Feeling Good During Pregnancy: Tips For Proper Self Care

Pregnancy is an exciting time. As you prepare and anxiously look forward to the arrival of your newest family member, remember that it is very important to attend closely to your needs and the signals your body is giving you. After all, your health directly impacts the health of your baby. To feel your best, follow the tips included below.

Don't skip meals. In fact, you should eat more than usual -- about 300 calories per day, in fact. Your baby needs a lot of nutrients to grow, and they will get those nutrients from you. To ensure that your body is in good condition, focus on getting five meals per day. You don't want to overeat, but you do want to eat small meals consistently so your body has the energy it needs to function and support the baby.

Take a prenatal vitamin. Most doctors actually recommend beginning this vitamin even before you get pregnant; it will help prepare your body for the baby and support healthy development for your little one. There are over-the-counter vitamins as well as those that need a prescription; speak to your doctor to determine what is best for you.

Drink water often. Supporting a baby is hard work, and it is important to make sure that you remain hydrated at all times. It is hard for a lot of women to remember to drink as much as they need to (around 8 glasses of water a day), so invest in a quality water bottle to carry around with you. Fill it up in the mornings, and make a concerted effort to drink from it at different points of the day. As you increase your water intake, decrease the amount of other beverages you drink (like coffee and soda).

Avoid smoke. The negative effects of secondhand smoke are widely known, and while pregnant, that smoke you breathe in affects both you and your fragile baby. Stay away from places where you know others are smoking. If your partner smokes, make sure they do it outside and away from you. And, if you smoke -- stop. While it may not be easy, it is the single most important thing you can do for your baby.

Opt for comfortable shoes. This does not mean that they have to be unattractive, but in general, you want to avoid heels or anything that is tight and restricting. Make a point to elevate your feet several times during your day as well. This will help you feel more energized and will cut down on the amount of swelling you experience in your lower extremities. If you do all of these things and you still see a significant amount of swelling, speak with your doctor about the situation.

Pregnancy is a very emotional time. As a mother, you want to do what is best for your baby, even if you do not always know what that is. The tips included above will help you get your pregnancy off to a great start.