The journey of motherhood and pregnancy is the
most extraordinary and challenging time for mothers. Bringing a new life to the
world requires a lot of courage, strength, and patience. Expecting mothers put
all their efforts into the baby`s well-being in their womb but often forget to
take care of themselves. They usually take for granted how this ignorance may
lead to serious health problems. It is essential to stay fit and active during
pregnancy to deliver a healthy baby. If you follow a regular healthy routine
during the pregnancy phase, you will only be able to take care of your baby
post-delivery.
Staying healthy and active during pregnancy is
not rocket science. The more you consider yourself an average human, the
healthier you will feel. According to experts, having a healthy pregnancy
involves:
- Following
a proper diet.
- Getting
regular exercise.
- Changing
old lifestyle.
- Being
extra careful about what to avoid.
Here we have gathered a few tips to help
ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy journey.
Schedule A Doctor`s Visit
As soon as you learn about being pregnant, you
must schedule an appointment with a doctor. Your doctor will examine your
physical health to check for any risk factors. He will ask you to visit every 4
to 6 weeks, depending on your condition. Your doctor will record your blood
pressure, weight, sugar levels, and other health-related factors. He will also
take your samples for mandatory tests, including urine tests, blood test count,
hepatitis, and other infectious diseases. Pre-natal care is very important for
a healthy pregnancy. Make sure to discuss your concerns with your doctor
throughout the journey.
Follow A Balanced Diet
Maintaining a well-balanced diet is of the
most crucial things to do for yourself and your baby. Be sure which food you
should consume and avoid during the journey. Your diet should include
nutritious meals and exclude raw/undercooked food. You should reduce caffeine
intake and avoid smoking and alcohol as it affects your pregnancy. Increase the
number of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains in your daily diet.
It is generally recommended to avoid eating raw meat and fish as it may risk
you for food poisoning. Also, avoid taking unpasteurized milk as it may contain
bacteria that can cause infections.
Exercise Regularly
One of the best and most important things is
to exercise regularly during pregnancy. Exercising regularly helps you to stay
active and deliver smoothly. Health experts recommend walking regularly in the
last trimester to ensure a safe delivery process. Exercise at least 20 minutes
daily to ease discomfort and stay physically strong. Make sure you don`t overdo
it and start gradually. It is also essential to stay hydrated all day long to
prevent sweating and overheating. Doing yoga also helps you stay relaxed both
mentally and physically. Do consult your instructor to practice steps that are
essential for your pregnancy.
Take Multivitamins
Multivitamins play a vital role in the growth
of your baby. It`s generally recommended to start taking folic acid and
multivitamins as soon as you learn you`re pregnant. This is because your baby
needs essential nutrients like calcium and iron for his brain, bones, and other
organs` development. Please consult your doctor before starting any multivitamins
or supplements, as they may cause irritation or nausea after consuming them. A
smart way is to take multivitamins with a light snack or candy to feel easy.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes
You`ll probably face more nausea and morning sickness during the early weeks of pregnancy. Following a healthy routine and changing your daily lifestyle is essential to stay active throughout your pregnancy. You should skip high-intensity chores and activities that may make you feel exhausted. Play games, read books, educate yourself, eat healthily, and socialize with your loved ones to boost your mood. Make sure you take proper sleep as it reduces your stress levels. You can also enroll in parenting, childbirth, or breastfeeding classes that will benefit you afterward. This will help you socialize with people of the same interests and make you aware of taking care of your newborn later.