Pregnancy: A wonderful experience

Pregnancy is arguably the most angelic phase in women’s life. A couple’s relationship is not complete unless they become proud parents. All said and done, extra care must be taken by expecting parents, especially women during delicate pregnancy. We have colligated some important, basic pregnancy care tips for good health pre and post pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a crucial period when a woman is raising a fetus inside her womb. Usually, the period ranges to 40 weeks or 9 months. Though there are variable symptoms some colloquial pregnancy symptoms can be considered if they match with yours. It doesn’t matter whether you are planning a family or already pregnant, you need a thorough planning and stay organised and take care of yourself and upcoming new addition to the family.

Pregnancy SymptomsDifferent women have different symptoms. Some of the common signs seen in pregnant women are missed menses, morning illness, food cravings, unable to sleep, restlessness, backache, nausea, puking among many others. Some women have typical symptoms either throughout the pregnancy phase or for the initial few months.

Benefiting Exercises

In the pregnancy period, you are not allowed to exercise heavily as you might be doing earlier. Light exercises such as yoga, meditation, walking is considered fruitful for expecting mother and child. You will have to consult your gynaecologist before getting started because she will be the one looking after your overall progress. She may devise an exercise routine for you to follow daily.

Importance of dietTaking care of diet is essential throughout and post pregnancy. Even though you will most likely suffer from food cravings, pay attention to taking fully nutritious food because the fetus inside is not capable of feeding itself and is totally dependent on your diet. A simple adjustment is by saying strict no to fat and junk food that are filled with blank calories. If you follow a healthy diet, it will keep your child healthy. Remember, the health of your unborn is proportional to your prenatal nutrition. Have wholesome diet and drink enough water to keep body fluid levels balanced. Avoid smoking and alcohol as they can hamper the growth of the fetus.

Initial few monthsIn the first three months, you will experience changes in your body. The baby speedily develops during this period and you have to extra cautious. Immediately report your gynaecologist for any unusual abdomen pain or bleeding. You might feel tired, exhausted and sick in the mornings. If this persists for long, then consult your doctor.

Middle PeriodNormally, it’s a complication free phase and expectant mothers enjoy it to the fullest. You can see your baby bump slowly increasing and feel the baby movements inside the womb. Have fresh fruits and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation.

Final StagesYou may feel heavy, overburdened, unable to eat much, short breathlessness by the time you reach 9th month. You have to be extra vigilant during this time as your baby may arrive soon. Consult your gynaecologist at the earliest.

Postnatal DepressionIt has been seen that few women undergo depression after the delivery. Thankfully, this condition lasts only for few days. A professional help is all you need if the problems persists.

7 Foods That Every Expectant Mother Should Avoid

Whenever one finds out that she is pregnant, there is a lot of joy that comes with that. The family also comes up with safety measures and daily routines that will keep her and the baby safe including a change of diet. Although you need to eat a bit more than before, you have to be very careful of your food choices during pregnancy and below are some of those foods that are not recommended at this time.

Pineapples

Pineapples are rich in minerals and vitamins, with some that can even cure stomach infections, but they are not safe for your pregnancy. It is believed that they can cause a miscarriage, especially in the early stages of the pregnancy. Furthermore, they have an element known as bromelain that causes diarrhoea.

Unripe Papaya

Papaya and fruits, in general, have to be washed before you eat because they have parasites on the surface. Unripe papaya is even worse since it can lead to uterine contraction that may harm the baby. If you must eat this fruit, then make sure it is ripe.

Meat

No matter how much you love meat, you have to put your unborn baby first and avoid it. This is because meat has coliform bacteria and salmonella that is not suitable for pregnant women. Freshly cooked meat is fine, but you have to be wary of reheated meat because it may contain harmful Listeria.

Fish

Not all fish are bad. In fact, having it in your daily diet is perfect for you and the baby, but you should avoid sea fish due to its mercury content. If this mercury builds up in the body, it will harm not only your brain and nerves but also the unborn baby.

Cigarettes and Alcohol

For a long time, smoking and alcohol have been known to cause a host of health issues. You need to avoid them, especially when pregnant, to avoid hindering the development of the baby's brain.

Milk and Juice

Pasteurised milk and yogurt are the only exceptions when it comes to milk for pregnant mothers. Anything else with raw milk is not safe including cheese. If you have to take juice then ensure that it is also pasteurised.

Caffeine

It is recommended that you take only a cup of tea, coffee or chocolate a day. Going beyond that robs you the all-important sleep that you need. Too much caffeine can also cause abortion and also inhibit normal weight gain in the child.

You must be careful when pregnant, and above foods need to be avoided at all costs. On top of that, change your routine and habits to ensure that you and the baby are safe.