Take the time to really enjoy your pregnancy. The nine months will seem like an eternity when you are going through it, but soon enough, you will miss that kicking in your belly. As blessed as carrying a child is, there is a lot to consider, do and deal with. This article will give you some tips on how to handle it all.
Is a baby coming? Are you planning to breastfeed your baby? Are you thinking about doing so publicly or are you looking to be more discreet. You can use nursing clothing for this occasion. There are places that sell outfits you can use to hide breastfeeding in public. This means that nobody will be able to see what you’re trying to do. You might practice breastfeeding before a mirror to get the hang of doing it discreetly.
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.
Start taking pregnancy belly pictures early. Many women like to have early pictures to compare against as the months pass. If you turn out not to want them, you don’t have to keep them, but you can’t decide later that you want to keep photographs that you never had taken.
If you or your loved one are attempting to conceive a child, learn to track her cycles and adhere to them closely. By learning your cycles, you will be more in tune to knowing the best times to try to conceive. In addition to increasing your odds of becoming pregnant, knowing your ovulation period will also aid in pinpointing your due date should you become pregnant.
Engage in Kegel exercises each day. This activity can improve your pelvic muscles, which affect your bladder, bowels and uterus. Kegels will help with your delivery, and they can be done just about anywhere, including in the car or at work. To do them correctly, you should squeeze like you want to stop yourself from using the bathroom. Hold this position for three seconds and then relax for three. Do this in sets of ten.
Don’t forget your partner or spouse when you’re pregnant. They are most likely as nervous about the baby as you are, so they may need reassurance too. You should try to spend time together as a couple by going out on a date. Get as much time in together as you can before your bundle of joy comes along!
Try to stay away from caffeinated drinks when you are pregnant. Caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea and soda can cause your blood pressure to become elevated, which can lead to serious health problems for both you and your fetus. There are a variety of different decaffeinated versions of soda, tea, and coffee.
Write out your birth plan and make sure your doctor and labor coach have a copy. List out what type of medications you are willing to have and in what circumstances you want to move to different laboring methods. Of course, your birth plan is only a plan and if things need to change for the safety of your labor, don’t worry and just go with it.
Now that you have seen some of the ways that you can have a happier, healthier pregnancy and also prepare for your delivery, you can rest assured that these nine months will soon be a distant memory. A treasured memory though. Don’t forget to take the time to reflect on your experience.