Pregnancy should be a special time of joy and anticipation. For some women, however, pregnancy may bring difficulties such as complications, extra weight or other physical limitations. The following tips can help women in difficult pregnancies cope a little easier.
Be positive
Despite pregnancy-related concerns, mothers-to-be should try to celebrate the opportunity of bringing new life into the world. Enjoy each stage of the baby's development. Share expectant joy with family members and friends in planning for the new arrival. Shop for baby items and look forward to the baby showers to come. Surround yourself with people who can encourage and uplift you when you aren't feeling as well.
Follow the doctor's orders
It is especially important to see the doctor on a regular basis, and to follow through on required testing and treatments. Woman who have other health concerns may need to have more frequent visits with their doctor, says Dr. Gilbert W. Webb at Mercy.net. It’s is important to comply with the appointment schedule. Take a list of questions to ask at every visit.
Accept family support
Let loved ones help with household tasks, errands and childcare for other children. Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. Politely decline requests or invitations that you do not feel up to accepting, and know your limits. This is a time to put yourself and the unborn baby first. You might be surprised at how much help you can get from close friends and family if you just ask.
Get plenty of rest
In addition to a regular night's sleep of seven-and-a-half to eight hours, try to take a daily nap or two, to feel fully rested. Naps help a person to de-stress and relax by escaping the cares of a busy day. Rest is good for both body and mind, especially during pregnancy.
Eat a balanced diet
Good food keeps the body healthy and reduce the effect of stress due to pregnancy difficulties. The doctor can recommend a specific daily calorie plan balancing the five food groups that will best suit a particular woman's needs, especially if she is having a difficult pregnancy. It is important not to overeat or under-eat during this time.
Get moving
Doctor-approved exercise can make a person feel better in many ways. Walking or swimming are often great exercises for pregnant women, along with others. Engaging the body in regular movement keeps it limber and helps to release endorphins, which soothe the mind of anxieties.
Pregnancy is a special phase of life that deserves appreciation and careful attention, especially when difficult. Following steps like those above can help pregnant women enjoy their mom-to-be status while dealing with challenges or struggles along the way.
Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO and often writes about family, health, home and lifestyle. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family when she isn't writing.