New Chapter : 5 Things you need to know for your pregnancy

Congratulations if you’ve witnessed those 2 lines. It’s a feeling that no word in Oxford can ever describe. I still remember my ecstasy, when I heard my baby’s first heartbeat at around 9 weeks of gestational age. My life took a complete U-turn, as I worked out a lot for myself to give birth to a healthy happy baby. 9 months isn’t a small time frame and just like our life, this path also has its own share of hiccups. This post is to help First-time moms (to-be-moms), to prepare yourself and gear up to enjoy your pregnancy.

Things you need to know when you’re pregnant :

1. Healthcare Provider and Vaccinations

Well, if you already have your best gynecologist by your side, you’re set for your pregnancy. If not, you need to start your work, by finalizing your gynecologist for the next 9 months. Discuss and take referrals from your friends and relatives, as you’ll have to visit your doctor nearly every month for checkups and baby monitoring. Further, once you’re done with it, your gynecologist will let you know about the vaccinations you’ll need to take. During pregnancy some parts of the immune system are suppressed, so few infections can really impact the developing fetus. Hence, opt for all vaccinations your gynecologist prescribes without failing.

While choosing the hospital, you should accommodate factors like doctor’s expertise, hygiene, approximate distance from your home, preference for normal delivery and so on.

2. Exercising & Healthy snacks :

If you’ve been really active before pregnancy, slow down a little bit. You should consult a gynecologist as to which all exercises you can do in your pregnancy. You should be extra cautious during the first trimester. Various Exercises helps you in different stages of pregnancy; few strengthen your pelvic muscles, while few enhance your flexibility. Ensure the right workout routine. Walking should be a part of your daily regime.

Food and health are very much related in Pregnancy too. If you’re a working woman, keep healthy snack boxes always in your bag. I used to carry mixed Nuts, energy bars, fruits, cheese, and yogurt for small snack breaks. Avoid Tea, caffeine, alcohol as much as you can. Add fresh fruit juices and curd to your daily diet as well. Drink lots of water to keep yourself well hydrated throughout the day.

3. HR policy / Maternity coverage:

If you’re a working woman, right after you’ve conceived, thoroughly read the Maternity policy and benefits provided by your organization. Speak to HR personnel and understand in depth of all the coverage available. If the policy doesn’t seem to cover all expenses, pre and postnatal expenses, baby vaccinations (which are really very costly), then opt for Maternity Insurance, which can provide you complete coverage. 

4. Caretaker:

If you’re in a nuclear family, it is of prime importance that you plan up things so that you can balance your personal & professional life. Start looking for trusted agencies helping with nannies as they have experience in raising babies. You’ll need someone trustworthy after you’re exhausted with your maternity leaves. If someone from your family can come and support, nothing like that! But start working on the possible options, so that you’re not stressed out at the last moment.

5. Comfortable clothing:

When your body is undergoing changes, comfortable clothing helps you throughout this journey. There are many Pregnancy wears which you can opt for while going to work. Go for natural and soft fibers, as artificial fibers can make you feel breathe-less.

It is not necessary to wear extra loose clothing, but you should choose a type of clothing that makes feel comfortable. Try to avoid extra heels during pregnancy as it can result in mishaps.

While these are some important pointers a working pregnant woman should consider, ensure that you are not stressed out. Your body is really vulnerable during pregnancy, and any anxiety, stress, can impact you as well as the growing fetus. Enjoy the work you’re doing and start taking things “at ease”. For any concerns, keep on discussing with your gynecologist, as none can actually guide you better than your doctor. Ensure that you have a happy & positive atmosphere around you. You can also consider taking family health insurance which can cover you and your family at the same time on one policy.

It’s a new chapter of your life, turn it blissfully!