Preconception - Create A Strong Foundation
Pregnancy is one of the most important and beautiful phases in a woman’s life. This phase, though most beautiful, is very difficult. Over the years, our lifestyles have changed drastically. During pregnancy, a mother’s body undergoes several changes. This makes it more important for women to plan their pregnancy at least six months ahead.
If you are among those couples who are planning for a baby, here are some steps that can ensure a smooth journey into parenthood.
Healthy Eating
Yes, take a close look at your diet. Very rarely do we pay attention to the unhealthy stuff we are eating. Try to keep frozen and canned food to the minimum. Drink lots of water. Cut down on your coffee, cold drinks and alcohol. Take lots of fruits, juices, milk, eggs and vegetables. Take an additional Folic Acid supplement.
Your Weight
Your weight and your partner’s can make a huge difference in your pregnancy. Being overweight does not help in any way. During pregnancy, you will have to put on some 10-15 kgs in nine months. Have you ever thought what you’ll look like if you are overweight before pregnancy?? Overweight women have more difficulty in conceiving. And overweight men do not fare any better either in the entire process! Reduce as much as possible before you start trying for a baby and keep your weight steady for 3 months before your first trimester starts.
Exercise
Start exercising regularly. Do not start with heavy weights or 3-kilometer jogs on the first day. Begin slow and steady if you have never made a serious effort before. Simply walk up the stairs whenever possible instead of taking the lift. If your office is on the 20th floor, obviously this is not possible. In such cases, take a lift to the 15th floor and walk up the last five! How about walking to a bus stop, which is not too close to your home every morning? This might take a few months, but exercising will strengthen your muscles. You need a strong body to carry that baby inside you for nine months!
Charting Your Body Works
Observe your system for 6 months. Here are some of the points you need to record:
Any anomalies observed during this time may need immediate medical attention.
Preconception Check Up
It is suggested that you and your partner visit the doctor before you get pregnant. Get yourself checked from head to toe- Blood tests, urine tests, ultrasounds of your kidneys, stomach, uterus, etc. This is helpful when you actually start with your first trimester. Get a proper dental check up. The dentist may not be able to help you with a cavity in the middle of your pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the main prerogative of the parents should be giving birth to a healthy baby. A baby means a lot of changes and lot of sacrifices. The healthier you and your partner are, the more likely it is that you will conceive faster and carry to full term.
Every woman wants a complication free life during her pregnancy. This phase is the most beautiful period, but is very difficult. However, with some – preconception planning, pregnancy exercise, special care during first trimester pregnancy and healthy eating during pregnancy, you can enjoy a healthy pregnancy without any risk of pregnancy complications. Visit Pregnancy Planning to read more about pregnancy related issues.
Tags: exercise, first trimester, healthy eating, pre menstruation symptoms, preconception, pregnancy
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