3 Ways to Make Your Pregnancy More Manageable (Part 1)
While pregnancy is a very special time for every woman it can often be a trying time with the discomfort that accompanies it. In fact, this incredible experience of developing human life is an enormous challenge for your body. Often, it is not easy to endure the occurring physical and hormonal changes. In our first blog post, we’d like to share a few tips on how to make your pregnancy more manageable and thus more enjoyable.
1. Mood Swings
You might notice that you’ve been more emotional and teary than before the pregnancy. Sometimes, no matter what you try, everything seems wrong, changes overwhelm, and you just can’t cope. Although it is normal to feel a wide range of emotions, there are things you can try to lessen your mood swings during this special time. Eat well, get plenty of sleep and exercise. Staying in good shape can help overcome some emotional side effects of the pregnancy. Take a break during the day and find time to do what gets you relaxed. Spend quality time with your partner and friends. Pregnancy is your special time and you should prioritize looking after yourself. This will certainly make your pregnancy more manageable.
2. Weight Gain
Although it’s normal for a woman to gain between 11 and 16kg during pregnancy, gaining too much weight can affect your health. It might seem difficult to maintain a balanced diet, especially with those weird cravings you’re experiencing! Luckily, there are a few things you can pay attention to in order to prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Choose snacks full of vitamins and low in calories and fat, eat whole grains and reduced-fat dairy products. Instead of chocolate choose sweets with natural sugar. Prepare meals using low-fat cooking methods and avoid fried-food and fast-food. You will thank yourself later on, as a balanced diet during your pregnancy will make it much easier for you to lose weight after the baby is born.
3. Fatigue
Another common symptom you might experience during pregnancy is fatigue. You might have noticed that you’re constantly tired and wonder why that is. It’s normal that you need that extra rest when you’re body is working hard to provide everything your growing baby needs. Increased level of progesterone in your body is also responsible for that sleepiness you’re feeling. It’s important you rest for as long as you need but there’s a couple of things you can do that will help you cope. Try going to bed earlier, take a short nap or two during a day and try some moderate stretching exercises. Unless your doctor advises you otherwise, incorporating moderate exercise into your daily routine is beneficial for your health, will make you feel more energised and your pregnancy more manageable.
Every woman and every pregnancy is unique and different. What works for one person may or may not work for the other. It’s always worth trying and sharing your experience with other expecting women. Be confident to try new things that may help you, listen to your body and do what works best for you! And most importantly, focus on the bright side – each day you’re closer to meeting your beautiful baby!
Looking for support?
If you find it difficult to cope with your pregnancy, either emotionally or financially. If you feel that you’re on your own, Gianna Care offers a range of free services to help you in this difficult time. We have helped an extensive number of women, who have come to us not knowing where to go. If you just want to talk, we’re here to listen. You can ring our free 24/7 hour helpline, talk to us through LiveChat or contact us through our website by clicking here.
