Congratulations! There is nothing as exciting as the prospect of a baby joining your family, and though you may have been planning your pregnancy for quite some time, when you see those blue lines, it can still be quite the shock.
But fear not; embracing pregnancy can be a beautiful thing. Settling into pregnancy and the sacrifices it entails is an adventure in itself, and even if it’s not your first, a learning curve to match your bump awaits. Adapting can be hard, especially in the early days before you’re showing, when you may be coy about announcing the reason you’re passing on the wine at your annual friend’s Christmas dinner.
We’re here to help make things as smooth as possible, so here are five IDEAL ways to embrace your pregnancy.
Eat Healthily
You are now eating for two, although this does not mean you need to eat double portions every meal. Rather, you need to make sure that the food you are eating is healthy and as nutrient-rich as possible to support the baby’s development.
Your growing baby will receive their quota of the vitamins first, leaving you with the remainder, which is why some pregnant women do not look their best during the first trimester. Don’t worry though, as this stage doesn’t last long and you’ll soon be blooming.
Once the nausea is over, use this time to embrace healthy food that you love. Here’s some helpful advice we’ve collated on eating when pregnant for more on this subject.
Relax & Get A Prenatal Massage
Your baby is growing at a rate of knots, and you have the dubious honour of your body taking the strain. As the guys at IVF Matters tell us, the first trimester is usually the most tough to endure.
You’re getting used to a lot of changes, both bodily and hormonal, and this period is defined by nausea, unbelievable, unenviable tiredness and mood swings as your body releases hormones in huge surges. Again, this is a short-lived phase of your pregnancy, so try to relax and take the opportunity to have early nights, long baths and be waited on hand and foot, and guilt free.
Also, consider booking in for a prenatal massage. This is a specific type of massage tailored to help relieve the strains and pains caused by pregnancy. Give those sore feet, achy shoulder and lower back pains that inevitably come with pregnancy some attention. been given some attention and relief.
Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath or practicing mediation, taking time out each day to unwind and give your mind and body the rest it needs during will go a long way.
Read: Helpful pregnancy tips
Connect With Your Baby
When you are in the early stages of pregnancy, it can feel surreal that you’re carrying a baby, especially if you have not yet had your first scan. One way to connect with your baby, and appreciate exactly what is happening inside you, is to follow a pregnancy calendar to give you some perspective on what is going on.
Did you know that at 11 weeks pregnant your baby is sprout sized? Following these little milestones and fascinating facts will help you feel a sense of control over proceedings, and bring about a bonding with your baby which is one of the most cherished connections life can give.
Invest In A Book
There are a million pregnancy books out there, but rather than getting the traditional science-based, advice-heavy one, why not invest in a good novel or memoir about the experience of motherhood instead?
Pregnancy books are full of facts and, while informative, can sometimes make you worry. A good bit of literature, on the other hand, can help you relax while still being informative.
Take Parenting Prep Classes
Knowledge is power. Moreover, it can help reduce anxieties and stress. Having a baby can be daunting and parenting classes cover everything from giving birth to postpartum health, helping new parents feel a tiny bit more prepared. Indeed, the BBC highlights that “Some studies have linked antenatal classes to successful breastfeeding and a more positive experience of childbirth”, and such classes are certainly worth considering.
Speak to your midwife, GP or health advisor about where to find free antenatal classes near you. Alternatively, the NHS has a useful search feature here – just enter your postcode or town.
The Bottom Line
Being pregnant is a wonderful experience for many, and not so great for others, equally. One thing for certain though, is that the moment you hold your baby safely in your arms for the first time, any fears and worries will dissipate. Magic.
*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP, midwife, prenatal or postpartum nurse, or specialist health professional first*