Top Tips for Looking After Yourself During Pregnancy
It is important that you look after yourself during your pregnancy, both physically, and mentally. It can often seem overwhelming, as when you fall pregnant you have hundreds of different things to think about preparing before the baby comes, as well as get used to the changes going on in your body. It is therefore vital that you take the time and space to look after yourself. When you look after yourself, you are looking after your baby too.
Here are some top tips for looking after yourself during pregnancy.
#1 Get support
Make sure you ask for support. It can be hard to do, but you’ll find it much easier on this new journey of yours when you are surrounded by the right kind of support. First, speak to your close friends and loved ones, who are more than likely going to want to get involved anyway, to see how they can support you. It might be a friend on the other end of the phone when things get overwhelming, or a quick trip to the shops for you when you are feeling nauseous. You should also get support if you feel anything abnormal with your body, this can range from sickness to aches and pains. There are plenty of specialists out there, such as a pregnancy chiropractor, that can help you along the way.
#2 Meet with your midwife
It is important to build a good relationship with your midwife. They will be with you from the beginning of your journey, right through to the end. Schedule regular appointments with your midwife, and let them get to know you. They are there to support you and make the experience the best it can be.
#3 Be adaptable to changes and challenges
With anything in life, there will always be changes and challenges. You must adopt a flexible mindset right from the start, so rather than viewing these changes as obstacles, or negative steps on your journey, you can adapt accordingly. An open mind will help you significantly on this journey.
#4 Keep on top of your health
Where possible, keep on top of your health. Make sure you are eating a nutritious diet to give your body the energy, strength, and vitamins it needs to grow a new baby. You should also speak to your doctor to see how much exercise you can do, and aim to exercise as much as your body will allow you to, stay physically fit. Lastly, you should get lots of rest. Sleep is vital for the growth of your baby, as well as your mental health and general wellbeing. Without quality sleep, you may find yourself struggling mentally more than usual. Aim to get anywhere between 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep at night. It can be helpful to make a morning and evening routine each day, to help you implement healthy habits.
It is vital when you are pregnant that you look after yourself. When you look after yourself, you are also looking after your baby.