Having a baby is a serious commitment, especially for first-time moms with only an idea of what to expect. In case you've already heard the good news, try to temper your excitement with the realization that your body will change in the following months. These changes will affect your daily routines, your dietary preferences, and your moods, so make sure you're braced for the long haul. Your baby bump can only get bigger, and it's better if you know there's a real reason why you have to go through all that so you can experience the joys of being a mom.
Keep Moving
Baby
In spite of popular opinion that you're supposed to limit your physical activity during pregnancy, you should know that exercise is still a key to body development, especially when you're expecting a newborn along the way. Yoga classes and aerobic routines are highly recommended during the first and second trimesters, because these regulate the flow of oxygen through your body. Oxygen is a key ingredient to proper mental growth, and a proper breathing pace carries it on to the unborn child through the umbilical cord. Make sure you're enrolled in a fitness class that complements your pregnancy stage; Lamaze classes should prepare you for labor as well as provide a good workout routine.
Eat Right
Proper diet is a given during pregnancy, but many first-time moms fail to watch their diets, arguing that they're providing for their bodies as well as for their babies. There's some truth in this, but you're actually feeding for one until delivery. Sure, the nutrients are carried into the unborn child, and proper nutrition is beneficial. But make sure you don't double your daily servings of fruits and veggies in an attempt to compensate. Maintain a healthy diet recommended by your doctor, and stop all the vices you've acquired prior to the pregnancy. This applies to alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine - keep this watch list in mind until you've weaned your newborn from breast milk.
Stay Fit
Physical recovery and better health is crucial throughout your pregnancy, so seek professional counseling and help if you suddenly feel sick or depressed. Your body is adjusting to the changes with a surge of hormones, and you'll feel mood swings which may lead to psychosomatic symptoms of illness or injury. It's still better to be safe than to be sorry, though; regular consultations are still recommended so long as these don't compromise your condition. Consult your doctor about the routines you probably should avoid, such as medication programs or dental treatments that may affect the health of the unborn child. You only have the opportunity to carry your baby for the next nine months, so ensure your trimester is time is well spent.
Changes Come With Your Baby Bump
Proud and sporting a baby bump? There's more to having a baby than the joys and the anticipation. Check out symptoms and signs you'll probably experience while expecting.