Congrats, You're Pregnant! Now What? (Some Basics for the Mom-to-Be)

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!

1. Slow down

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.

2. Spread the joy

Telling your family and friends the good news is a really fun exercise. Watching their faces light up will make you happy-happy too. :)

3. All pregnancies are different

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.

4. Choose the right doctor and hospital

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.)

5. Choose your advice

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.

6. Mollycoddle yourself

Now is the time for all that pending pampering. Others will do it for you, but you too must take time for yourself to read, listen to music, watch movies and do things that make you happy.

7. Go for walks

Walking is healthy for the body and mind. Staying fit throughout your pregnancy will lower your chances of having a difficult delivery.

8. Never a dull moment

There will always be a lot to do. Think of baby names, plan the nursery, clothes to shop for you (yes, yes) and making booties for the baby and more. Enjoy!

9. Bond with the baby

Even if it is the size of a peanut in the first months, keep in mind that parent-child bonding begins early.

10. Sleep often

Get plenty of rest as and when your body demands it. At no cost must you overtire yourself.

11. Stay nourished

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.

12. Pregnancy classes

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!

13. Keep a pregnancy journal

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. :)

MUST-READ: The 10 Most Awesome Perks of Being Pregnant MUST-READ: 6 Things to Do When You Start Planning Your Baby