During your pregnancy, you'll probably get advice from everyone, warranted or not.
There are 250 babies born every single minute around the world, each a result of nine months dedicated to taking care of your pregnant body and developing a healthy baby. If the pressure of having a child wasn't enough, you also have to deal with all of the unwarranted advice and opinions from well-intended people. Instead of attempting to listen to every tip you'll receive throughout these nine months, focus on the facts.
If you're looking for tips on a healthy and comfortable pregnancy that's based on research and facts, keep reading to learn more.
Leg Cramps
Leg cramps during pregnancy are very common. These involuntary muscle contractions occur frequently during the second and third trimesters.
But instead of reaching for muscle relaxers or other over-the-counter medications, there are a few natural remedies you can try.
First, start by stretching your calf muscles at regular intervals throughout the day. If you still feel cramps, try a pair of compression socks or a compression calf sleeve. These products will help increase blood flow and promote circulation throughout your legs.
Morning Sickness and Nausea
If you're wondering how to have a comfortable pregnancy, morning sickness or nausea may come to mind.
Up to 90% of pregnant women deal with morning sickness, making it one of the more common pregnancy concerns. And the worst part of it is that this extreme nausea can strike at any time of the day during any term of pregnancy - not just in the morning.
Tonic water is a great natural remedy for morning sickness. Not only does it help calm an upset stomach, but it can also relieve cramping. Ginger is another great natural remedy for morning sickness and nausea.
Prenatal Nutrition
A surefire way to stay healthy during pregnancy is by getting the proper prenatal nutrition. This will also help to ensure your growing baby is getting all the necessary nutrition needed for healthy development and reduces their risk of many birth defects .
You'll want to take a specialized prenatal supplement every day. These will contain all the vitamins and minerals to promote healthy development for baby and a more comfortable pregnancy for you.
In addition, experts recommend that pregnant women also take a folic acid supplement and suggest getting at least 400 mcg (.4mg) of Folic acid daily during pregnancy. This has been shown to help prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
Outside of taking a prenatal and folic acid, eating a well balanced diet can make a huge difference for a healthy and comfortable pregnancy.
In fact, eating a balanced diet and getting the recommended amount of prenatal nutrition has been linked to:
- Good fetal brain development
- A healthy birth weight
- Reduced risk of many birth defects
- Reduces your risk of anemia, fatigue, and morning sickness
- Can help balance mood swings
- Some evidence even suggests it may improve labor and delivery
Stretch Marks Prevention
To stay healthy during pregnancy, you’ll need to protect and nourish your skin. One of the many ways you can do this is by keeping your skin hydrated in order to help prevent stretch marks.
There's no better remedy for stretch marks than Cocoa Butter. It works by keeping your skin moisturized and improves your skin's elasticity. If you don't have any cocoa butter handy, even using a high-quality moisturizing lotion can help.
Your post-pregnancy body will thank you!
Pregnant Belly Support
Back and body pain are one of the most common problems associated with pregnancy. Providing proper support to your pregnant belly can reduce these pains, helping to improve your comfort and health during pregnancy.
Once you start carrying more weight as your little one is growing and developing, your belly can become heavy and uncomfortable. At the end of the day, your back and whole body will be sore — but it doesn't have to be that way.
A maternity support belt is a great way to reduce your body pain and help support your belly. Your muscles will be less strained, you’ll have less stress on your back, and both mother and baby will be more comfortable.
Sleep and Relaxation Meditation
During pregnancy, it is ideal to keep stress to a minimum. However, sometimes, this is easier said than done. Meditation is a quick and simple way to help you reduce stress and sleep better at night even while pregnant.
Using a guided meditation might be exactly what you’re looking for. Apps like Positive Pregnancy, available on Google Play and Apple, are audio meditations that guide expectant mothers into a deep relaxation to focus on a positive and successful pregnancy. The relaxation techniques, visualizations and positive affirmations help you have a more comfortable, natural and enjoyable pregnancy.
Low Energy
The last important aspect of your health and comfort during pregnancy that is covered in this article is: Low Energy. Throughout your pregnancy, you'll find yourself feeling tired but also suffering from sleeplessness.
Yarrow is an herb and has been shown to be a natural way to promote healthy sleep habits. This flower is often used in sleepy time teas and other night time tincture recipes. Make sure to read the ingredient list and check with your doctor to ensure a product you purchase is healthy for your baby. Alternatively, you can purchase the herb and brew your own tea. It may take some more work but it will ensure that you know exactly what you are consuming.
Talk to your doctor to see if they can suggest a sleep support supplement for a good night's rest.
Need More Tips for a Healthy & Comfortable Pregnancy?
These are just a few of the tips for a healthy and comfortable pregnancy that you can find through trusted online resources like ours.
Throughout your pregnancy, you'll hear a lot of unwarranted advice and help. But, like many things you should do your due diligence and properly research the effects of the suggested treatment. Only follow the advice you feel 100% comfortable with and remember that it's your body, your baby, and your choice.
Visit the Mom and Family section of this site for all the supplies you'll need to keep your new bundle of joy happy and healthy.