Nine Months

Each pregnancy is different from another. Some women breeze through pregnancy and some survive.
What makes this difference is the way they take care of themselves!

Go for your exams

If you are sexually active, and your periods are overdue by two to three weeks, get tested to confirm your pregnancy.

1. Every 4 weeks until the 28th week of pregnancy.
2. Every 2 weeks until 36 weeks.
3. Once a week until delivery.

Diet

Pregnancy is the time when you receive advice from family, friends, or even strangers. Eat for two is the oft-quoted refrain.
A pregnant woman should have extra 300 calories everyday.
Initially, in the first trimester you are too nauseous to eat. For many getting rid of nausea is a monumental task. It is during the next two trimesters that the foetus grows rapidly and so the nutritional needs of the foetus. In your diet plan incorporate lean meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads, low-fat dairy products. When pregnant, emphasise on the intake of calcium, protein, folic acid and iron. Take folic acid supplements.

Fluids

It is also important to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, during pregnancy. During pregnancy blood volume increases and hydrating with water can help prevent common troubles as dehydration and constipation.

Oral Health

During pregnancy regular dental check­ups are important. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that puts you at increased risk for periodontal disease and causes tender gums. When going for dental checkups tell the doctor that you are pregnant.

Exercise

Swimming, yoga, going for walks can help you stay In great shape during pregnancy. Get in touch with your gynaecologist before you embark on an exercise programme.

Sleep

Get your sleep when you can. Once the baby comes, you have to reschedule your sleep around baby's timings.
As your baby grows, it will be harder to find a comfortable position when you are trying to sleep. Lying on your side with your knees bent is likely to be the most comfortable position as your pregnancy progresses.
This position also makes your heart's job easier because it keeps the baby's weight from applying pressure to the large blood vessels that carry blood to and from your heart, feet and legs.

Medicines

Pregnancy is a time when you should say no to the casual popping in of analgesics, antacids.

1. Get your doctor's advice on which painkillers should you use.
2. Quit cigarettes, say no to second hand smoke, alcohol and drugs. The most insidious form of second hand smoke happens when unborn foetus inhales cigarette smoke as the mother lights up a puff. For your baby's health go the teetotaller way, when pregnant.
3. Alcohol produces more severe abnormalities in a developing foetus than heroin, cocaine or marijuana.

The Happiness Quotient

When pregnant try to stay happy. At the moment, you have time for yourself. Make the most of it.
Indulge in your hobbies or spend time pampering yourself. Once the little one comes, your hands will be full for some time.