Many people have questions about pregnancy and what to expect. How to best ensure the health of their growing baby is of prime concern. The tips laid out here will assist you in taking great care of both you and your unborn child during the pregnancy months.
Build up a bedtime routine to help improve your sleep while pregnant. When you are consistent with your routine of going to sleep, then your body naturally knows when it’s time to go to bed. Consider soothing rituals like an evening massage, warm bath or light bedtime reading.
Always use sunscreen when pregnant. Stay away from tanning beds, as well. Since pregnancy results in a woman’s skin being more sensitive, you elevate your chances of getting sunburn. Also, you want to look over the ingredients of the sunscreen you’re putting on, and make sure the chemicals aren’t harmful to your baby.
Make sure to take care of your teeth and mouth while pregnant. Being pregnant can actually cause you to develop dental problems, such as gingivitis. Always brush your teeth at least twice per day, and don’t forget to floss and use mouthwash. Visit your dentist with any problems.
You should be taking prenatal vitamins prior to getting pregnant. This will supply the needed nutrients for your baby’s development in the earliest part of pregnancy. These developments include the early stages of the spinal cord and brain. Making sure you get enough calcium, iron, and folic acid is very important, when you are pregnant.
You need more calories when you’re pregnant. Keep in mind that your baby is impacted by everything you eat. Eat healthier foods, like fruits and vegetables.
If you are experiencing constipation during your pregnancy, eat more fibrous foods like fruits, veggies and whole wheat products. The hormones involved in pregnancy can cause constipation. Avoid this uncomfortable condition by eating plenty of fiber!
When you are going to have a baby, do not overlook your partner or spouse. The chance is that they are nervous as well about your baby being born, so they need to be reassured as much as you do. Spend time together by going to the movies or taking a walk. Take advantage of the remaining time alone!
If you find out you are pregnant, you should immediately stop changing your cat’s litter. The reason to avoid changing cat litter is toxoplasmosis. Cats can be a host for this and the infection can pass to the fetus which can lead to stillbirth, birth defects, or a miscarriage.
During pregnancy, your body needs adequate support as you sleep. There are many brands of special contour pillows that are designed to give comforting support during pregnancy. You can always use a pillow you already have for support. Try sleeping with the pillow below your stomach and another under a knee.
Get your bags for the hospital ready as you are getting into the 3rd trimester or earlier. If you leave it to the last minute, you may find yourself in hospital with no personal belongings on hand. Be sure that you have your medical insurance card, a camera with batteries, and your birth plan.
Once you enter your third trimester, do a daily belly massage. Place a few pillows behind the back to ensure you aren’t lying down flat, and sit yourself down on a bed or couch. Use some oil, not lotion, for light pressure massaging on your belly. Put on relaxing music and remember to breathe. A massage like this will help you to relax, will soothe your baby, and the oil may even help to prevent stretch marks.
Many moms-to-be aren’t fully sure of the best way to take care of themselves during pregnancy. As society gains more knowledge on the subject, what’s best practice tends to change. However, if you bring to bear the sensible advice in this article, you will have made a major contribution to your health, your baby’s health, and the enjoyment of your pregnancy.