
We are searching data for your request:
Upon completion, a link will appear to access the found materials.
To-do's for any time
Here are a few things to think about doing throughout your pregnancy, from staying well hydrated to taking a series of belly photos.
Drink water
During pregnancy you need about 10 8-ounce glasses of water or other beverages each day (80 fluid ounces). You may need more if it's warm out or you're exercising. Keep an eye on your urine color – if you're well hydrated, it should be clear or pale yellow.
Stretch
Stretching keeps you more flexible, prevents your muscles from tightening, and makes you feel looser and more relaxed.
Check out these soothing pregnancy stretches.
Take a pregnancy power nap
When fatigue makes it hard to get through the day, revive yourself with a 15-minute snooze. If you're at work, find a place you can escape to (close your office door, use a conference room, or even sit in your car) and set the alarm on your cell phone.
Have healthy snacks on hand
When hunger attacks, it helps to have snacks that pack a nutritional punch ready in your desk, purse, or car. And if you're suffering from morning sickness, munching on a simple snack like crackers throughout the day or before you get out of bed can ease nausea.
Get ideas for healthy pregnancy snacks.
Try a relaxation technique
Deep breathing, guided imagery, prenatal yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help you stay on an even keel – and sleep better.
Learn how to do these relaxation techniques.
Take a quick walk
A 15- to 20-minute walk can help boost your energy levels when you're exhausted.
Find out why walking is such a great pregnancy exercise.
Eat a pregnancy superfood
To give your pregnancy a nutritional boost, nosh on colorful fruits and veggies, eggs, salmon, sweet potatoes, yogurt, walnuts, beans, and more.
Write down a pregnancy memory
Whether you keep a formal journal or just jot down a few notes when the spirit moves you, you'll love sharing these pregnancy stories with your child someday.
Get tips on writing a pregnancy diary.
Track your weight gain
Your caregiver will monitor your pregnancy weight to make sure you're in a healthy range and gaining at an appropriate pace. You can also use our pregnancy weight gain tool to stay on track.
Use our Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator.
Do something nice for yourself
If you're feeling up to it, go to a movie, have dinner out, get a pedicure, or do something else you enjoy. You deserve it – pregnancy is hard work!
Get ideas for looking and feeling great during pregnancy.
Check in with a friend
Pregnancy is an emotional roller coaster. Ease your mind by sharing your fears, hopes, and excitement with a friend or a fellow mom-to-be in BabyCenter's Community.
You may also want to take a look at our list of what not to worry about when you're expecting.
Know the signs of a pregnancy problem
Here's a rundown of symptoms that could be a sign of a problem. If you have any of these complaints, call your doctor or midwife immediately.
Take belly photos
Taking a picture of your belly at regular intervals is a great way to document your growing bump. For inspiration, visit our pregnant bellies photo gallery.
Have sex if you feel like it
If you're feeling amorous (and you don't have any complications that may make sex dangerous), go ahead – you won't hurt your baby.
Find out more about having sex during pregnancy.
Jenny is an editor and journalist living in Oakland, CA.
advertisement | page continues below