When it comes to pregnancy, there are so many things going on. On one hand you and your partner are so excited you can barely contain yourselves. While on the other hand there are so many things that need to be considered, especially during the first trimester, that need to be taken into consideration.
Granted did you know that there are a few simple things that you can do to make sure your pregnancy is as safe as possible? If you follow at least some of these little tips throughout the nine months of your pregnancy, chances are your baby will be as healthy as possible.
1. Stay Healthy.
If you are thinking about getting pregnant, or if you already are, chances are you already know the basic pregnancy advice. Most of your doctors will make sure that you know the big no- no's in pregnancy. You should not be smoking or put yourself in a situation where you are around second-hand smoke and no drinking are the biggest ones.
2. Take your Prenatal Vitamins.
Even if you are at the beginning of the conceiving process, it is not a bad idea to go ahead and start taking prenatals. This is because the neural cord, which ends up being your babies spinal cord and brain, will develop within the first 4-6 weeks of pregnancy. So things like folic acid, iron, calcium, and several other essential nutrients are very important to put into your body on a daily basis.
3. Exercise.
Being active in general is very important for your health. It can reduce your stress levels, help you control your weight, boost your mood, improve circulation in your limbs, and help you sleep better. When you are pregnant taking an exercise class that is modified specifically for pregnant women or even just going on a simple 20 minute walk can help keep your body running like a well oiled machine.
Things like swimming, pilates, and yoga are some other really good activities that pregnant women can do. Before doing any of these though, you need to make sure it is completely ok with your doctor first.
4. Make a birth plan.
Are you depending on an epidural? Or dead set on having a doula? One of the best things you can do to make sure most, if not all, of your wishes, are met is to make a birth plan and make sure that it includes everything from how you want to give birth to who exactly you want in the delivery room.
Your birth plan should also include things like the positions you think you would be most comfortable in for labor and delivery, procedures you would like to avoid if you want music or not, and even who you want to be the first to meet your new baby. For more information click here.
5. Get Educated.
It doesn't matter if this is your first baby or your tenth, a birthing class will help you feel as prepared as possible for your big day. You will not only have a chance to learn all there is about childbirth and infant care, but you will be able to ask very specific questions about any concerns you may have.
6. Practice Kegels.
To strengthen your pelvic floor muscles are as strong as needed to help you during delivery, kegel exercises are the way to go. The best part about Kegels is that no one can even tell if you are doing them or not. This means you can do them in the car, at your desk at work, or even while standing in line at the grocery store.
