6 Tips for Surviving the First Trimester of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an amazing event, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t uncomfortable or even awful for some women. The first trimester is typically the worst for most pregnant women, and early pregnancy can result in everything from regular vomiting to extreme fatigue and feeling unwell. Use the following tips to ensure that the first trimester goes as well as possible: Getting as much rest as possible during the first trimester is key to a woman feeling well; growing a baby requires way more energy than anyone realizes, and expectant mothers, especially first time mothers, should take as much times as possible to rest, relax, and nap when possible. Pre-natal vitamins are essential for the good health of a growing fetus, but they can be hard on an expectant mother’s stomach during the first trimester when she may feel nauseous. During the early weeks of pregnancy, it is a good idea for a woman to take pre-natal vitamins with food to help reduce the chances of stomach distress. It is not uncommon for women to have a hard time eating during the first trimester. Between morning sickness and a heightened sense of smell, many types of food may not be appealing. A balanced diet is important during pregnancy, so both the mother and the baby receives the proper nutrients; during the first trimester bland food that it also nutritional typically work best. Whole grain bread, bananas, peanut butter, whole grain crackers, and yogurt are food items that many pregnant women can consume and keep down during the first trimester. Some women have more severe cases of morning sickness which can leave her feeling nauseous or vomiting for the majority of the day. Ginger is known for helping with these issues, and some women find relief through consuming real ginger ale or eating ginger candy. It is also recommended that pregnant women try to eat something small, such as a few crackers, upon waking and before getting out of bed to help settle the stomach. In extreme cases of morning sickness a doctor may prescribe antiemetic medication to curb vomiting and prevent dehydration. The first trimester of pregnancy includes large fluctuations in hormones, which can lead to mood swings for many women. There is not much that can be done about this, but expectant women who know what to expect can better deal with the emotional changes that accompany hormone fluctuations. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and reducing stress can sometimes help alleviate some pregnancy related mood swings. While many women do not feel their best during the first trimester, it is a good idea to start or continue an exercise routine to promote good health. Before going to the gym or starting any type of new exercise routine, pregnant women should consult their doctor to ensure that they are exercising safely during pregnancy. Please visit www.healthstoriesforkids.com to learn more about a variety of health topics.