8 Tips for a More Comfortable Pregnancy: A Mom-To-Be’s How-To Guide
Pregnancy is known to be magical and life-changing, but having a bun in the oven can be harder on some than on others. Each mother-to-be will have a different pregnancy.
Whether it’s your first, second, or last pregnancy, here are eight tips for enjoying a more comfortable time with your pea in the pod.
Prevent morning sickness proactively
Morning sickness is arguably the most famous early pregnancy symptom, and it often presents as nausea, vomiting, general discomfort around food. Some people experience morning dizzies, others not at all. Thankfully, there are ways to manage your morning sickness no matter how far along you are.
Most morning sickness happens in the first trimester. Strong scents can often trigger it, so pay attention to any smells that send you running for the bathroom. Wear loose-fitting clothes, especially around your abdomen. Eat your food in small meals, and experiment with blander foods if your stomach feels sensitive.
If you’re looking for extra help saying good night for your morning sickness, some supplements help ease morning sickness and provide your body with vital nutrients.
Hydrate and nourish your body
Your body experiences many changes and stressors during pregnancy, so make sure you eat and drink enough to support it. A healthy balanced diet and at least ten cups of water a day will make your baby bump time a breeze. Make sure you follow your doctor’s advice on dietary needs during pregnancy.
You might have some wild cravings, so treat yourself without overdoing it. Try and prioritize nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables where possible.
Rest all you can
This advice might be obvious, but you will need a lot more rest during your pregnancy. That means taking extra time to sit, lie down, prop your feet up, and catch breaks. If possible, try to take on less work and avoid any additional commitments.
Be gentle with yourself and understand you might not be able to do everything you usually do. Listen to your body and remember that you’re not just eating for two, but sleeping for two as well.
Support your body
Aches and pains during pregnancy are commonplace, so it’s good to start thinking about what you can do to support your body. Feet often swell and widen during pregnancy, so find comfortable and supportive shoes that you can slide on and off easily.
Finding a supportive bra will help keep you comfortable and ease back pain. Lower back pain comes from the bump as you grow, so a belly belt is an excellent way to keep your stomach relaxed. It can also help with walking and posture in the third trimester.
Adapt your sleeping positions
Once you reach your second trimester, sleeping will become more complex. The baby moves around, and your stomach grows in size, so it might be time to adjust how you sleep.
Usually, supportive pillows and a good mattress can help pregnant women sleep. By the third trimester, having a pad under your stomach at night is expected and supports overall wellness and comfort.
Helpful sleep changes may include sleeping upright in a recliner or couch to help to relieve pressure on your stomach and surrounding area. Whatever solutions you use, be sure to catch as many Zs as possible to reduce stress on yourself and the baby.
Gentle exercise and stretches
While your doctor can tell you exactly how much exercise is safe for you during pregnancy, generally, it’s a great idea to keep moving. Exercises can include daily walks, gentle yoga, other forms of light cardio if approved by a doctor.
Blood flow changes during pregnancy, so it’s essential to move around and help your fluids traverse the body.
Warm baths and water therapy
A warm bath using Epsom salts and other essential oils can help relax and soothe the aches and pains during pregnancy. Be mindful of your allergies and the strong fragrances in bath salts or bath bombs.
Water therapy is also an excellent way to work out tension gently and target the most painful areas of your body.
Massages and self-care
A professional massage, or even one given by your partner, will loosen up tight knots and sore joints. Your physical health and comfort are always at the forefront during pregnancy, but often mental health falls through the cracks.
Take time for yourself, and process what you experience while pregnant. Meditation and yoga do help, but it never hurts to take the time and seek counseling and therapy as you transition into motherhood.
Conclusion
Every pregnancy and mother’s experience is different, so you might have hardships you weren’t prepared for. Take advice from your doctor, and use these tips to help your body adjust and stay healthy. You know your body best, so try not to take on more work or commitments than you can handle. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a relaxing ride to meet your family’s newest member.