Giving birth is one of the most beautiful miracles on earth. Not only is the process exciting, but it is also immensely challenging and exhilarating. From the first pregnancy test to the day you give birth to your baby, the journey is full of highs and lows.

Giving birth is one of the most beautiful miracles on earth. Not only is the process exciting, but it is also immensely challenging and exhilarating. From the first pregnancy test to the day you give birth to your baby, the journey is full of highs and lows.

8 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

1. Get Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is essential as it reduces pregnancy complications and preterm birth. Prenatal care also helps to identify if you are suffering from potential health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes, as they can cause problems later during the delivery. It is important that you keep track of vitals such as blood pressure, weight, the baby’s growth and development, etc.  This can all be done through prenatal care and regular visits to an obstetrician during pregnancy.

2. Evaluate Your Food Habits

Pregnancy is physically demanding, and to meet your body’s needs, it is a good idea to evaluate your diet to stay as healthy as possible. It is a time when your requirements for nutrients will change, and to match that, you will have to eat plenty of fruits, lean protein, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, etc.

While it can be challenging to avoid giving in to cravings, try avoiding junk food and sugary meals or drinks and go for healthier options if you experience sudden hunger pangs.

3. Stay Hydrated

Water is one of the significant components that our body needs to function properly, and it becomes extra vital when you are pregnant and supporting another life inside you. Make a habit of drinking at least 80 to 100 ounces of water every day and increase your intake if you are sweating from exercise or hot weather.

To make things exciting, add flavor to your water by adding a slice of lemon or other fruits you like. You can also consume fruits with high water content, like watermelon or cucumbers.

4. Start Exercising Regularly

Staying active is a great way to ensure your overall health remains in good condition throughout pregnancy. Regular workouts can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia and shortens the time in labor.

We already know exercise can improve our mood by releasing endorphins and reducing uninvited stress, so starting light workouts during your pregnancy is an excellent idea. However, be mindful of what exercises are best for pregnant bodies; if you’re uncertain what exercises you could do, asking your obstetrician or midwife for suggestions is always a good place to start.

5. Keep Track of Your Medications

You never know what might adversely affect you or your child, so it is best to keep track of all your medications beforehand. Try to maintain a list of your pills or tablets and track their doses.

Consult your healthcare provider before adding or subtracting a medication from your life. They will let you know about the side effects or any problems you might face and guide you through the entire process.

6. Avoid Drinking Alcohol

We know it is hard to let go of the things you like, but avoiding drinking alcohol is necessary for the welfare of you and your baby.

If you cannot stop yourself from drinking, get the professional help of a therapist or someone specializing in addiction treatment.

7. Quit Smoking

Like drinking, smoking is another bad habit that can leave lasting effects on you and your unborn child. It comes with a plethora of risks for the baby, like causing premature birth or sudden infant death syndrome, so it is best to try and stop as soon as possible. Any reduction of smoking is helpful, so even if quitting isn’t working, know that by cutting back in any way, you are benefiting the baby.

8. Seek Doctors When the Time is Right

Pregnancy is a process of constant transition, and it is a lot for a mother to handle on her own. Sometimes, situations might become too complicated to manage, even after carefully following every step to stay healthy. Thus, it is highly recommended to get the help of professionals who can turn your pregnancy into a more effortless experience.

Pregnancy is not an easy road to travel, but we at Northwest Women’s Clinic will make sure your journey remains as smooth as possible. Our mission is to take care of all the stages women go through and help them achieve a healthy life. Contact us to book an appointment today!