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Do you want to learn how to increase the likelihood that you will have a healthy pregnancy?
In this case, it’s important to create a unique pregnancy guide for yourself that includes important information regarding prenatal care appointments, your specific pregnancy diet, a list of things to avoid while pregnant, and sound advice for reducing stress.
However, always consult with your doctor before engaging in any pregnancy exercises, eating or avoiding specific foods, or employing stress-reduction techniques. It’s great to take an active role in your health, but remember to always follow your doctor’s orders.
Here are four tips for staying healthy and fit while expecting your baby, and they will do wonders for IVF and surrogate pregnancies too:
1. Eat Properly
There is no one-size-fits-all pregnancy diet, but some very common guidelines can help most women consume the right kinds of foods. Knowing what to avoid during pregnancy is just as important as knowing what to eat. Remember the following:
- Be careful with fish: avoid uncooked, under-cooked, or raw versions, as well as any that contain a high mercury content
- Avoid raw eggs, caffeine, processed meats, and organ meats
- Eat cooked eggs and salmon for protein
- Consume lean, well-cooked meats
- Include berries in your daily dietEat sweet potatoes
- Consume salads with leafy, dark greens like broccoli
2. Maintain Your Fitness
You can, thankfully, do a variety of pregnancy exercises. Customize any that are too difficult, and consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
- Moderate bicycling
- Non-strenuous dancing
- Walking
- Swimming
- Tai Chi
- Adapted yoga routines
3. Talk to Your Doctor
Discuss your pregnancy’s progress with your doctor. While no two cases are alike, there are many common signs of a healthy pregnancy to look for and your doctor will know, such as:
- The baby’s position within your body
- Movement of the fetus
- Normal levels for blood sugar and blood pressure
- Moderated, regular weight gain from week to week
- Estrogen and progesterone levels that are within safe limits
4. Deal with Pregnancy Stress
It’s no secret that stress can derail even the best-laid plans. This is especially true for expectant mothers. Here are some strategies for dealing with stress.
- Remember “R.E.D.” It stands for Rest, Exercise, and Diet. Aim for eight or more hours of sleep per day, do moderate exercise at least every other day, and eat a balanced, healthful diet.
- Make a daily schedule that includes at least one or two hours for yourself.
- Maintain a handy list of three people you can call for help and support if you have questions or become worried about anything.
- Have several books that you can read to help you relax. Avoid anything that might keep you awake at night or induce stress.
- Connect with people, chat with friends, and maintain social connections.
A healthy pregnancy does not happen by chance. Remember that you are the key ingredient in recognizing the signs of a healthy pregnancy, monitoring prenatal care milestones, avoiding stress during pregnancy, and creating a personalized pregnancy guide that you can consult on a daily basis. While you wait for your child, knowledge is your most powerful tool.
