Once you discover you’re going to be a mom, it can be exciting to realize you’ll soon be welcoming a baby into the world. After you share the news with your family members and friends, you’ll need to start giving attention to your health to promote the development of your little one. Knowing the right steps to take can get your pregnancy off on the right start.

 

Find a Healthcare Provider

 

One of the most important factors that determine the level of prenatal care you receive through your pregnancy is the healthcare provider you choose. You’ll be seeing your OBGYN on a monthly basis before you start to have weekly appointments in your third trimester. 

 

It’s important to review the healthcare provider’s level of experience and qualifications. You may also want to find someone within a few miles of your home, considering how often you’ll be visiting their office in the coming months. They should be capable of delivering your baby at the hospital you prefer.

 

After making your first prenatal visit and taking a pregnancy test to confirm you’re pregnant, the OBGYN will determine your due date based on your last menstrual cycle. You can also provide your health history to ensure any conditions are addressed during the pregnancy. Additional information to provide includes any prior miscarriages, if you’ve had fertility treatments, and any medications you’re currently taking.

 

Drop Your Bad Habits

 

From smoking to drinking alcohol each night, there are many bad habits you may have developed that will not be safe to continue during your pregnancy. It’s important to avoid waiting another day to drop your bad habits to ensure you can protect the health of your baby. You can also improve your diet and incorporate more nutrient-rich foods. Choosing clean foods to eat that are natural and wholesome will allow your baby to obtain more vitamins in each stage of its development. Reducing your intake of sugar and fat can improve the development and health of both you and your child while also making it easier to manage your weight. Failing to drop your bad habits can lead to congenital disabilities and put your child at risk of complications and health issues.

 

Reducing the amount of caffeine you consume is also recommended by most healthcare professionals because it can increase the risk of miscarriages and also lead to low birth weight. You can safely consume 200 milligrams each day, which is equivalent to two cups of coffee. Keep in mind caffeine often hides in other types of foods and beverages besides coffee. It’s present in green tea, chocolate, energy drinks, and soda.

 

Increase Your Folic Acid

 

Folic acid is one of the most important vitamins you can take when you’re expecting because it reduces the risk of brain and spinal cord conditions. Your OBGYN will recommend taking 400 mg each day if you plan to take a supplement. Your doctor may prescribe you the vitamins if you’re anemic or have low iron levels.

 

Boosting your vitamin D intake will also promote proper growth and development of your baby in each trimester. Avoid any type of prenatal vitamins with a high amount of vitamin A because it can lead to liver damage and cause congenital birth abnormalities.

 

Stay Active

 

Many women fear exercise during their pregnancy because they’re afraid of disturbing their baby in the womb. Physical activity is recommended if it’s performed safely during the right types of activities. Choose low-impact options like walking or swimming. 

 

If you participate in workout classes, inform the instructor you’re pregnant to ensure you can move at a slower pace and protect your health.

 

Get Off Your Feet

 

Although you’ll need to incorporate exercise into your routine, it’s also just as important to relax. With the different hormonal changes that occur with each pregnancy, it can be easy to suffer from fatigue, nausea, and mood changes. Give yourself permission to rest and recharge to ensure your body doesn’t experience too much physical strain. It is totally ok to sit back on the couch and watch some streaming tv. Too much physical activity in the second and third trimesters can trigger contractions and increase the risk of premature delivery.

 

Stay Hydrated

 

Instead of reaching for sugary drinks, boost your hydration by drinking more water. Aim for drinking up to one gallon of water each day, which can replenish your body when you’re dealing with morning sickness. Avoiding strenuous activities will also prevent your body from becoming dehydrated.

 

Many women struggle to drink enough water when they suffer from indigestion. If this is the case, attempt to drink it in between your meals.