Whether you are a first time mom-to-be or adding to your brood, pregnancy is a special time for a woman. Almost as soon as the test turns positive, your body and life will begin to change as the preparation begins. The sheer wealth of information that will greet you concerning you, your pregnancy and your baby can be over-whelming. However, being as informed as you possibly can be about the nine months ahead will help you feel in control of your body again.
Around 50 to 90 percent of pregnant women suffer from some kind of sickness related to pregnancy according to the Mayo Clinic website. The deceptively named morning sickness can actually strike at any point of the day or night. Some women will experience vomiting, others only nausea and many women do not have any sickness at all. You may find if you do suffer with sickness that certain smells will trigger your nausea. Coffee, Chinese food and engine oil are just a few of the many things pregnant women have complained about making them feel sick. Remedies for morning sickness include dry ginger, crackers and dry cookies. It is a good idea to carry what ever relieves your sickness in your purse so you have something to hand if you feel sick while outside.
Unfortunately, the old adage regarding pregnant women eating for two is not true. In fact, you will be advised to add just an extra 300 calories to your diet during your pregnancy, according to the Healthy Children website. A healthy, balanced diet is even more important when you are pregnant to ensure your unborn baby develops properly. You may find that certain foods give you indigestion or make you feel nauseous after eating them. Cravings are also something, you may or may not experience. Eating a little and often, will ensure you keep your energy levels up. Talk to your doctor about prenatal vitamins you could be taking, in particular Folic acid which is recommended to pregnant women to decrease the chances of birth defects according to the Healthy Children website.
Light exercise is possible in pregnancy, and is recommended. Avoid exercises which require you to jump, and do not over-exert yourself. Swimming and walking are both easy to slide in to a routine and are beneficial too.
There are plenty of things to avoid when a woman is pregnant, smoking cigarettes, taking drugs and drinking alcohol are the obvious ones. However, there are many others a pregnant woman is recommended to avoid, that can have the same serious consequences. Certain types of fish contain varying levels of the toxin Mercury, which can be harmful to your baby's developing brain and nervous system, according to the American Pregnancy Association. You should avoid eating marlin and swordfish, as these contain dangerously high amounts of mercury. You can eat fresh, canned tuna in moderation, as this contains only small amounts of mercury. Mercury is also present in come household paints, so it is best to exercise caution when purchasing paint and always check the label. Unfortunately, the more common household cleaners are safe to use although, wearing gloves is always recommended.
As your delivery date approaches, you may experience "false labor" pains, also known as Braxton hicks. The pain varies from woman to woman, but usually includes a dull ache in the back coupled with a sharp, stretching pain around the stomach. Unlike actual contractions, Braxton hicks are irregular and not usually painful, according to the Healthy Children website. Braxton hicks are your body's way of preparing for labor.
A birth plan is a list a pregnant woman compiles detailing everything she wants for her labor and delivery. You have the opportunity to create one with either your doctor or part of a prenatal class should you decide to join one. Your birth plan will contain information such as who will be attending your delivery with you, any allergies, preferred labor positions and pain relief. Making a birth plan will help create the best experience for you. Once you have completed your birth plan, pack it in to your hospital bag ready for the big day.
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