seeing.
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.
Quit smoking as soon as you find out that you’re pregnant, and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke. The dangers of cigarette smoke to your baby are so extensive that it is absolutely worth the stress of trying to quit during your pregnancy. The sooner you quit the less extensive the damage will be.
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.
Think about getting a doula. A doula is a person who can help you through the entire birth process. They are able to provide support, assistance and encouragement during labor. They can assist your partner in being the best birth coach they can, and it gives you the comfort of having someone who is very experienced in the room with you.
Tell your doctor if you feel really swollen when you’re pregnant. Some women’s blood pressure gets dangerously high while pregnant; swollen feet can be a symptom of this problem. If you’re suffering from preeclampsia, your doctor needs to take of it as soon as possible to protect your health and that of your child.
If you are not sure how to handle a child or a newborn, talk to the mothers that you know. Offer to babysit for them. This way you are getting some experience, and your friend is getting a well deserved break from being a mother. Just keep in mind that no two children are the same!
Stretch your legs back and forth if you want to reduce cramps at night. Many women experience leg cramps during their pregnancy. Doing some stretches before bed is a good way to stave off such cramping.
Stay away from saunas and hot tubs during pregnancy. Pregnant women should never allow themselves to get overheated, because this can be extremely dangerous for their unborn babies. Certain spa oils tend to trigger contractions, especially in the initial two trimesters. Always try to avoid, clary sage, juniper and rosemary.
As you can see, there are many things that you need to get ready before baby comes. Being prepared will give you peace of mind and be able to get your head in the right place without worrying if you have everything ready! Making sure your house is ready for baby should be crossed off your list before baby’s arrival.