The feeling of giving birth to a child is something that almost every woman wants to experience at some point in her life. From getting to know about the pregnancy to giving birth, these nine months of pregnancy takes her on a roller-coaster ride. As the foetus develops and grows, the woman experiences different stages of pregnancy and a lot of changes in her body.
Now, you need to have a healthy body, diet and lifestyle in order to give birth to a healthy baby. You do know right that you cannot afford to overlook the importance of prenatal care? If you are wondering how you can take good care of yourself during pregnancy, here are eight ways which will help you. Let’s go!
See a doctor
As soon as you get to know about your pregnancy, rush to a gynaecologist. This will help you get some early advice for a healthy pregnancy, and help you to chalk out a pregnancy plan. You can also look up on the internet for ‘chiropractor near me’ for a safe and cautious care during pregnancy.
Take a healthy diet
You should aim for a healthy and balanced diet. A balanced diet is one which provides the body with essential nutrition i.e. macronutrients, micronutrients, fluids and adequate calories. Remember, your body now needs nutrition for two people so taking a nutritious diet is very important. Have fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid spicy and oily food, and take plenty of fluids.
Your gynaecologist may even prescribe some supplements for you so that the body is able to meet the nutrition requirement.
Exercise regularly
Exercise has many benefits for the general health, and unless you have complications, you should exercise regularly during pregnancy. 30 minutes of daily exercise is good for the body, though it is advisable that you check with your doctor first before starting any exercise regime.
Exercise helps in reducing stress, boosts your mood, helps you to cope up with increased weight which puts pressure on the joints, and most importantly, increases the chances of a healthy labour and birth. One can also consider visiting a chiropractor during pregnancy who works with your body and helps you to cope up with pain and backache.
Be careful about hygiene
It’s very important to maintain general hygiene around yourself during pregnancy. Indulging in activities or chores like cleaning, washing clothes or gardening can expose you to toxic chemicals or bacteria, and may harm you and your baby.
One should also maintain food hygiene. Washing fruits and vegetables well before consuming them is an important step in the process. Wash your hands properly before having meals and after using the toilet. This reduces the chances of germs and bacteria going into your system.
Stop drinking and smoking
Consuming alcohol and smoking during pregnancy has long been associated with birth defects, miscarriage and complications. You should totally avoid consuming these. However, if you are not able to refrain from these, ask your doctor for advice. He may offer some support or refer you to special programs that help pregnant women quit smoking.
Get educated
Educating yourself about pregnancy, prenatal care and postnatal care is important even if this is not your first baby. Attending childbirth classes help you to be more prepared for delivery. Read books, watch videos and talk to experienced people to continuously educate yourself about pregnancy.
Take appropriate rest
No matter what, take appropriate rets during the day. Standing for long hours or running around to do chores can strain your back and legs, and make you feel very tired. Aim for a good eight hours of sleep during the night. It is normal to feel fatigue in the first few months of pregnancy due to high level of hormonal changes in the body. Getting enough rest can help you cope up with it.
Stay positive
Amidst all this, don’t forget to stay positive and full of life. Pregnancy can be a tough period for some but there is no reason for you to feel sad. You should do whatever makes you happy. Some activities like exercising, listening to music, talking to people can work wonders for you. It is also important to stay around people who are positive and make you feel positive. Find ways to meet other pregnant women and hang out with them.
Everyone wants to deliver a healthy baby and there is no reason prenatal care should be compromised on. These ways of taking care during pregnancy will help you to stay healthy and feel positive about yourself.