Being a first-time mum is an incredibly exciting experience, but it’s hard not to be scared of the adventure ahead of you. Whether you have a strong support network around you or you’re going it alone, pregancy can be incredibly scary for someone who has never done it before. In fact, it’s scary for those that have done it before too!
To help you feel at ease about what’s ahead, try remembering these 9 simple pregnancy tips on safety and nutrition
1. Have A Balanced Diet, But Know When To Say Yes To Your Cravings
Sticking to a balanced diet is important regardless of your situation, but it’s even more essential when you’re growing a baby. In addition to drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day, you should be eating 4-5 nutrient-rich meals. Foods like fortified cereals, asparagus, lentils and oranges are especially good for a mum-to-be.
2. Plan Ahead And Write A Birth Plan
Are you counting on having a water birth at home, or determined on that epidural? Make sure you write down all of your birth wishes and then give a copy to everyone who is involved with the delivery. This could include who you want to be present, where you want to give birth and how you want it to happen.
For advice on how to write a birth plan, you can read this handy guide.
3. Take Everything You Hear With A Pinch Of Salt, Lots Of Things Are Just Hearsay
Throughout your pregnancy you will have lots of different people giving you advice, telling you all sorts of things they have picked up over the years. Whilst some of it might be true, it’s important to remember to take everything with a pinch of salt as a lot of it is just hearsay.
4. When Something Unexpected Happens, Don’t Turn Straight To Google
As mentioned above, pregnancy can be quite a scary time for some and as a new Mum, you won’t know what’s normal and what isn’t. Whilst it can be tempting to turn to Google when something doesn’t feel right, you may find that results worry you much more than they should. If you’re really concerned about something, contact your doctor or midwife for help.
Whether you’re having your own baby or you’re a surrogate, turning to Google is always a bad idea. For more information on surrogacy, you can visit the ConceiveAbilities website.
5. Connect With Your Baby
Whilst pregnant, a mother can really connect to their child. You can feel them moving and kicking, and these are moments that should really be enjoyed during pregnancy. Not only will you feel your baby, but you will be able to talk to your child, as babies love to hear to the voice of the mother.
It is very important for mothers to connect to their child as it will help avoid a stressful pregnancy and any early birth risks. Remember, being pregnant can be fun as well!
6. Maternity Shopping Is Hard, But Once You Find The Perfect Pair Of Jeans Stick With Them
Finding clothes that are comfortable whilst pregnancy can be difficult, but once you find that perfect pair of maternity jeans - don’t let them go!
Great jeans are hard to come by when you’re pregnant so if you find a pair you can wear comfortably, it’s best to stock up.
7. Try To Continue Exercising Regularly
Exercising may be the last thing on your mind when you’re pregnant, but trying to keep up a small routine will help you feel much better and benefit you post pregnancy. Be sure to check what exercises you midwife or doctor recommend before you start.
8. Treat Yourself To A Relaxing Mum To Be Spa Package or Treatment
One way to treat yourself for nine months of pregnancy is a mum to be spa package. Designed to specifically relax those that are expecting, these kinds of treatments are becoming more and more popular. Get yourself booked in and enjoy relaxation before your little bundle of joy arrives.
For ideas of what kinds of packages spas offer, trying searching for packages in your local area. If that fails, as those around you if they’ve heard of anything similar.
9. Remember That You Are Beautiful, And What You’re Doing Is Amazing
One of the most important things to remember as a mum to be is that what you are doing is absolutely incredible. You are creating a life and bringing it into this world, so don’t let anyone take that achievement from you.
So, if you’re a first-time mum, there’s absolutely no need to worry! If you’re not a first time Mum, why not share your top tips in the comment section below.