The moment your test turns positive, the emotions begin, ranging from joy to anxiety, excitement to nervousness. Who will this little one be? What changes will my body go through as this little one grows inside me? Will my experience be the same as my sister’s, my mother’s, my friends’? This is then followed by the confusion from all the advice and stories received, both beautiful and those less than beautiful. Everyone is different and every story is different. Here are some tips from Elizabeth Pehl, MD, a women’s health specialist at MercyOne Clinton North Health Plaza.
Hydration is key
Hydration is key during pregnancy as your blood volume expands to aid in the blood flow to and from the placenta which feeds your little one with all the nutrients it needs to grow. It will also help with some of the first trimester symptoms, morning sickness, fatigue, etc.
Maintain a healthy diet
Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is key to help make sure your body has what it needs to grow a little human. Food choices can also help with the first trimester symptoms. Eating multiple small balanced meals a day can help with morning sickness as well as meals with good quality protein no matter which dietary lifestyle you follow.
Take your prenatal vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are most important in the first trimester as this is when many of your baby’s structures are being created. Reach out to your provider if you need help with access to a prenatal vitamin.
Get active
The American College of Obstetrician and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends 150 minutes of active exercise spread throughout the week during pregnancy. Being active during pregnancy reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure as well as gestational (pregnancy related) diabetes. There are many other benefits to being active for both you and your baby. If you were previously active, typically you can continue your activities as your body tolerates but try to avoid high risk activities, especially those where there could be contact with your belly. If you weren’t active during pregnancy this is a wonderful start, so be sure to start slow and listen to your body as you become active.
Vaccinations
Expecting mothers should get their tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis shot when they get to about 28 weeks. This is to provide your baby with protection against pertussis, also known as whooping cough. We also recommend the influenza and COVID-19 vaccination. Please discuss these with your provider.
Create a birthing plan
It is a good idea to create a birthing plan. Discuss your wants and desires with your provider. Make a playlist for your labor, this allows you to set the mood for your baby’s birth. The key to a successful birth plan is flexibility. We will always try to complete your plan the way you envisioned it, however there are certain circumstances that do arise. Your provider should explain to you what is going on and discuss the plan.
Take care of your behavioral health
You can’t pour from an empty cup. During pregnancy and even after, your hormones are in flux; this can affect how you are able to cope. You are not alone. Please reach out to your provider for ways to help.
New mothers and postpartum depression
Being a mom is wonderful but at times can be quite difficult. Know that you are the best person to be the mother to your little one. Remember that as physicians, we are here to help you and assist you in the best way that we can. At the end of the day our goal is for a happy healthy mom and baby.
