So, you’ve been trying for ages and you’re finally pregnant? Congratulations! As you probably already know, this is just the start of your struggles. Every new mom wants the best for their child, even before it is born, which is why it is essential to ensure that you plan for a healthy pregnancy. There are a number of factors which you should consider, here are just 5 of them!
- Exercise
Ok, so you may not exactly feel like exercising when you’re blown up like a balloon but it has never been more important – think of the children! You needn’t carry out strenuous exercise – slow and steady options like walking, yoga, Pilates and swimming are all great options, or even a dedicated pregnancy class. Go easy on yourself by taking it slow and keeping cool and hydrated. Exercise will not only boost both yours and the baby’s physical health, it is also capable of lifting your mood, reducing stress and helping you to sleep better – after all, you need all of the sleep you can get over this 9 months!
- Plan Ahead
One of the next things you’ll need to focus on is your birth plan. What is your preferred procedure and who will your doctor be? A good obstetrician can be the key to a stress-free and healthy pregnancy, so be sure to choose yours carefully. If you’re seeking an obstetrician in Singapore, luckily there are some of the most competent doctors in the world at your fingertips. They can guide you through your pregnancy, your birth plan, what to expect, the birth itself and even the after care. It is invaluable having a professional on board who you can talk to in confidence about your concerns.
- Read Up
When it comes to having a baby, preparation is everything – not only for the good of the little one but also for your own peace of mind. Reading baby books and magazines can help you prepare for things you may not have even thought of before and it can also help you to realize that you are not alone.
- Kegels Are Key
One exercise which you won’t find people doing at the gym (or not that you know of, at least) are Kegels. These can help immeasurably with the birth process as they serve to strengthen the pelvic floor, which in turn supports your uterus, bladder and bowel. This can help to make the birth easier when it comes around and will also help you to spring back faster following the big event, preventing common issues such as incontinence. You can do these at any time – whilst driving, cooking or sitting at your desk, so there are no excuses!
- Stay Comfortable
If you’re comfortable, then the baby’s comfortable. By ensuring that you have maternity clothes that accommodate your body’s changes and shoes that won’t pinch your feet in the event of swelling, you can stay calm, relaxed and stress-free in the face of bodily changes.
No two pregnancies are the same and what is needed varies from woman to woman, but generally speaking these 5 steps are a great place to start if you want to do your best to support a healthy pregnancy.