Sassy Belly

What is the secret to being pregnant and still looking good?

I can recall my mom talking to me about the various times when she was pregnant. She would wear her dad’s jeans and his work shirt during the course of the entire pregnancy. Since her family was rather poor, she never had maternity clothing to wear. Apparently thirty years ago buying maternity clothing cost a considerable amount of money.

If you go shopping these days or have access to online shopping at home, you will discover there are many sources of maternity wear for today’s women. Companies have worked hard to provide fashion and comfortable clothing for those women that need a ‘large’ amount of help with their wardrobe. The resources are vast for the woman great with child. While it is true that these stores do charge a little more for maternity outfits, it is possible that you can be looking good during pregnancy by following a few guidelines. Additionally, you can still keep your budget reasonable.

Consider the following tips for dressing smart and buying clothes when you are pregnant. The first suggestion for buying clothing is to buy well made outfits that can last through several babies. Since you will only wear the clothes for less than a year, put them away in cellophane when you are finished with them so they may be stored for next time. Make certain that the maternity clothing you buy is nice enough for you to wear while you are out at work, at the store, or when you are with your husband. When you are home you can wear sweatshirts and oversized t-shirts and raglan.

It might be wise to purchase maternity clothing that can also be used for nursing after delivery. There are many different styles for maternity clothes these days and with the many specialty stores and online outlets for purchase, it is easy to find well made and attractive outfits. Take your time and look for the best deals and those clothes that are more durable. If you shop around you will be successful and look great, too.

The Affect On Your Baby And You Of Preexisting Health Conditions

Certainly every woman’s intention is to do what ever she possibly can to maintain excellent health through nine months being pregnant. They must always be aware and take into consideration the fact that preexisting health conditions and any medications they might be taken figure also into the equation and can have implications on the pregnancy and on the baby. Some potential problems made possible can include congenital heart block, pre-eclampsia, developmental problems, weight issues, deformities and at worst death of child, mother or both.

Some of the preexisting health conditions may include anything from depression, substance abuse, epilepsy, eating disorders, hypertension, diabetes, infections, liver diseases, heart or thyroid problems, arthritis, asthma, anemia to human immunodeficiency virus(HIV). The good news is that these can with proper medical assistance be managed during this critical time.

Although it is normal for women to visit their obstetrician monthly while pregnant, those facing issues such as those listed will have to in most cases increase those visits. This allows the medical professionals to stay constantly on top of the situation at all times.

Those women knowing their preexisting health conditions should make every effort to consult a doctor prior to becoming pregnant. This is referred to as preconception planning and will be of great help in getting them to understand what risks are involved and how best to handle everything.

The preconception planning offers counseling to the couples involved, special diet planning and direction and medication information and suggestions. Medication and diet issues are vital to the pregnant mother and the unborn infant and the more direction offered and followed, the better the final results will be.

The life of the unborn child and the mother do not have to experience devastating results because of any preexisting health conditions involved. With proper medical guidance and the support of friends and family the net results can and will be possible.

Stress is the body’s natural reaction to a change in the environment. Everybody feels stress under certain circumstances but not everyone processes it the same way. The medical industry has seen an increase in illnesses related to stress around the world in recent years as people encounter constantly increasing demands on their time and energy. Stress can trigger a variety of symptoms and lead to disorders including heart disease, depression, hypertension and erectile dysfunction.

Eustress is a condition brought about by positive stressors like an impending childbirth or wedding ceremony. Negative stressors like a car accident or death of a family member cause distress and are traumatizing in a way that can affect health.

The relationship between stress and pregnancy is complicated because having a baby is a negative or a positive stressor depending on the situation. A pregnant woman is already under a great deal of physical stress carrying the baby for nine months. If she is facing an emotionally stressful situation like a divorce or physical distress from abuse, there can be a negative effect on the health of the child. Exposure to toxic materials and malnutrition are problems the infant may have if the mother is not taking care of herself throughout the pregnancy.

Extreme stress can trigger a premature birth, miscarriage or even be fatal to the mother. Cortisol, a hormone released under stressful conditions, can result in high blood pressure and increase the possibilities of complications during delivery. Depending on the extent of the damage, a child can suffer mental, developmental or physical problems that last a lifetime.

Regardless of the circumstances, a pregnant woman must do whatever she can to avoid unnecessary stress. The health of the child and her own life may depend on her willingness and ability to stay positive and guard her health during this crucial time.

Everybody should exercise to stay healthy but exercising during pregnancy can be beneficial in a number of ways. A light exercise routine is best during the early stages of pregnancy while the body is adjusting to the various changes.

Whatever exercise routine was followed before pregnancy should be scaled back. Heavy exercise must be avoided because it diverts blood from critical areas.

Yoga, walking and swimming are all safe exercises to do during pregnancy. Weight lifting is fine in moderation. Pregnant women should participate in physical activity at least three times a week but no more than four. Always speak to your doctor before beginning any fitness routine.

The Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy

1. Faster delivery and quicker recovery time

2. Decreased stress and improved mental well being

3. Lose baby weight faster after delivery

4. A healthy baby

5. Eliminate swelling, headaches, constipation and fatigue

6. Women who exercise are less likely to have a premature birth. The decrease in risk is more than 50 percent.

Make sure you are well hydrated before you begin exercising. Eat a healthy diet and do not overdo it. If you start to feel ill or notice a pain, stop exercising immediately and get some rest.

