Tips for a great Pregnancy | Few Tips Regarding Pregnancy & Motherhood | NextMamas.

Tips for a great Pregnancy | Few Tips Regarding Pregnancy & Motherhood | NextMamas.

A happy and healthy pregnancy is the dream of every mother worldwide. More often than not, we are consumed with plenty of worries regarding pregnancy and motherhood. It is important to take care of everything else but you come first. Here are some effective and easy ways to ensure that you have a happy and healthy pregnancy without doing much or making drastic changes to your current routine:

1. You can do it

Get rid of those insecurities. Numerous women across the world do it every day. This pregnancy is unique, beautiful, and one of the best things that have happened to you. You have to believe in yourself and your ability to get through it. Give yourself those pep talks whenever you need them. If you believe, you can.

2. Regular workouts are important

Do not indulge in heavy lifting but do not give up on workouts completely. Yes, it is important to keep yourself well-rested and comfortable but exercising is very important for a healthy pregnancy. Try different things like yoga or Pilates. Or just go for a walk every day. Keep yourself active.

3. Get comfortable shoes

Your feet swell up during pregnancy and this is completely normal. Many women experience an increase in shoe size during pregnancy. It is important to get comfortable walking shoes and sandals and pack away those stilettos for a while. Sandals and flip-flops can be pretty too. You can occasionally wear your pretty heels but why risk it?

4. Use pregnancy-safe cosmetics

Your skin absorbs everything that you put on it. This is why it is very important to watch the products that you are using carefully and make sure that you read the label and understand the ingredients that are used in the composition. Everything that your skin absorbs has the potential to reach your baby and can potentially harm them.

5. Stay Hydrated

Do you know what is the best remedy to prevent water retention which is the main cause of swelling in your body? Drink more water. As ironic as it sounds, it is very important to keep hydrated during pregnancy to keep electrolyte levels in balance and prevent swelling. Besides, it is always good to stay hydrated.

6. Eat better

Focus on eating more whole foods and ensuring that you have good nutrition. Eat all the vegetables, fruits, yogurts, and healthy food that you can. Make sure that you consume a balanced diet rich in micronutrients including essential vitamins and lots of protein. Do not eat any undercooked meat or fish.

7. Hit the Spa! But do it right

If you have any doubts, consult with your doctor first before getting a spa done. Talk to your massage therapist and tell them that you are pregnant so that they are more careful when it comes to selecting oils and lotions for you. Some of them can induce contractions in the uterus. Also, avoid hot baths and overheating your body.

8. Work on those muscle cramps

Drinking lots of water can reduce muscle cramps. Also, make sure that you stretch enough before doing any physical exercise. Work on relieving muscle cramps by giving yourself massages or visiting a specialist who can. Apply an ice pack wherever you have cramps.

9. Sleep right

If you are someone who is used to sleeping on your back or stomach, pregnancy is not the right time to do so. Getting used to sleeping on the sides, the left side is preferable because some studies suggest that it improves blood flow to the placenta. Keep your knees bent for extra comfort. Avoid sleeping on the back as it cuts blood flow through major blood vessels (because the uterus presses on it).

10. Use a lot of *safe* sunscreen

Do not keep your daily dose of vitamin D but be careful when you go out in the sun. Use a good amount of sunscreen to take care of your skin. If you can avoid sunbathing and stay indoors more especially during summertime, then this is a better option during pregnancy. Your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight during this period. Also, make sure that you protect your eyes by keeping those sunglasses on.

11. Choose herbal options whenever you can

This does not mean that you have to avoid the medication suggested by your doctor. Before you try any home remedies to relieve nausea, heartburn, and other symptoms of pregnancy, consult with your doctor and ask them if these are safe. Generally, they are safe. During pregnancy, a lot of western medications have to be avoided and home remedies might be your only source of relief.

Author: Dr. Iram Gill

Dr. Iram Gill is an MBBS doctor by profession and a Content Writer by passion. She is a mother as well and has observed the health-related challenges faced by mothers and babies. She wants to play her part in increasing access and support for breastfeeding and maternal health problems.