Being pregnant can be a dream come true, but it doesn’t always mean that pregnancy is easy.
This is a collaborative post.
The experience isn’t necessarily how people imagine it, or how it is portrayed in the TV or films. Many people have to deal with morning sickness, lack of sleep, swollen ankles, and more, which is why it is vital to ensure you are looking after yourself, no matter how hard it gets. There’s a whole load of things nobody tells you about pregnancy. And if you happen to be pregnant with twins, it’s a whole different ball game to being pregnant with just one – trust me I’ve done both!
There are many other things that you may discover about being a parent that you will wish you’d have known before, but one of the essential things is to ensure you are caring for yourself. Here are some self-care ideas to help you while you are pregnant:
Walk outdoors during pregnancy
As your pregnancy progresses, it can be more challenging to stay active, but you should try and do what you can to stay active. Walks outdoors are a perfect option. They are low impact and can be as long or as short as you want them to be, and going for a walk in nature can help to calm and relax you. It can be nice to breathe in some fresh air and forget about any worries on your mind while you take in the scenery around you. If you do find yourself in pain from carrying around all the extra weight of your baby, don’t suffer in silence. You can take some natural anti inflammatory for pregnancy pain relief which is one of many natural pain relief products that are safe to take when you are expecting.
Try to relax during your pregnancy
Pregnancy can be exhausting, so don’t feel like you need to be doing things or preparing all the time. Taking time to relax is also important. Take the time to do some activities that you enjoy, such as painting or reading. It is also an excellent opportunity to get in some quality time with your partner before your baby arrives, by watching a film or doing something that you both enjoy.
There should be no guilt in taking the time to relax and recharge, as it is something that everyone needs from time to time. You are doing what’s best for both you and your baby, so listen to your body and do what it needs.
Get the right vitamins and minerals in your diet
When you are pregnant, it is more important than usual to ensure that you are getting the best balance of nutrients in your diet. Aim to add more fruits and vegetables into your diet and to be healthier where you can, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
There are some nutrients that you need more of during pregnancy, such as iron, that can be supplemented into your diet. An iron supplement in pregnancy or any other pregnancy vitamin that you need is an excellent way to ensure that you and your baby are getting everything that you need. According to this dentist in Stockton, pregnant women need to make sure that they get the right amount of iron as they are more susceptible to gum diseases.
Ask for help
You may want to try and carry on as usual during your pregnancy, and that is fine, but you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help or accept help when you need it. Don’t tire yourself out too much when there are people around you willing to pitch in and help look after you. You will need the help once your baby arrives, so it is good to get used to it now.
How did I do?
Did you enjoy this post? Why not read a few of my others about pregnancy. Although don’t let them scare you if this is your first child (or first two!) Try Totally Outnumbered about the 20 week scan, or 10 things never to say to a woman expecting twins. Then if you want to know more, try Why giving birth to twins was easier than having one baby.
If you like a bit of social media madness, pop over to my Facebook page where you’ll be able to have a laugh at what ridiculousness goes on in my house with three very small boys on a daily basis. Warning – there is often sarcasm, and usually swearing. There are also great travel reviews and some AWESOME giveaways. Feel free to join my Twins, Tantrums and Cold Coffee – Shits and Giggles Parenting Group too, where everyone shares their hilarious stories.
And if you want to work with me, feel free to give me a shout here or at helen@twinstantrumsandcoldcoffee.com and I’ll get back to you.