Dos and Don'ts of Pregnancy

For most of the women, pregnancy is one of the most exciting and wonderful experiences in life. During those nine months, the world seem to be changing around them. A pregnant woman has to alter many of her old habits and get accustomed to new ones. You can say that their entire lifestyle changes and why not when it happens for the better. Not only their emotions or perceptions change but their physic too undergo changes during pregnancy. And this is the time when they have to take the best care of their own self, which ultimately reaches the baby in the womb.

A pregnant woman is generally bombarded with many advises. Some of them are entertaining, some are tough to follow and some are just very funny but relevant. In the whole chaos of the advises, it is always better to listen to your doctor's advice. Before you try to follow anything new, consult your gynecologist or midwife to avoid any unwanted event. The first three months of pregnancy are very important and greatly affect the overall development of the fetus. Given below are some of the dos and don'ts of pregnancy in the first trimester that apply throughout pregnancy.

Dos of Pregnancy

• Take all the medication regularly that you are prescribed by your doctor.
• Attend your parental check ups regularly.
• Relaxing and resting frequently is very important during pregnancy.
• Try to engage in things that you like doing and be content with yourself.
• Try to avoid stressful situations at home and at workplace.
• Follow a healthy diet packed with nutrients.
• Consume high iron foods along with foods high in calcium and folic acid as they are good for you and the baby.
• Maintain good water intake to avoid dehydration during pregnancy.
• If you suffer from constipation, try eating high fiber foods, such as, fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Get some light fitness regimen to keep yourself fit. Walking and swimming is ideal but it is important to consult your doctor first.
• Try to maintain your body temperature at normal levels.
• Keep the house clean, hygienic and fresh. It will help you keep infections at bay.
• Climb the staircase slowly and carefully. Basically, move around with care.
• Wear loose, comfortable and clean maternity clothes.
• Keep the use of cosmetics and beauty products to the minimum.
• Take a sound good night sleep everyday.

Don'ts of Pregnancy

• Do not neglect any severe and unusual body signals, such as heavy blood flow, vaginal discharge, abdominal cramps, and back pain etc. as it can be dangerous to you and your baby.
• Do not consume any over the counter medicines without consulting your doctor.
• Consumption of decaffeinated drinks such as, cold drinks, tea, coffee etc. should be avoided.
• Avoid stressful situations. Stay away from people who make you feel sad, suppressed, or any negative feeling.
• Do not engage in vigorous exercise routines as they can damage your health.
• Avoid any contact with products that are full of chemicals and toxins, such as, pesticides and paints etc.
• Do not smoke and consume alcoholic drinks including wine as it can cause some of the irreversible disorders in your baby.
• Do not stray away from ideal pregnancy diet. Avoid eating junk food that is full of unnecessary fats and sugars.
• At home too, do not eat over spicy and high fat food.
• High temperature can be threatening for the growth of the baby so avoid sauna, steam, and hot baths during pregnancy.
• Avoid consumption of saccharine, sodium, and foods with artificial preservatives.
• Do not overeat just because you are pregnant.
• Do not fall prey to fad diets, which are generally imbalanced and lack overall nutritional value that is important for the healthy growth of the baby.

These tips would assist you in safer childbirth and give you the most cherished gift of your life - a healthy baby!