Prenatal care refers to the act of having a healthy lifestyle while pregnant. This includes going to the doctor on a regular basis and making good choices in what to eat and drink. If you are consistent in having a healthy pregnancy, you are more likely to have a healthy birth.
As soon as you find out that you are pregnant, it is best to schedule a visit to your doctor. Then, your doctor will review your medical history. With this, he/she will know your condition and your baby’s situation. Now, here are some tips on how to have a healthy pregnancy:
Create a Birth Plan
One essential tip to have a healthy pregnancy is to create a birth plan. Write down your goals and give a copy to everyone involved in the delivery.
When writing a plan, consider the loved ones or friends you wish to be present during delivery. Make sure you get a pre-pregnancy check up on the first week. Write down the procedures you want to avoid during the entire pregnancy. It is also recommended to determine what kind of pain medications you plan to have. Project the possible complications that may result thereafter and how you can solve it. Maintain open communication with your doctor and build a relationship founded on trust.
Do the Kegel Exercises
The kegel exercises can strengthen the muscles in your pelvic floor. The pelvic floor supports the uterus, bowels, and bladder. If you do it correctly, this simple exercise can aid in making delivery easier.
You can practice doing the kegel in your car. You can do this while sitting, lying down, or standing at your home.
To do this, practice squeezing like you are about to stop the flow of your urine. Hold it for three seconds. Then relax for another three seconds. Then, repeat this process 10 times.
Educate Yourself
Make sure to attend a childbirth class, even if it’s not your first baby. With this, you will feel more prepared for what will happen. You can learn more about infant care in the class. Also, you can have the chance to ask questions and raise your concerns to the experts. Finally, you will be acquainted with the staff and the facility that the medical institution provides.
This is also a good time to talk about your family’s medical history. Communicate with your doctor regarding the problems of your family members during past pregnancies. You can also talk about your fears and how to combat such issues.
Exercise
During pregnancy, it is important to stay active. With this, you can reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and control your weight. Exercising can boost your mood and help you sleep better.
Each day, you can walk around your house for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure that you do this in shaded areas or indoors to prevent overheating.
Apart from walking, you can do swimming, yoga, and pilates. These are great exercises that you can try. However, check with your doctor first before beginning on any exercise plan. It is important to listen to your body and do not push too hard because this can affect the baby.
Switch the Household Chores
Household chores like cleaning the bathroom or gardening can be risky when you are pregnant. Exposure to harsh chemicals, lifting heavy objects, or coming in contact with germs can harm your baby.
Make sure that you switch household chores and avoid heavy lifting. Avoid climbing on ladders and standing for a long time. If you are working in the house, you can use gloves and wash your hand after doing the chores.
Take Vitamins
Even when you are on the first week of pregnancy, it is best to drink prenatal vitamins. On the first month, the neural cord begins to develop. This will soon become spinal cord and brain. As such, it is important to get a pre pregnancy check up to provide your baby with essential nutrients. Examples of these are calcium, folic acid, and iron at the beginning.
You can get the vitamins by having a prescription from the doctor. If you feel light-headed as you take them, you can drink it after taking a light snack. Try drinking it at night time too. Moreover, you can chew candy or gum after drinking the prenatal vitamins to combat nausea.
