The journey of pregnancy can be overwhelming. First off, you are witnessing a rush of emotions of all kinds- joy for your baby, doubts about you and your body, anxiety about whether you are well-equipped yet, eagerness( how will she look?), exhaustion from carrying around all the extra weight and sometimes plain amusement from all the advice you receive.
Pregnancy is a truly magical nine months. Annie Murphy Paul, in her revolutionary book, "Origins" states that a baby is shaped even before it has come out into the world. The nurture vs. nature conundrum likely starts much earlier.
It's crucial that the mother deliberates on her own well-being, feelings and experiences during this period.
Here are some things that will help an expecting mom:
Trust your body:
You might notice that you are prone to the flu a lot more at this time. Or, traveling in a bus that you take every day suddenly seems unsafe now. Science says that our bodies are in a heightened state of awareness and vulnerability due to a lowered immunity of the body to avoid rejecting the fetus as a foreign body. Your body has a natural way to adjust to its upcoming tasks. Just trust the process.
Make your meals matter
It is a myth that you now have to eat for two. This is the time to eat healthy, with every meal rich in essential nutrients like folate protein and iron. Doctors recommend maintaining a high-fibre diet to avoid flatulence and constipation. Eating several mini-meals a day can keep you from feeling heavy and exhausted while also helping with conditions like gestational diabetes.
Stay away from injuries
I wish I had known this before my pregnancy. I was in my fifth month of carrying my eldest daughter when I had sprain on my ankle. My daughter is now 10, yet my ankle is unforgiving, especially on days when I have to be on my feet for a prolonged time.
Physical injuries during pregnancy require immediate care and treatment. Little precautions like placing the seat-belt for support below the belly can go a long way in preventing long-term pain and discomfort.
Watch the stress
Experts say that managing stress might be the single most important factor for a healthy birth weight and brain development for the fetus. Emotional stress and work-related stress, or even stress that comes with attempts at kicking the smoking habit or alcohol can be effectively managed with stress-busters like prenatal yoga, soothing music and aromatherapy.
Of course, the biggest stress-reliever is a bear hug! This is also a good time to up your intimacy with your partner since the coming days can make that a challenge.
Move it!
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women should get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day for at least 6 days a week,the only exception being women with medical conditions that require them not to move. Regular exercise can alleviate common symptoms like backache, constipation and morning sickness. It is also the best way to prepare your body for the upcoming mega-task: the birth of your baby!
About the author:
Devishobha Chandramouli is the founder and editor of Kidskintha- a platform dedicated to helping millennial parents raise happy kids. Get your own FREE copy of the eBook "137 Proven Productivity Hacks For The Millennial Parent" now.