Giving your baby the best start in life begins during the nine months of pregnancy and these effective tips can make sure that you know exactly what to do. It is an amazing time that can be a challenge if you are unsure what to expect. The advice below can help you know what to do.
Slather on the sunscreen. Don’t go near a tanning bed. You are much more likely to burn while you are pregnant, and getting so hot is not the best thing for either you or the baby. However, make sure that the sunscreen you use contains only chemicals that are safe for your baby.
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.
One of the best things that women can do in order to achieve a healthy pregnancy is to exercise. This will not only help you to stay in shape during pregnancy, but it also lowers the risk of miscarriage. It has been proven that exercise reduces labor complications and length.
If it is possible, take birthing classes when you are pregnant. These classes help to educate you about what you can expect in the delivery room. Knowing these things can help make the whole labor process easier. Also, bring your spouse with you if you can so they will know what to expect.
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.
Get the film and cameras ready ahead of time and get them packed in the bag. It is one of those things that everyone tends to forget and regrets later when things get started in a rush. If you have it ready in your birthing bag you’ll be able to capture those newborn pictures.
Make a birthing plan. Write down exactly what you will need to have the experience you want. Make sure who ever will be there when you give birth sees this plan. Making it ahead of time will allow you to make it when you are calm, and will give everyone enough time to be prepared.
Learn how to read nutrition labels and find out what to avoid. Stay with items that are low in fat and low in calories. Keep stocked with items that are high in fiber. If you do have a sugary snack, drink it with a glass of milk to keep your blood sugar levels normal.
It may sound a bit odd, but keep away from kitty litter if you’re pregnant. Toxoplasmosis from cat feces can cause health problems for your unborn baby. Don’t risk your child’s health; stay away from the cat litter.
Skin has elasticity, but it can only stretch so far. It is perfectly normal for the belly to itch as it is growing during pregnancy. Don’t try taking a hot shower or bath to relieve the itchiness. Hot water will wipe away the natural oils on your skin and make it more dried out and itchy. Moisturize with a heavy cream, like petroleum jelly or cocoa butter. If you skin has already begun itching, wear loose clothing and avoid scratching.
As you can see from the tips above, knowing what to do to give your baby the best start in life begins right now. These effective tips will make it easy to decide what to do as you share this challenging time with your baby. Your baby will thank you for making the right choices.