THERE IS A BABY IN MY BODY!!!
How to support your body through the transitions
By Neubela Allison
When I found out that I was pregnant for the third time, my initial response was a little less than joyous. Don’t get me wrong - bringing a new life into this world is definitely a blessing - but my response to God was, "NOW?!". We just moved into a new house, I am neck deep into painting all kinds of renovation projects, I have two other children to care for and most importantly I just started going back to the gym to get my body back. Key words in that last statement - MY BODY. I only just recently stopped breast feeding; now this? I didn’t really have much time to be in denial, I was pulled into reality with the immediate onset of nausea and sleepiness. After a couple of weeks of being grumpy about it, I realized that was not working for me. I needed to make some changes and add some things that would not only help alleviate these symptoms but support me and the baby throughout the whole pregnancy. Below are some of the things that I started doing that have been a lifesaver. Some may seem like common sense, but sometimes we neglect the simple things. I am sure that most of these things can be helpful even if you are not pregnant.
- Set a regular time to go to bed and wake up. For me it was 8:30/9pm and up at 5am. I got tired early, but had my energy boost in the morning. I was able to get my 8 hours and sleep when the kids were sleeping and get some time in the morning for myself.
- Eat 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day as opposed to 3 large ones. I am eating maybe every 2-3 hours and it really helps offset the nausea.
- Stay hydrated. It is so important to get enough fluids. Dehydration can lead to all sorts of symptoms.
- Continue moving. I had started a class at the gym two days a week prior to getting pregnant; I continued going and I enjoy it. I don’t do the jumping or other moves that could be harmful but I do alternate motions. I also stretch every morning. Pregnancy is a 40 week journey - try to stay as strong and fit as you can. You will need it during labor.
- I chew gum when I am in the car to help with the motion sickness. Ginger and other remedies worked for me during my other pregnancies but for some reason gum hits the spot now.
Of course before doing anything you should consult your physician. I am now in my 19th week and things are going well. Pregnancy and birth are probably the most wonderful and strenuous things a woman’s body was created to do. The key is not to fight against it, but to work with it. Your body is pretty good at telling you what it needs, especially now, when there is another life depending on your well being. There are more things that I could add to this list but these are the easiest to implement. Enjoy the journey.
