Congratulations on your pregnancy! What an exciting time and so much to learn and watch out for. Here are 5 tips to help you along with your pregnancy.
1. Prepare your body for your pregnancy
Your health and well-being should always be a priority, but it’s especially important when you are have a baby. Here is a great post from whattoexpect.com Eating Well in the First Trimester. Besides making a good well balanced diet a priority you should avoid any toxins, like smoking, alcohol, illicit drugs and even things as paint thinners, nail polish removers.
During pregnancy your blood volume increases, so make sure to drink more water to support this. Drinking water also helps with hemorrhoids, UTI’s, fatigue, headaches, swelling and other symptoms. Aim for 8-10 glasses per day, maybe ad a squeeze of lemon or a splash of your favourite choice o fruit to make it more enjoyable.
2. Educate yourself
Attending childbirth classes will help you feel more prepared. Not only will you learn about infant care, but you can get answers to any concerns. You will also find out how to go about planning your birth plan.
3. Exercise at least five times a week
Staying active is important for your general health and can help you reduce stress, control your weight, improve circulation, boost your mood, and sleep better. Walking at least 15-30 minutes every day at a moderate pace a fun way to incorporate some social time while walking is a PreKangaTrail walk. Taking a pregnancy approved yoga or pilates class. Another great activity is swimming, but check with your doctor before starting any exercise program. Listen to your body, though, and don’t overdo it.
4. Treat yourself during your pregnancy
Treating yourself now is good for your mental and emotional well-being as you prepare for big life changes, but you you need to be careful before booking your next spa appointment. Avoid saunas and certain essential oils (included are juniper, rosemary and clary sage). Also make sure you mention you are pregnant for your next massage.
Some great ideas are a body pillow, belly bands to help distribute the weight, foot massages or relaxing baths (not too hot) with your favourite book.
5. Consider hiring a midwife or doula
Many people associate midwives or doulas with home births and don’t consider them for hospitals or birth centers. However, both can assist you through the entirety of your pregnancy, as well as in the birth room. They are a great support and have a vast amount of information and experience that they can share with you on-call 24/7.
My name is Tanja and I am a professional maternity and newborn photographer and I’d love to capture your pregnancy. Contact me to schedule your session.
