Tips for Mothers-To-Be. Caring for your baby begins well before your child is born. Here are some tips: Make time for eight hours of sleep each night and, if …
Tips for Mothers-To-Be
Caring for your baby begins well before your child is born In fact, proper prenatal care is one of the best ways you can get your baby off to a good start Here are some tips: Get regular medical care from the start - as soon as you think you may be pregnant Ask your health-care provider how often you should have prenatal checkups During pregnancy eat nutritious meals that provide the vitamins you need Take vitamin supplements only if theyre prescribed by your health care provider Moms- to-be need more protein and calories than usual Focus on eating the right foods Avoid empty calories, such as soda, pastries, and other sweets that add excess weight but little nutrition Eat smaller, more frequent meals Dont lie down after eating since a full stomach can cause discomfort and heartburn Drink plenty of fluids six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water, milk, or fruit juice each day This will help prevent dehydration and constipation Get plenty of rest and relaxation Make time for eight hours of sleep each night and, if possible, frequent breaks during the day with your feet up Get ALL medications approved by your baby doctor or nurse, even those available
over-thecounter Many common medications can harm your unborn child Avoid alcohol, smoking, and illegal drugs These can cause severe damage, including fetal alcohol syndrome, low birth weights, miscarriage, and physical and mental defects Avoid household or garden chemicals whose fumes may be harmful to your unborn baby Avoid x-rays Keep exercising A regular schedule of safe, aerobic exercise especially yoga or swimming/water exercise can improve the flow of oxygen to your baby, increase your strength and endurance, and decrease the risk of hemorrhoids and varicose veins Dont dive or jump feet-first into the pool Keep your body temperature cool That means avoiding hot baths, sunburn, and overexertion All of these can overheat you and your unborn baby Be on the alert for signs of trouble Call your doctors office immediately if you are experiencing any problems Dont be surprised if you are experiencing mild depression Even so, discuss any problems with your doctor or nurse, especially if worry or depression interferes with day-to-day life
Source:mspcc.org
