There are many things you need to know when you are pregnant that can make all the difference in making your pregnancy easier and better for you and your baby. Just like many other life experiences, pregnancy is a time to learn how to make the right choices. Start with the practical tips in the article below.
Make sure to avoid household chores that can be harmful to your unborn baby. Pregnant women should not clean with harsh chemicals, such as bleach, climb ladders, and especially should avoid cleaning a cat’s litter box. Pay attention to your surroundings and get help for any activity you think might be dangerous.
Regular exercise is essential when you are pregnant. Exercise can make labor and recovery easier, will keep your weight down and can reduce the chances of complications in pregnancy.
Pay attention to your body, and don’t write strange things off as simply symptoms of pregnancy. For example, swelling of the joints and face is common during pregnancy, but excessive and sudden swelling can herald pre-eclampsia. If you notice any symptoms that seem strange or haven’t been mentioned as expected by your doctor, give them a call.
Sleep whenever you get a chance to during your pregnancy. Difficulty sleeping is one of the biggest complaints women have while pregnant. As our bodies go through these massive changes, the ease of being able to get a full night’s sleep decreases. Take naps when the opportunity presents itself.
Your doctor or nurse will check your legs and feet for edema during each prenatal visit. It may not be of concern, or the edema can be indicative of high blood pressure, which can be extremely dangerous for you and the baby. This condition must be treated so that the birth can be healthy.
Do not take any medications when you are pregnant until you have asked your doctor if it is okay. Depending on your pregnancy, certain medications can cause you or your baby serious medical problems. Many antidepressants need to be avoided as they could cause your child to be born with birth defects.
Exercising as much as possible during pregnancy will increase the chances for a healthy baby and mother. It will increase your energy, and give you the confidence you’ll need to take on the challenges of motherhood.
Avoid pesticides by eating locally grown organic foods. We don’t know how much effect these pesticides can have on a fetus but it is better to be safe than sorry. If not buying organic, stick with items with heavy peels like oranges as they are likely to be less contaminated.
If you have decided how to have your baby, maybe natural childbirth, or caesarian section, you should write a birth plan. The birth plan will detail all of your expectations for delivery and should be shared with your doctors. Having this plan will calm your anxiety as your delivery date approaches.
Being pregnant can be exhausting because you are doing everything for two. One tip is to slow down and take a short nap whenever you can. It will be good for you and your baby, just to forget about everything and take a power nap to try to refresh yourself and take a break.
To help ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy, take an HIV test. If there is any chance you could be HIV positive, it is better to know so you can prevent it causing harm to your baby. You will also know how to find doctors that specialize in HIV.
Learning to make the choices that are best for you and your baby start with the common sense and practical tips in the article above. It can make all the difference to your unborn child. You will be well on your way to a healthier and happier baby when you make these choices now.
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