It may be a missed period or sudden rush of nausea in the morning that pushes you to buy a pregnancy test. When you see those two pink lines, you’ll need a moment to let it sink in. Congratulations, you’re pregnant! Pregnancy is one of the most significant times in a woman’s life. It is a time of change and new beginnings. It is also a time of reflection and planning as a new parent.
After the reality of pregnancy has set in, and you’ve experienced a range of emotions, from excitement to shock, you’ll want to start planning. The best thing to do is to get proactive and start working towards a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. By contacting your doctor or midwife, exercising safely, and enjoying a well-balanced diet, you will be well on your way to having a fun-filled nine months and a gorgeous baby at the end of it.
First Things First: Doctor or Midwife?
If you haven’t already thought about it, you’ll want to decide whether you want to be treated by an obstetrician gynecologist (ob-gyn) or a certified midwife. Choosing who to take care of you and your baby during pregnancy is a very personal matter and is a decision you should be completely comfortable with. Relying on your medical history or personal beliefs can help make the most appropriate choice for you.
Avoid Harmful Habits
Your lifestyle has to change when pregnant, whether you like it or not. Things that can be potentially harmful to you and your baby should be avoided such as, smoking cigarettes, taking narcotics, drinking alcohol, consuming too much caffeine, and eating certain foods. You’ll also want to avoid heavy lifting or activities that are too strenuous. If you continue to exercise, make sure it is safe and not too intense. Face it, you will lose a certain amount of mobility after being pregnant!
Eating Right
When you become pregnant, your body starts changing and directing most nutrients and minerals to your baby to help him or her grow. It is necessary for you to replenish your supply and take in more vitamins and nutrients when pregnant. You will need to increase the intake of calcium, folic acid, iron, etc. Prenatal vitamins along with a balanced diet can help you remain healthy throughout your pregnancy and ensure your baby gets the nutrients he or she needs.
Stress-free Preparation
Always remember to stay calm and breathe when pregnant. It is a time of change and can be scary, with appointments to remember, a nursery to set up, a baby App to read every day, etc. So it is important to take things step by step. Buy a planner and write things down so you don’t forget appointments or to buy specific baby items. A great way to stay organized is by downloading our app on your phone so that you are up-to-speed when on the go. Help yourself stay organized and you’ll be well on your way.
If you have any tips on how to stay organized during pregnancy, let us know what they are.
Written by Manal, first time mom
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.
