So you’re expecting–congratulations! Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fifth, each pregnancy has its own set of factors and obstacles. Depending on your age, lifestyle, and overall health, there are many factors that contribute to a healthy pregnancy. Walnut Lake OBGYN & Wellness has compiled some lifestyle tips we’d love to see our patients incorporate.
In need of a compassionate and experienced obstetrician in West Bloomfield, MI? Schedule an appointment at Walnut Lake OBGYN & Wellness today!
Things You Should Do for a Healthy Pregnancy
1. Eat Healthy, Balanced Foods
It’s okay to give in to cravings, but eating healthy is essential. Think about it this way: whatever you consume during pregnancy, your baby is also consuming. A varied diet will ensure that you get all the nutrients your body needs to support your baby’s growth and development. Just listen to your body; it will tell you what it needs! Be sure to include an adequate amount of:
- Fruits & vegetables
- Protein
- Fiber
- Healthy fats
- Complex carbohydrates
2. Move Your Body
Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do during pregnancy. It improves mood and energy levels, reduces the risk of gestational diabetes, helps you sleep better, and even improves your immune system. And that’s not all! Regular exercise can also help make labor easier by strengthening muscles in the pelvic floor. Many exercise studios offer classes specifically for pregnant women–like prenatal yoga, pilates, and stretching.
3. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are essential for a healthy pregnancy, and should be taken daily. They help with the baby’s development, as well as your own. You should start taking them at the time you begin trying for a baby, or as soon as you know you are pregnant, and continue until you stop breastfeeding.
Prenatal vitamins contain a multitude of nutrients to support both your health and the health of your baby. Some of these include:
- Folic acid–helps prevent certain birth defects like spina bifida
- Iron–prevents anemia
- Calcium and vitamin D–promotes strong bones, teeth, and muscles
- Iodine–proper thyroid function
- Selenium–immune system support
- Zinc–cell growth and development
- Copper–red blood cell production
- & many more
Talk to your doctor about finding the right prenatal vitamin and additional supplements for your needs.
4. Reduce Your Stress
Stress can do an incredible amount of damage to your body, especially during pregnancy. Something you can do to reduce stress is to think of your pregnancy as a vacation! This is a unique and beautiful time in your life, so take advantage of it. Rest as much as possible, take time to do things that bring you joy, like reading, gardening, or painting, and be intentional with your time.
5. Things to Avoid:
There are some things that are an absolute no-go during pregnancy and some foods that are best to avoid. These things can put your body at risk and cause developmental harm to the baby. Always talk to your doctor before consuming anything you are unsure about.
- Alcohol
- Smoking or vaping of any kind
- Raw fish/sushi
- Deli meats
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Soft cheeses
- Raw eggs
- Caffeine
First-Time Mothers:
Being a first-time mother includes its own learning curve since this is all so new! Here are a few things you can do to ease yourself into the parenting lifestyle and support your mental and emotional health:
- Educate yourself on parenting–reading books, watching YouTube videos, and babysitting friends’ children can give you some real-world experience
- Create a birth plan during your pregnancy–brings peace of mind and prepares you for the big day
- Make friends who are pregnant–join pregnancy classes or support groups. Having an expanded support system with other women going through the same thing can be a huge boost to mental health!
Get in Touch with Walnut Lake OBGYN & Wellness
The best thing you can do for a healthy pregnancy is to choose an experienced obstetrician who is in tune with your needs. Regular visits allow us to monitor your baby’s development and keep track of any symptoms. Should complications arise, early detection is key.
By following our guide, you can take all the necessary steps toward a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby! Contact Walnut Lake OBGYN & Wellness in West Bloomfield, MI, to schedule your next appointment!