Talk to anyone who’s gone through a recent childbirth, and they’ll be able to tell you dozens of things they didn’t know about pregnancy before it happened. From strange cravings to loose joints to pelvic wall changes, it’s safe to say the pregnancy holds a lot of surprises for most expecting parents!
Of course, there’s a big difference between small revelations and surprises that could put your health and your baby’s wellbeing at risk.
That’s why most smart parents hoping for a healthy pregnancy spend a fair amount of time preparing and planning. Pregnancy affects everyone in different ways, but knowing the basics of what to do and expect can offer great peace of mind. If you’re hoping for a smooth pregnancy, here are the key things to know.
Get Regular Checkups
As soon as you start talking with your partner about getting pregnant—or as soon as you think you might be pregnant—start scheduling checkups with your doctor. Your medical team will be your best resource when it comes to monitoring your health, allowing you to monitor the changes to your body as well as your developing baby with ease.
It’s also important to know when to call your doctor with concerns during pregnancy. Unusual cramping or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or severe pressure in the vagina or pelvic region are all signs to call for help.
Don’t forget to also get regular dental checkups as well! During pregnancy, you’re more likely to develop inflamed or infected gums.
Stay Active
Exercising during pregnancy can help you stay in shape as you gain weight, but it also offers a number of other advantages. Regular activity can help ease pregnancy-related pain and reduce the risk of complications.
Low-impact exercises like walking and swimming can be great for your body. However, activities with deep knee bends or waist-twisting can be detrimental, as can heavy lifting. Talk to your doctor before starting any new regimen.
At this time, you should also make sure you’re tracking your weight gain: most mothers can expect to gain anywhere from 25 to 35 pounds. Maintaining a healthy weight can decrease the risk of problems for both you and your baby.
Eat Right
Eating right is crucial during your pregnancy. While there are ongoing debates about the importance of certain foods and nutrients, there are a few things experts generally agree about:
- Get your recommended 5-7 fruits and vegetables per day
- Eat more folate-rich foods like lentils and asparagus
- Eat more fish, but avoid those that are high in mercury
- Eat foods that are high in fiber
- Eat more foods that are rich in calcium, like dairy and soy products
- Avoid soft cheeses, some of which can contain harmful bacteria
- Aim to eat around 300-500 more calories per day than your usual intake
- Drink more water
- Limit your caffeine
- Avoid alcohol
For many new mothers, a food diary can help ensure that you’re staying on top of all requirements. If you prefer a digital checklist, there are many helpful pregnancy diet apps that can help you track your daily meals.
In addition, expecting mothers should begin taking prenatal vitamins to ensure optimal health. This can be particularly helpful with issues like iron-deficiency anemia, which is common during pregnancy.
Make Healthy Changes
In addition to the tips above, there are a few extra changes worth making for your health and wellbeing.
Be sure to get any vaccinations your doctor recommends, including a regular flu shot. These can help defend you from infections that could affect your pregnancy and your developing child.
In addition, avoid exposure to toxins that could put your pregnancy at risk. This includes things like lead, certain chemical solvents, and cat litter.
You should also work to reduce your stress wherever possible. Though some aspects of pregnancy can be challenging, common tactics like investing in self-care can help you reduce any anxiety. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga and deep breathing, get enough sleep, and take care not to overmedicate.
Educate Yourself
One of the best ways to ensure your continued health—and that of your child—is to educate yourself. Check out pregnancy blogs, grab books from the library, and research online to learn more about what changes your body will be going through.
You should also consider signing up for a pregnancy class to help you learn what to expect, from pregnancy to early motherhood. These courses cover everything from what to expect from labor to the details of baby formula—including what types you may need. To learn more, continue reading here.
In addition, these classes also give you an opportunity to meet other expecting parents who are going through the same experience you are—which can often be a source of relief and comfort.
Aside from courses, spending time with a relative or friend’s newborn can help you get some real-world experience, and it can also give you an opportunity to ask questions and connect with like-minded parents.
As your delivery date approaches, don’t forget to tour birth facilities and take an opportunity to ask questions and make decisions about your delivery. If you are considering a home pregnancy, or if you’d like a friendly face with you at the hospital, consider researching and interviewing a midwife or doula.
Talk to Your Doctor for a Healthy Pregnancy
At the end of the day, all of these tips are crucial when it comes to having a healthy pregnancy. However, because pregnancy affects every woman differently—even when the same woman has multiple pregnancies—it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional.
Your doctor can help offer specific instructions based on your current health needs and the needs of your developing baby. Use the guide above as a jumping-off point, but be sure to run any diet or lifestyle changes by your doctor!
Want more advice to help you make the most of your health? Be sure to take a look at our other content for additional insights.
