Pregnancy Essentials: Every Expectant Mother Should Know

While you’re waiting for your baby to be born, you have to be in charge of their wellbeing and care. There are a lot of rules that do well to help you keep your little one(s) safe from complications.

Although many of them are general wisdom, some are not obvious.

This article contains the most fundamental things you as a pregnant woman should know.

Here They Are:

Eat Well

Even though fast food cravings are more intense during this period of expectancy, you should try to eat a balanced diet at every meal. It’s important that you remember that you’re no longer eating for only yourself anymore so what you put in your body matters a lot.

There are some food items that are recommended because of their nutritional value. Some of them include seafood (properly cooked), fruits, vegetables, etc.

Take Your Vitamins

It’s something you’re going to be telling your bundle of joy in a few months, so you might heed the instruction as well. Your prenatal vitamins are important as they contain the basic nutrients pregnant mothers need. These nutrients prevent birth complications and help the fetus develop well. They include iron, calcium and folic acid.

Make sure to consult a doctor before getting any over the counter vitamins or multivitamins.

Don’t Drink or Smoke

If you don’t want your baby to be likely to have a nicotine addiction from a young age, then please don’t smoke during your pregnancy. It can also lead to reduced weight and puts them at risk of having learning challenges.

Also, avoid drinking alcohol during this period as kids born from mothers who drink during pregnancy can end up with learning disabilities, retarded growth, and behavioral issues, among other fetal alcohol syndromes. There is no allowed amount of alcohol to drink while you’re expecting, so you need to stay off alcohol of any kind, in any amount.

In addition, don’t drink too much caffeine as it can cause an increased heartbeat rate for your baby.

YOU CAN LOOK GOOD

It’s common for pregnant women to underestimate their freedom to dress impressively. There are several stores that sell very fashionable maternity tops and even dresses.

Also, you are recommended to try out doing little exercise and yoga too. They can help you burn excess fat, relieve muscle pains and elate your moods.

STAY OFF SOME SPECIFIC FOOD ITEMS

There are some food items that are not as friendly towards your baby and your body during pregnancy. First of all, stay off uncooked food, like raw meat or milk (unpasteurized) as they have bacteria that can lead to food poisoning and even worse, birth complications.

VISIT (OR TALK TO) THE DOCTOR AT WILL

Many pregnant women do not call their maternity doctors when they have issues. They call their friends and family members who have the tendency of creating an atmosphere of fear.

While it is great to call family and friends, it is important to note that their counsel cannot substitute that of your maternity doctor.

Before switching any form of medication, using an over-the-counter medicine, or taking any major healthwise steps, also ensure you talk to your doctor.

HYGIENE IS EVERYTHING

As you’re aware that you’re responsible for your health and that of your baby, pay extra attention to hygiene. There’s a whole host of bacteria and toxins that are harmful to you in this period, and steering clear of them is a priority.

This is particularly important when you have pets. These lovely animals carry a lot of bacteria on their bodies and in their feces which may not be dangerous to them, but they are of course dangerous for you and your baby.