Whether you’re planning a pregnancy or you have already conceived, you know that there are many factors that go into the process of growing a baby. Although hundreds of books have been written on the subject, there are certain things you should keep in mind when you’re trying to achieve a healthy pregnancy.
Doctor’s Orders
While it may sound obvious, the most important tip for a healthy pregnancy is to follow the instructions you get from your medical practitioner. If your obstetrician tells you to cut down on salt, drink more water or watch your weight, do your best to follow the instructions to a T. Remember that you’re only having this baby; your obstetrician has not only specialized in the process, but she has delivered dozens of babies a year. She really does know what she’s talking about when it comes to the health of you and your baby.
Old Wives’ Tales
Once you announce that you’re expecting, every woman who has ever given birth will feel she has the right to give advice and warnings, as well as captivate you with horror stories of labor and birth. You can’t tell the sex of your baby with a needle on a thread or by the way you’re carrying the baby; if you have a question, make a note to ask your doctor on the next visit rather than taking Aunt Sally’s word for it, especially if it has to do with something you should eat or do that might compromise you or your baby’s health.
Eating for Two
Keep in mind that eating for two doesn’t mean eating twice as much food; it means that you need to watch your nutrition so that your baby gets the vitamins and nutrients he needs to grow to full-term. Take your prenatal vitamins, but don’t look at the vitamins as a pass to eat as much junk food as you wish. Cut down or eliminate empty calorie foods and caffeine, and don’t drink alcohol or smoke while you’re pregnant.
Stay Fit
Now is not the time to start training for a marathon, but you should strive to exercise regularly so that your body is in its best shape when the time comes to deliver your baby. If you already have an exercise regimen, you can typically continue it; if you didn’t exercise regularly before you got pregnant you can make a point to walk daily or start a light exercise routine. Either way, check with your doctor first to be sure it’s safe for you and your baby.
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