Pregnancy Care: Top Tips To Keep You Fighting Fit
Pregnancy is a hugely exciting experience, but it’s also physically and emotionally draining. When you’re expecting, it’s essential to take good care of yourself and your baby. Here are some top tips to keep you fighting fit.
Rest and relaxation
Pregnancy takes it toll on your energy levels, and you may find even the simplest tasks more demanding than usual. When you’re pregnant, it’s important to listen to your body, and take time to relax and rest. Avoid doing anything too strenuous, especially in the third trimester, and make sure you get to bed at a reasonable time. If you’re struggling to get comfortable as you get bigger, pregnancy pillows are an excellent investment. Stress can have a profound impact on both you and your baby, so try and avoid situations you find difficult and free up some time in your schedule. You don’t want to be running around like a headless chicken when you’re heavily pregnant. Take time out to go to a yoga class or book a massage.
Dental care
Taking good care of your teeth and gums may not seem like an obvious requirement of pregnancy, but good oral hygiene is essential for pregnant women. We should all pay attention to dental health, but it’s particularly important to devote time to cleaning when you’re expecting. Research suggests that poor dental health can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and complications during birth. The hormonal changes that take place in the body during pregnancy can elevate the risk of gum disease, so look out for warning signs like swollen, sore, and bleeding gums. If you haven’t been to the dentist since you found out you were pregnant, book an appointment for a check-up now. Experts like the dentists at Solana Family Dental can also give you tips to help reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities.
Boosting immunity
When you’re pregnant, even minor ailments can knock you for six. It’s not always possible to prevent illness, but there are steps you can take. Make an effort to eat a healthy, balanced diet, and try and remain as active as possible. If you’re not sure which kinds of exercise are suitable, ask your doctor or consult a personal trainer. Gentle exercises, such as swimming or pregnancy yoga may be beneficial for those in the latter stages. Wrap up warm if you’re going out, and wash your hands on a regular basis. Try and avoid seeing people who have coughs and colds or illnesses like norovirus. Ask your doctor about immunizations. Sometimes, pregnant women are advised to have injections to protect them against common illnesses, especially in the winter months.
If you’re expecting, you’re probably counting down the days until you hold your bundle of joy in your arms. In the meantime, it’s important to do everything you can to look after yourself and your baby. Hopefully, these tips will help you steer clear of illness and ensure you’re fighting fit in the run-up to meeting your new arrival.
