Expecting a baby comes with a lot of excitement and joy. Every parent looks forward to the day when they can hold their newborn in their arms. Along the way, it’s important to take steps toward making this journey as safe and healthy as possible. The following 11 tips for a healthy pregnancy should get you off to a great start.
Be mindful of your mental health
Enjoy the sunshine
While your prenatal vitamins will include a portion of the daily recommended allotment of Vitamin D, it’s a good idea to spend at least 15 minutes each day outside. Taking in the sun’s rays can bolster your levels when proteins in your skin absorb UV B radiation, which it then converts to Vitamin D3. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphate which are integral to the development of your baby’s teeth, bones, organs, and nervous system.
See your dentist
Maintaining dental health during your pregnancy is an important part of your overall health. But if you’ve ever chipped a tooth or felt a cavity coming on, you’ve likely asked yourself, “Can I go to the dentist while pregnant?”
“Be assured that the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral conditions including x-rays are safe during pregnancy, and should a procedure be needed while pregnant, local anesthesia is also safe,” Dr. Emily Skibinski explained in a video for her Wisconsin-based Dental Associates practice.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology has stated that because only the birthing parent’s mouth is exposed to radiation during an x-ray, dental x-rays do not produce enough radiation to harm a fetus or embryo.
“We recommend that women receive care regardless of the stage of pregnancy and the second trimester is typically the best time for procedures to be completed.”
Choose the best pregnancy exercise for your needs
Maintaining a regular exercise routine is key to a healthy pregnancy, although it is important to create a workout that helps rather than hinders your pregnancy. Yoga is a great way to stay fit while expecting.
“During my first pregnancy, I struggled with lower back pain in my third trimester. I learned that I had a very weak core.” Lynn F. told Mom.com. “So, during my next two pregnancies, I began practicing yoga and noticed a significant difference in how I moved and felt in the third trimester compared to the first time around.”
Get up-to-date on your vaccinations
It’s important that your vaccinations are current, including those for chickenpox, rubella, measles, and even the flu. Similarly, ensuring you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is imperative to the health of both yourself and your baby.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that those who are pregnant can face an increased risk of complications should they develop COVID-19. The COVID-19 vaccination is safe and effective. Getting vaccinated and boosted not only protects your health but that of your baby as well.
Beware of medicines
Typically, most over-the-counter medications like antihistamines for allergies, Tylenol for colds and flu, topical creams for rashes and skin irritation, and medication for constipation or diarrhea are well-tolerated during pregnancy.
No medication is 100% safe during pregnancy, however. Everything you ingest goes into your bloodstream and can pass to the placenta which is why it’s important to talk with your doctor about any medications or supplements you may be taking if you’re trying to conceive or if you suspect you may be pregnant.
Also keep in mind that “natural” remedies carry their own risks; make sure to check with your doctor before starting on any herbal supplements, teas, or essential oils if you’re pregnant. Also, check with your pediatrician before using any aromatherapy oils around children.
Pass on cat care
Exposure to cat feces can cause toxoplasmosis — a disease transmitted through dirt, cat feces or undercooked meat — which is dangerous for unborn babies.
If you have a cat, consider getting someone else in the family to change the litter box. Or, purchase an automated cat litter box to minimize exposure. It’s important to also keep cats off of tables and counters to eliminate the ris of cross-contamination from the cats’ paws to the cooking surface. Cleaning with anti-bacterial surface sprays or those with added bleach can help mitigate this risk if you have a cat that won’t stop jumping on top of everything.
