10 things you should think about while you are pregnant

Pregnancy should be a time to be savoured but all too often stress and anxiety creeps in. Stay positive throughout your pregnancy with these motivational tips.

By Lynne Roberts

Accept help when you need it

OK, so you’re pregnant and not ill, but there’s no reason to suffer in silence if your swollen feet are killing you. Some women take pregnancy ailments in their stride, but for many, morning sickness, back ache or mood swings can take their toll.

Don’t be shy about asking for help and accept that you sometimes need to put yourself first.

Flash your ‘baby on board’ badge for a seat on the bus and don’t feel guilty about working from home, or taking the day off if you need it – that presentation will just have to wait.
Buy the right clothes

In the early days of your pregnancy a bump band can help your everyday wardrobe go a long way, but there will come a time when it’s no just longer feasible to squeeze yourself into your skinny jeans (or indeed see much of your legs).

Give in gracefully. Surrender to elasticated waistbands and flat shoes and spend the last weeks in comfort.

You don’t need to spend a fortune on maternity gear – after all you’ll only get a few weeks wear out of it – so it’s worth checking out eBay or borrowing from friends.
Eat better

Give your baby the best possible start with a healthy diet that will benefit you all. Ditch the junk and build meals around a good balance of starchy foods, fruit and vegetables, meat, fish and dairy.

Eat little and often to quell morning sickness and keep energy levels stable,.

Drink lots of water and avoid the trap of eating for two – you’ll need just 200 extra calories a day in the last trimester.
Get your finances in shape

Babies don’t need much in the first few months, but they’re not tiny for long and before you know it you’ll be thinking about childcare, clothing and a bigger space for you all.

Now’s the time to get your finances in order, so write that will, make sure you receive any benefits you’re entitled to and start saving a set amount each month for your little one.

Even if it’s a small amount it all helps towards future costs.
Plan ahead

In the final weeks of pregnancy everything is focused on the birth, but there is life after labour so start thinking about the reality of life with a new baby. Do you have the equipment you need – and the know-how?

Stock up the freezer, put together a checklist and make sure you’re both ready to deal with feeding, changing and sleepless nights.

Then look up breastfeeding groups, baby clinics or other ways to meet new mums in your area – that way you’ll have a support network already in place when you need it.
Stay positive

Hormones have a lot to answer for during pregnancy and you don’t know how you’ll feel from one day to the next.

Get plenty of rest and try relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing exercises or yoga to help you stay positive – you’ll soon feel more in control.
Exercise

The right exercise will help increase energy levels, keep your weight in check and improve strength and stamina to help you prepare for labour – plus you’ll get back in shape quicker after the birth.

Be sensible and don’t embark on a strenuous routine if you’re not used to it. Stick to low-impact activity like yoga, swimming or walking, building up to three 30 minute sessions a week but check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regime.
Ask the right questions

Preparing for childbirth is a big step into the unknown and it can be hard to know what choices to make along the way.

What will happen if you’re overdue or need medical intervention during labour? Make sure you’re clued up about pain relief options and think about the kind of birth you want.

Asking the right questions will allow you to make informed decisions and help you feel more in control, so attend as many antenatal classes as possible and talk to other mums to find out what to ask your midwife.
Keep a scrapbook

Pregnancy is a waiting game - at times it feels as if it will last forever. But one day you’ll look back and it will seem like it was all over in a flash.

Make a scrapbook where you can keep a record of how you feel and the changes your body is going through. Take pictures of your growing bump and include ultrasound pictures, test results and notes about when you told family and friends or how you went about choosing a name.

You’ll have a keepsake to treasure and to show your kids in years to come.
Believe in yourself

When it comes to babies everyone seems to have something to say, and you’ll be on the receiving end of endless advice from friends, relatives and even strangers.

Don’t be pressured into doing things a certain way, whether it’s how you look, what you eat or what names, clothes or equipment you choose for your baby. Believe in yourself.

Every birth is different and every baby unique so have confidence in your own abilities – be grateful for the support but do things your way.
Next Up: Ovulation and Fertility Calculator
Don't leave it all to chance if you're trying to get pregnant.