Welcome to Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most exciting and unsure times of your life. You will undoubtedly have a lot questions: Will I be a good parent? Do I really need to buy this? Will my child like the name I have picked out? Believe it or not, this anxiety will soon subside and you will really start to embrace your pregnancy. Remember this is a special time in your life. Take the time to stop and smell the roses along the way.

• Start celebrating your pregnancy by snapping a profile photo of yourself every month. It is fun to see how much progress your belly makes every month.
• Take time to educate yourself on pregnancy, labor and delivery. The more you know the less unsure you will feel. The Internet is a fantastic resource; there are sites on almost every topic imaginable. For the best and most accurate advice, look for sites associated with medical practitioners.
• Enjoy a pedicure every once in a while. Not only does it feel great, after the fifth month, painting your toenails is pretty much impossible. But after your 30th week, avoid any foot massage. Certain foot pressure points could induce labor.
• Your body is a temple. Start drinking plenty of water, keep up a low-impact fitness routine, and make sure you are eating the healthiest food possible for you and your growing baby. Now is not the time to skip meals.
• Start looking around for photographers for “belly shots;” Many women are posing for pregnancy portraits when their belly is at its largest and some photographers offer packages that include a pregnancy portrait and a newborn photo.
• Determine the best time to make your pregnancy public. If this is your first pregnancy, it is best to wait until your doctor has confirmed your pregnancy before you start telling all of your friends. At this time tell only your closest family and friends. Most women wait until they are 12 weeks along before the sharing the news with c-workers and acquaintances.
• Sleep. Sleep. Sleep. All of the changes taking place with your body can wear a girl out. Take the pre-baby opportunity to take naps whenever and for as long as you want!
• Use this time to a take a romantic trip with your spouse. Most doctors allow their patients to fly up to 36 weeks. Enjoy sleeping in, relaxing all day and eating great dinners. This special one on one time is tougher to plan and schedule once baby arrives.