Once your pregnancy is confirmed, there are several precautions you are bound to consider. There are umpteen books that guide and provide a step-by-step process and there is your family to shower loads of love till the tiny one finally enters the world.
Here are five things you should do without fail when you are pregnant.
1: Visit the doctor regularly
Your pre-natal appointments are important as they help to run a check on your vitals. It is essential to know the health condition of your baby from time to time; this determines how well you are doing. The doctor will assist you through your medications and prescribe necessary vitamins that may be lacking in your body. Therefore, prioritise appointments with your doctor.
2: Get your recommended dose of folic acid every day
What you eat will help in your baby’s growth. Therefore, having quality amount of folic acid in the food you consume is important. Folic acid reduces heart and spinal problems for the baby. Studies have shown that women who eat food rich in folic acid before and during their pregnancy have the least chance of having a baby with neural tube defect. Spinach, sprouts and green beans are rich in folic acid, but this is not enough for the baby. Women suffering from medical issues like diabetes and sickle cell disease have to consume food highly rich in folic acid. It is better you consult your doctor to get the prescription for the daily dose of folic acid in your food.
3: It is important to stay relaxed
It is a common fact that women attend to household chores while men work. There might be situations when the washing machine, phone and food need attention at the same time. It is important for pregnant women to stay calm and take things at ease. If it is necessary for you to do the cleaning and washing, do them one at a time. Make sure you take frequent breaks to rest. Stress increases the chances of premature birth and, in some cases, abnormal baby. If you need help, join a local support group for pregnant women. Interacting with them can make you feel light. Who knows, they might have the same problems that you have. Sharing is caring; share your problems with them. In that way, you can make friends as well as be stress-free.
If you are a working woman, do not sit in front of your desk the whole day. Take frequent breaks and walk along the corridor of your office for some time. Excessive use of mobile phones, computers and other electronic gadgets does no good to your baby. Take snacks to office. Being pregnant can cause morning sickness; small snacks help you through such situations. Most important of all, do not forget to drink a lot of water.
4: Don’t be idle in your free time
Make the most out of your free time. Be it reading books or watching movies. Make sure it is the most entertaining hobby in your list. Watch a comedy film and laugh out loud. When the mother is happy, the baby automatically tends to be happy; this is the beauty of bearing a child. If you find joy in shopping, then retail therapy it is. Do anything, but do not sit idle in your free time. It will eventually end up as stress which is no good to you and your baby.
5: Have your own pregnancy photo shoot
Memories last a life time. Have a photo shoot every month to know the gradual growth of your baby’s temporary residence – your tummy. Else, take pictures with your family, friends and other relatives and don’t forget to focus the camera on your bump. Baby shower is the best time to click pictures. Proudly flaunt your bump in front of the camera and record your memories. Looking back at these pictures will give you a proud feeling. A miracle is inside your tummy. You are bearing a tiny baby in your womb. Who knows, tomorrow when your child grows up, he/she may want to see your gleaming face when you were pregnant with them.
Being pregnant is a gift, enjoy it.