EP 41: The Do's & Don'ts of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming, especially with all the advice coming from every direction.

As a certified doula and lactation consultant, I’m here to help you navigate this journey with confidence. Whether you’re newly pregnant or trying to conceive, knowing the essential do's and don’ts of pregnancy can set you up for success.

Here’s a breakdown of the key things you should be doing (and avoiding!) to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.

The Do’s of Pregnancy

1. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are non-negotiable during pregnancy. They provide essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, which help support your baby’s development and prevent birth defects. If you haven’t started taking prenatal vitamins yet, now is the time to get on board!

2. Stay Active
It’s easy to feel tired during pregnancy, but staying active can actually help you feel more energized. Regular movement—like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming—can lower your risk of complications, help with weight management, and keep you feeling strong.

3. Hydrate
Water is your best friend during pregnancy! Staying hydrated can prevent common pregnancy symptoms like headaches, swelling, and constipation, while also supporting healthy amniotic fluid levels. Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

4. Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep during pregnancy is critical, even though it can be tricky as your belly grows. Sleeping on your left side can help with circulation, and investing in a pregnancy pillow can provide much-needed support for your hips and bump.

5. Listen to Your Body
Your body will give you plenty of signals throughout your pregnancy—whether it’s telling you to rest, eat, or slow down. Pay attention to these cues, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if something doesn’t feel right.

The Don’ts of Pregnancy

1. Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol
Smoking and drinking alcohol can lead to serious complications for your baby, including developmental issues and premature birth. If you’re struggling to quit, don’t hesitate to seek support—there are plenty of resources available to help you.

2. Don’t Overdo Caffeine
While it can be tempting to lean on caffeine to get through those early, exhausting days, too much can be harmful. Experts recommend limiting caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day (roughly one 12-ounce cup of coffee).

3. Don’t Eat Certain Foods
During pregnancy, it’s best to avoid raw or undercooked meats, sushi, unpasteurized cheeses, and deli meats. These foods can carry bacteria like listeria, which can be harmful to your baby. Stick to freshly cooked and well-prepared meals to stay safe.

4. Don’t Stress
High stress levels during pregnancy can affect your health and your baby’s development. Prioritize self-care and find ways to relax, whether through meditation, prenatal yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths. Your mental well-being matters just as much as your physical health.

5. Don’t Skip Your Prenatal Appointments
Even if you’re feeling great, don’t skip those prenatal check-ups. These appointments are essential to track your baby’s growth and catch any potential issues early on.

How to Prepare for Birth Like a Boss

Feeling overwhelmed about preparing for birth? I’ve got you covered. My Bump to Bundle Blueprint course walks you through every step of the way, from creating your birth plan to learning how to breastfeed confidently. It’s your all-in-one guide to navigating pregnancy and preparing for motherhood with ease.

👉🏽Join my Bump to Bundle Blueprint today! 

Final Thoughts

Remember, every pregnancy is unique. While these guidelines are helpful, always trust your instincts and be your own advocate. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You’ve got this, mama!

If you found this post helpful, be sure to share it with another mama who could use some pregnancy guidance, too. And don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more tips on pregnancy, birth, and beyond.

Related Posts You Might Like:

• How to Create Your Perfect Birth Plan
• The Early Signs of Pregnancy: What to Look For
• Breastfeeding Basics: What Every New Mom Should Know

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Links mentioned in this episode:

 3 Mistakes Pregnant Moms Make When Preparing for Their First Birth (+ what to do instead) https://www.birthprepacademy.com/masterclass

Prepare for your first hospital birth with a stress-free birth blueprint in 6 weeks!

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How To Skyrocket Your Milk Supply (...from birth and beyond) https://www.birthprepacademy.com/milksupply

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