If it’s been established that you are pregnant, then congratulations and welcome to the club! Here are the basic things you need to know about pregnancy, a.k.a. nine months of joy and pains!
It takes a while for the news to settle, even for yourself. Stay calm and revel in this new step in your life. There’ll be many firsts in the coming months, take it all in and go with the flow.
Telling your family and friends the good news is a really fun exercise. Watching their faces light up will make you happy-happy too. :)
No two pregnancies are identical, even for the same woman. So don’t always go by the book or listen to someone and press the panic button. Some people get morning sickness, some don’t, some people like khatta stuff, others abhor it during pregnancy... It’s all okay.
Doesn’t matter how good your cousin’s or friend’s gynecologist is reputed to be, remember that it’ll be you on that delivery table, and this is the person who will bring your child to the world. Make sure your doctor is someone you are comfortable with, and so is the hospital. (POPxo gives you some pointers on how to choose your ob/gyn.)
The minute the news is out, there’ll be plenty of advice pouring in from friends and family who’ve been there, done that. Then there will be your own study online. Soon you're going to be drowning in information. But remember this: it’s best to consult your gynaecologist before you execute any of the suggestions you come across.
Get plenty of rest as and when your body demands it. At no cost must you overtire yourself.
During pregnancy, there are unique nutritional requirements for you and your growing baby. Eat healthy and follow the list of foods to avoid down to the tee. Get your daily dose of folic acid, calcium, iron, protein and fluids. Remember that your baby eats what you eat, so choose your food wisely.
Join an antenatal class to be better prepared to combat labour fears and have a well-informed delivery. Bonus: You get to make new mommy friends who are just like you – happy and bloated!
From hearing the baby’s heartbeat for the first time to crying with joy after viewing the sonograms and feeling the baby move, there’ll be lots of priceless moments to cherish for life. Make sure you document the most beautiful journey of your life. :)