PLANNING TO BE A MOM? THINGS YOU SHOULD BE PREPARED WITH

• divya
• 4 years ago
• 9 min read

Womanhood achieves its complete sense when she becomes a mother. The thought of being pregnant is exciting but also a responsible act to carry. Couples when decide to become parents must have a clear idea that they are going to create a new life which as for the coming 9 months is entirely their responsibility. There are certain preparations that a mother can do well in advance to have a healthy conception. A healthy mother’s body will ensure the optimal growth of the child. – PLANNING TO BE A MOM IS NO LESS THAN PLANNING A MIRACLE.

1. Eat well

A balanced diet is always good for you. Follow a healthy diet before you get pregnant. A few simple guidelines are:
• Reduce empty calories, artificial sweeteners, and caffeine.
• Eat foods that are high in protein, folic acid, and vitamins.
• Fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products will make you healthier before you get pregnant.

2. Get a good exercise routine:

Exercising before you get pregnant may help your body deal with all of the changes that you will go through during the pregnancy and labor.
Most women who already exercise can safely maintain their current exercise program throughout most of their pregnancy.
And most women, even if they are not currently exercising, should start on an exercise program of 30 minutes of brisk exercise; 5 days per week, both before conceiving and throughout pregnancy. Not only does exercise give you more energy and reduce your stress, but it also helps you sleep better which are all important benefits when you’re trying to conceive.

3. De-stress yourself while planning to be a mother:

Stress can wreck havoc on your body by boosting cortisol levels, which can suppress ovulation and decrease sperm count and sex drive. Stress also tightens your body, which can stagnate energy and constrict blood flow.

4. Try keeping yourself optimistic:

Our minds are powerful, so watch those thoughts! Turn negative thoughts into positive affirmations, for example, my body is strong and healthy for pregnancy or I can get pregnant easily. Put them up them all over your house where you can see, read, and absorb them daily.

5. Read:

Reading is one of the best de-stressing activities and that too when planning to become parents. Read good books that encourage your mindset to be lively. Read about pregnancy, how it works, what to avoid, accept, and expect.

6. Get off those extra pounds:

While you plan to get pregnant, It’s tempting to think, I’m going to get fat anyway while pregnant, so do I really need to lay off the Lays? Sorry, but the answer is yes. When it comes to pregnancy, body mass index (BMI) matters. 12 percent of all infertility cases are the result of “deviations in body weight from the established norm” (or weighing too much or too little). https://dashnutrition.org/weight-loss-reality/

Achieve a BMI of 19 to 25.” Anything over a BMI of 30 is considered obese, The good news, though, is that even a little weight loss will help. Studies suggest that overweight or obese women who lose as little as 5 to 10 percent of their body weight can improve their chances of conceiving. Similarly, women with a BMI lower than the normal range (less than 19) can have problems conceiving, as they may experience skipped periods or menstruate without having ovulated. If you’re underweight, speak with us about healthy ways to put on some pounds. Click to have a conversation https://dashnutrition.org/contact/

7. Ditch caffeine and junk:

You should also cut down on caffeine when you are trying to get pregnant. Women who daily consume more than 2 cups (500 mL) of coffee or 5 cans (2 L) of soda that contains caffeine may have a harder time getting pregnant and a greater chance of miscarriage.
Junks are empty calories and high in refined carbohydrates which you should try to substitute with wholesome eating options if you plan to be a healthy mom soon.

8. Stay hydrated:

Keep on gulping water, healthy smoothies, and other healthy drinks that will help your body to flush out toxins and add in more nutrients.

9. Say ‘NO’ to alcohol and smoking:

These can cause damage to eggs and sperm which affect the health of a future child. Women who consume large amounts of caffeine take longer to conceive and may have a higher risk of miscarriage. In men, alcohol can impair fertility because it can cause impotence, reduce libido, and affect sperm quality. To avoid this you should stop smoking at least a few months before trying to conceive. Also, stay away from secondhand smoke. This is smoke from someone else’s cigarettes, cigar, or pipe.

10. Try keeping yourself away from getting infections:

There is no point in deviating your body towards another hassle activity when you are already planning to be a mom and nurture another life right inside you. Your baby needs a healthy and clean home to live. Be protective of your body.

11. See your doctor:

You should also get a pap smear and breast check. If you chose to vaccinate, make sure you’re up to date on your vaccines.
Pro tip: If medicines or supplements are not absolutely necessary, DO NOT take them.