Whether you are newly pregnant or currently trying to conceive, you must keep yourself and your baby as healthy as possible. Aside from following the advice from your healthcare providers, there are several things that you can do to help yourself. Let's take a look at some of the tips you can use to make sure you have a healthy pregnancy.
Put Together a Birth Plan
It might be a good idea to put together a birth plan that will outline your wishes regarding your labor and delivery. It can include who you would like to accompany you in the delivery room, what type of pain relief you are comfortable with, and what steps you want to take in case of any complications. You should give a copy of your birth plan to your doctors before going into labor. This means you don't have to worry about making your feelings known while you may be feeling overwhelmed.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
It is smart to take prenatal vitamins both while trying to conceive and while pregnant. Talk to your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, for advice about which vitamins are going to be important based on the rest of your medical history. However, general prenatal vitamins include a combination of vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid, calcium, and iron. This will help bridge any nutritional gaps in your diet, which will support your baby's development. You won't need a prescription for prenatal vitamins, you can pick them up over-the-counter at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN.
Medication Safety
Not all medications are safe to take during pregnancy, as they could harm the baby or prompt early labor. Your medical care team should review any prescription medications you are taking and discuss alternatives with you if any of them cannot be used during pregnancy. However, if you have any concerns about your current medications and how they may impact your pregnancy, you can always visit your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, to get advice from a pharmacist.
Monitor Your Weight Gain
Gaining a little weight is to be expected during pregnancy; after all, you are growing a little human in your belly! However, it is important to track your weight gain to ensure you stay within healthy parameters for each stage of the pregnancy. Not gaining enough weight can result in developmental issues for the fetus, but gaining too much can also present difficulties for both the baby's and the mother's health.
Exercise Safely
A great way to maintain a healthy pregnancy is to continue to exercise throughout the pregnancy. However, you must consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. It is important to exercise safely and not overexert yourself. Yoga, swimming, and walking are all great options to keep you active, and they can also help elevate your mood, control your weight, and make you sleep more soundly at night.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is especially important for the mother and baby during pregnancy. It is important to note that you are not actually 'eating for two,' as the old saying goes! However, you should ensure you are getting enough nutrients to support you and your baby. You need plenty of foods in your diet that are rich in calcium and folates to help prevent birth defects and support healthy development for your baby. This includes milk, yogurt, leafy greens, beans, and citrus fruits. You will want to avoid raw or undercooked meats, poultry, and unpasteurized dairy. If you struggle to maintain good levels of calcium and folates via diet alone, talk to your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, about over-the-counter supplements to boost your levels.
Diabetes Testing
It is important for pregnant mothers to be tested for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks. If you are already at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, you may also need to be tested earlier in your pregnancy. Gestational diabetes can lead to complications for both mom and baby, so it is important to manage the condition appropriately with medication, diet, and exercise. You can get additional diabetes support via your local pharmacy in Powell, TN.
Additional Tips For Working Moms-To-Be
If you are working throughout your pregnancy, being mindful of your health and well-being is important. If you are working long hours, take short breaks throughout the day, even just a few minutes at a time. Make sure not to skip any meals, and if you are on your feet for most of the day, ask your employer if it is possible to be seated or to split breaks into shorter ones throughout your shift to allow you to get off your feet now and then. This will be especially important towards the end of your pregnancy.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581