Pregnancy Tips
I’ve always viewed pregnancy as such a beautiful thing - excited for the day that I would eventually become a mama. But let’s be real - as beautiful as it is, pregnancy can be extremely hard. Your body literally goes through a major transformation within that 9 months. You endure an entire physical and lifestyle change that can be daunting yet exceptional.
Through those 9 months, we as moms experience mental, physical, and emotional changes that can shake us to our core and we have to be mindful of how we treat ourselves and our bodies as we prepare for the arrival of our babies.
When I was a first time mom, I was completely in the dark about what to expect, and let’s just say I needed a lot of guidance. Of course there are so many tips I could give - but remember, every pregnancy is different and every mama has specific needs.
Below are a few things to be cognizant of that may help you navigate pregnancy a bit easier. Some obvious, and some, though it sounds easy - it is a necessity that will really change the trajectory of your physical and mental health during pregnancy. Hope this helps!
Find a healthcare provider you trust. Whether it’s your OB-GYN, a doula, or a midwife - connect with a provider that you trust and that will support your labor and deliver wants/needs. Even if that means “shopping around”. At 26 weeks pregnant with my third I switched my OB and could not have been happier with my decision. The peace of mind and comfortability I felt with my new doctor that supported my desires, was knowledgeable and communicated my options and the risks, gave me such reassurance that I didn’t need to settle and it’s okay to keep seeking out support until you’re satisfied.
Educate yourself on the process! Our bodies undertake a huge transition so be sure to educate yourself on what to expect during each phase and trimester and how to best mitigate any challenges or how to be aware of any potential problems or risks. Especially my first time mamas, make sure you:
Know the do’s and don’ts.
Understand the milestones and changes your body will undergo.
Ask questions to your healthcare provider.
Know your birth options and any risks involved.
Listen to your body! This is your time to be selfish! Our bodies are changing - and changing fast! Although we may want to continue doing all the things we’re accustomed to, sometimes we just can’t. Listen to your body if it tells you to STOP, slow down, rest, or if you feel something is off! Also listen to your body if you need to move a bit more, exercise, and of course seek help if anything feels off or uncomfortable. Your body was designed for this and your baby will let you know if something is wrong.
Communicate your needs! As your body is changing so quickly, be sure to seek help when you need it. Communicate your needs to your partner, doctor, job, etc. Inevitably, we can’t do this alone and we can’t do everything we may want or are used to, so let your partner tap in and be sure they know where you need help. Whether it’s extra down time or just a listening ear and compassion on your hard days - don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Slow down and REST. Your body is working overtime and needs ample time to rest! I know we’re busy - especially if you already have other little ones at home and work and a household to maintain, but it truly is important to rest as much as you can. And you will be tired. Your body will be tired so be mindful of taking on too much (physically and mentally). First trimester fatigue is common - and for the mamas with little ones at home while pregnant, the fatigue can be magnified. But rest your mind and body when you can.
Be mindful of what you put into your body. Drink lots of water! Hydration is key! At least 64oz daily (8 to 12 cups). Also be sure to maintain a healthy diet. Good nutrition is helpful for you and baby. Stay away from any foods that may harm baby. Ask your doctor and research best practices for your dietary needs. Also start taking prenatals daily!
Move your body. This is also important and can help ensure a healthy pregnancy journey. Light exercise (or whatever your body and doctor deem acceptable) is helpful. Stretching and walking is healthy for mom and baby. And will also prepare you for labor and delivery. Get a yoga ball! This helped me so much during my pregnancy. Remember, you will most likely be sore, and achy but movement and stretching can help alleviate some of that stress and tension on your body.
Seek support. Having a support system can make the pregnancy journey so much more bearable. Whether it’s your partner, family, close friend - a village is needed because mamas let’s be real - it’s hard doing this alone. Whether it’s someone to vent to on those hard days, or have lunch with - or even leaning to a circle of mom friends to connect with can be helpful.
Don’t let anyone get on your nerves. This is something my father-in-law has always jokingly reiterated to me during my pregnancies and he couldn’t be more accurate. Keep your spirit uplifted! Our hormones are fluctuating pretty heavily during those 9 months of pregnancy and let’s be honest there are those moments of irritability, frustration, and rage, but try your best not to let anyone or anything get on your nerves!
Though being completely stress free may not be realistic, do your best to maintain a healthy and positive mindset. Our babies feel everything internally so if mom’s spirits aren’t high- our bodies and babies know! And no stress is worth baby being uncomfortable. So let things go, and remember this is your journey to make want you want.
Maintain a positive circle.
Try to reduce stress as much as possible and do things that make you happy.
Practice self care: get a prenatal massage or get a mani/pedi to unwind.
Embrace the journey! You were called for this 😉 Show yourself compassion and be gentle with yourself. And realistic. Set realistic goals and expectations during your pregnancy. Remember, it looks different for everyone so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. Bringing life into the world is a blessing and though it comes with its struggles, i personally found nothing more special than bonding with baby in those 9 months. Feeling the tiny kicks and having a live in companion to nurture and care for is incomparable. So embrace the good and the bad, take pictures, keep a journal, and embrace the journey!
🤍J. Leigh
