Moore Pregnancy Advice

If you’re new to my blog, this is my second pregnancy and I must say the statement “each pregnancy is different’ holds so much truth.

During my first pregnancy I was working a full time and part time job, enrolled in 6 Undergraduate on campus classes, and not really aware of the physical transformation I was experiencing.

Now, I am a full time Graduate student and have been blessed to be able to fully enjoy the entire pregnancy experience from beginning to end without other obligations.

I’ve created a list of tips that have been very helpful during this pregnancy. I want to share as much valuable information with new Mommy’s because you honestly have no idea what the transformation truly entails without hearing the experiences of others.

• Honor your body’s need to rest. Don’t overwork your mind or your body. What your body says goes during this time and it is best to listen. When you need a day to just lie in bed or kick your feet up, take full advantage of it.
• Hydrate. Please be sure to drink more water than you’ve ever drunk in your entire life. The body can become very dehydrated quicker because you are now nurturing another life. Water helps increase energy and alleviate premature Braxton Hicks.
• Learn to manage your resources wisely. During this time it is vital to be aware of the people, money, support, places, and programs that are available to you so that you can better prepare for this 10 month long journey and postpartum process.
• Be more active (if possible). Some Mommy’s are put on bed rest by their providers and if so, please honor that request. However, if you are all in the clear to be active, please take at least 30 minutes of your day to walk, stretch, pregnant yoga, dance, or participate in light cardio. Google is a great resource for finding pregnancy approved routines.
• Know what your insurance covers. As adults, I know health insurance is a thing we all dread but during this time, it is very important to know what services are fully covered and also what free programs and incentives you’re given as a new Mommy.
• Cry. With an increase in hormones it is only expected that you are overly emotional. Never resist the need to cry. It is completely okay to feel however you feel and everyone around you should respect it.
• Get what you crave. Pregnancy creates some very weird cravings and take it from me, ignoring them will only leave you hungry and emotional. Sometimes your body won’t let you eat anything else until you’ve satisfied your craving.
• Be ready for everyday change. No seriously! Everyday your body makes some minor change which has a macro affect on your body and emotions. From morning sickness, hives, restlessness, leaky breasts, an increase in vaginal discharge, hair growth or loss, appetite loss, and many other things; it’s best to be prepared to make yourself as comfortable as possible.
• Join a support group. There are a ton of online support groups for Mommy’s that provide free information and sometimes even free stuff. There are apps that help track your weekly progression and allow you to interact with Mommy’s locally and worldwide. Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook also have very supportive communities.
• Snack. It is completely okay to each that cupcake, candy, or brownie but find healthy snacks to increase energy and gain healthy weight. Nausea and morning sickness will make it more difficult to eat bigger meals throughout the day. Trail mix, yogurt, carrots and celery, and fruit salads have been my go to snacks during this pregnancy. I’ve gained about 40 pounds but most of it is from snacking.
• Be patient. Towards the end of pregnancy, you will become impatient waiting on your bundle of joy to be born. If you’re anything like me, you will surpass your due date and may have to be induced. Be okay with being up to 42 weeks pregnant, as long as your baby is healthy. As badly as we would want to deliver on time, labor is a process with a mind of it’s own and patience is vital for your mental and emotional sanity. Occupy your time with activities you enjoy or nesting for baby.

I do hope this list helps whomever it resonates with.

I wish each and every Mommy a healthy and prosperous journey to Motherhood.

Best of luck to you and yours! ❤

< Image credit: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/12/28/opinion/pregnancy-women-pro-life-abortion.html >