Precautions During Pregnancy: Do’s and Don’ts

For millennia now, women have been getting pregnant and giving birth to healthy babies. And yet, once the news gets out that there’s a bun in the oven, you’re treated like a flower and loved by everyone around you. There is no stopping the maid or the grandmother next door from imparting some kind, but unsolicited advice about how you must take care of yourself while you’re pregnant.

Today, our world is seeing women push the boundaries of what is possible while pregnant. Serena Williams won the Australian Open in the year 2017 while being 8 weeks pregnant (in the so-called most sensitive 1st-trimester pregnancy). Long-distance runner Alysa Montano, ran the 800m at the US Track and Field Championships while 34 weeks pregnant, and even here in India, more and more women are spending those exalted 9 months in the gym, working in offices, and doing household chores.

While we aren’t advocating breaking world athletic women’s records while pregnant, what we are highlighting is the strength and resilience of the pregnant body. Being pregnant does not have to disrupt normal life for a normal, healthy woman. The key to a healthy pregnancy is the same as in normal life – eat clean, exercise, hydrate, and rest. And take care of pregnancy precautions followed by Do’s and Don’t.

The pregnant body of a woman goes through many changes in 9 months, and while being physically fit is an important contributor to a healthy pregnancy, it’s just as important to be mentally and emotionally healthy as well.

What to avoid during Pregnancy

Throughout your pregnancy, you must avoid smoking or smoke-infested places, alcohol, and if you eat meat, make sure it’s properly cleaned and cooked. Only pasteurized dairy products are advised during pregnancy. Avoid soft cheeses and deli meats as there’s a risk of salmonella poisoning. If you love your coffee, might be wise to cut it down to 2 cups a day! These are a few pregnancy precautions-

• Avoid smoking or smoke infested places during pregnancy
• Avoid alcohol during pregnancy
• Avoid Undercooked or Raw Fish or Meat
• Avoid soft cheeses and deli meats
• Avoid coffee more than 2 cups a day.
• Avoid walking and standing for long hours at a stretch
• Special note to pet-mummies: Avoid handling pet litter, if possible.

Also read: 7 Prenatal Yoga Poses for Pregnant Women

Do’s and Don’ts

1st Trimester Precautions during Pregnancy

This is easily the most challenging phase of pregnancy. You’ll gain weight, feel tired or sluggish, and will potentially experience morning sickness. Give your body and yourself plenty of time to rest and relax during 1st trimester of pregnancy and follow all the precautions in the first trimester.

Speak to your trainer or doctor about changing your exercise routine to suit your current body state. Avoid exercises that put any pressure on the abdominal area.

Eat a balanced diet during your pregnancy period. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Avoid unripe papaya. Sweet, ripe papaya is absolutely safe during pregnancy. Take folic acid and vitamin supplements if required, for your child’s healthy development, and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.

It’s really important to speak to your partner about what you’re feeling, physically and emotionally. Make him part of the process so he can appreciate and understand what you’re going through. It’s normal to go through mood swings at this time, and it’s important to let your partner be aware of this.

Also Read: The fallacy of “choice”

2nd Trimester Precautions during Pregnancy

You’re now in cruise control with 2nd-trimester pregnancy. Hopefully, the worst part is behind you. Your 2nd trimester should see you have more energy, and feeling a bit more comfortable in your new, bloated body.

Ensure your diet is rich in iron, and you’re getting plenty of Vitamin C.

Enrol in a Lamaze class. These classes are specially designed for mummies to be, to take them through the delivery process and what to expect. It’s also an opportunity to bond with other mums to be, and prepare a little playgroup for your impending arrival! It’s always great to share the excitement of being a mom with others experiencing the same thing.
Exercise, eat clean, and rest!

3rd Trimester Precautions during Pregnancy

Third Trimester of pregnancy, The final stretch! It is crucial to avoid stressful situations, as extreme stress could trigger your water to break. If you’re planning to travel, it is now safe to do so. Make sure you have the room to stretch your legs to avoid cramps.

Sleep is going to be hard thanks to the bigger body. Try and sleep on your side. Get foot massages, and pamper yourself before the little bundle changes your life forever!

Best of luck!

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