Congratulations, you are pregnant to your first baby. Now, what should you do? First, you should see your pregnancy doctor in Provo immediately. Aside from your support group, your doctor will help you a lot in your new journey to motherhood. Then, follow the tips below to ensure you and your unborn child stay healthy throughout the nine months of your pregnancy.
Stay hydrated
Drinking eight to 10 glasses of water every day helps in supplying oxygen and essential nutrients to your baby. It also helps carry waste and carbon dioxide away. Drinking water can also prevent uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms such as headaches, fatigues, and UTIs, so stay hydrated for a healthy pregnancy.
Eat nutrient-rich foods
This includes fruits and veggies, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat milk, and protein from healthy sources. Eating fish eight to 12 ounces per week is also recommended for its omega 3s, which is critical to brain development. Eating folate-rich foods such as wheat germ, lentils, asparagus, and cereals is also vital to prevent congenital disabilities.
Avoid harmful foods
If there are certain foods that you need to include in your diet, there are also ones that you should avoid. This includes alcohol and fish that may have high levels of mercury. Some kind of fish like king mackerels contain mercury, which can be toxic for you and your baby. You should also cut out sugar-sweetened drinks and foods, caffeine, solid fats, and salt.
Track your weight gain
Don’t believe the old saying “eating for two.” The truth is, your baby doesn’t need that many extra calories during the first three months. The advisable weight gain rate for moms is one to four pounds in the first three months. From the fourth month until delivery, you should gain two to four pounds each month. That’s why you must track your weight gain and work with your doctor.
Exercise
You must become physically active during your pregnancy. Regular exercise can help you and your baby gain the right amount of weight, reduce bloating, leg cramps, and backaches. It also helps reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. Go for at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity daily. You can also do moderate activities like walking around the block, or moving around at least once an hour if you are lying still most of the day.
Check your medications
Some medications like ibuprofen can increase the chance of a miscarriage. Always consult with your pregnancy doctor in Provo before using any over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies.
Educate yourself
Attend a childbirth class to help you prepare for the delivery. Aside from your doctor, you can also learn about childbirth and infant care from professional staffs. You will also get to meet other soon-to-be moms and learn from their experiences.
Are you excited to take care of your newborn baby? Before you can do that, you need to take care of yourself and your unborn child first. Have regular checkups with your doctor and follow the tips we listed above. Those tips should help you keep a safe and healthy pregnancy.