Delivering the child will be easier if you exercise before the due date. Exercising will tone the muscles and make you stronger. This will make the delivery easier for you to handle. Woman who fail to exercise can have a more difficult time when the baby is born.

The benefits of exercising during pregnancy are many but the fact that it is good for the baby’s health should be reason enough for you to start an exercise routine if you have not already. Discuss your plans with your doctor so the two of you can devise a safe routine that will benefit you and the baby.

Weight Gain During Pregnancy is a major cause of concern for many women that are expecting a little bundle of joy. Some related concerns are whether the amount gained is just right, not enough or a bit too big; how the weight gain will affect the body and whether it is possible to take all the weight off post-pregnancy. A health practitioner like an OB or a midwife are excellent resources for striking the right balance. However, there are some guidelines that have been published in recent years.

The amount of weight a person should gain during pregnancy is largely dependent on how much that person weighed prior to pregnancy. It also depends on whether it is a singleton pregnancy or a multiple pregnancy. In general (assuming the pregnancy is for only one baby)weight gain requirements run anywhere between 25 and 40 pounds. Some exceptions are those who are underweight will likely be asked to gain more while someone who is overweight will be likely asked to curtail weight-gain with a preference for gaining no more than 25 pounds. Do not worry however as the birth alone takes off a significant amount of weight; up to 15 pounds since babies are typically between 6 and 8 pounds and a birth expels the placenta and amniotic fluid.

While being careful about weight is important, it is not safe to go on a diet during pregnancy. Any doctor or midwife will confirm this. What is important is a healthy, balanced diet with enough nutrients to support the growing baby. The rule is typically 300 extra calories for one baby and 450 extra for twins. A pregnancy-safe exercise routine is another way to ensure weight gain does not get out of hand. In fact, it can also help in labor and delivery as well as in reducing pregnancy-related aches and pains.

The effects of consuming alcoholic drinks during pregnancy

Many articles have been written about the effects of consuming alcoholic drinks during pregnancy. There have also been debates and research studies concerning this issue.

Some researchers claim that moderate consumption of alcohol during pregnancy is harmless, but others believe that even a single drink is harmful to the health of the baby.

The one thing that all the experts agree on is that the expectant mother is connected directly to the unborn baby, so whatever she eats or drinks is available at the placenta for the unborn baby to absorb.

Research has shown that alcohol interferes with the unborn baby’s ability to get enough nourishment and oxygen for normal cell development in body organs such as the brain. Studies have also concluded that the unborn baby has very little tolerance for alcohol. According to scientists, infants born to mothers who consume alcoholic drinks during pregnancy can develop very serious health problems. FAS or Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a pattern of physical and mental defects that occur in some unborn babies when the expectant mother drinks too much alcohol. A baby born with FAE (Fetal Alcohol Effects) or FAS can develop serious handicaps and may require special care throughout his or her life. Some researchers are of the opinion that women should stop drinking even before they conceive.

The Department of Health raised a serious debate when it claimed that those hoping to get pregnant and women who are already pregnant can drink up to two glasses of wine per week without harming the developing foetus.

However, experts like Dr Raja Mukherjee called for all expectant mothers to stop drinking alcohol completely. Dr Raja works at the St George’s hospital in Tooting, London. Furthermore, he claimed that the binge drinking culture of Britons was of particular concern. The expert claims that there is literary evidence showing that binge drinking and consumption of wine in pregnancy can cause serious problems.

According to the Department of Health, the report released at the conference was based on a review carried out in March as part of the alcohol harm reduction plan formulated by the government.

Hormones released during your pregnancy may have an effect on your complexion but those effects vary. You may suddenly notice acne pimples on your face even though you have never had skin problems before. If your skin was bad before your pregnancy, it may now be free of blemishes. Regardless of what skin changes during pregnancy you are experiencing, you should be cleansing and moisturizing the skin every day. Never squeeze or pop acne because it can lead to scarring. If acne gets worse, consult with your physician about treatment options.

Ways to Prevent Acne Breakouts

- Use a mild soap to wash the face twice a day. Exfoliating is helpful but avoid scrubbing the skin.

- Getting enough exercise will improve circulation and increase the oxygen supply to the skin. Exercise is also a good way to eliminate stress.

- If a pimple develops, let it heal without popping or squeezing it. Breaking the pimple open can spread the infection to other areas.

- Drinking plenty of water helps detoxify the body and flush impurities away.

- Replace refined carbohydrates and sugar in the diet with fresh vegetables and fruit.

- Use warm water and mild soap to clean any cosmetic brushes you use on a regular basis. Purchase cosmetics that are not oil based.

- Protect the skin from heat, cold and sunlight.

- Wear loose clothing so sweat can evaporate away from the body.

Acne Treatments

- Tea tree oil and lavender are natural antibiotics that will sooth red and itchy skin. A couple drops of tea tree oil in boiling water makes a refreshing steam facial. Finish the treatment by splashing the face with cold water to close up the pores.

- Rub fresh garlic on the irritated area.

- Apply a mixture of ground cinnamon and lemon juice.

- Use a cotton ball to blot vinegar on the acne. Rinse the vinegar off with cold water after ten minutes.

- Use lemon juice as a natural exfoliate.

- Beaten egg white applied to the skin will tighten pores and nourish the skin with fatty acids and proteins.

- Apply an ice cube as soon as you see the hint of a pimple.

Back Pain During Early Pregnancy

In the early stages of pregnancy, back pain is a normal occurrence. Most expectant mothers often experience this type of pain which normally subsides in the 20th week. Back pain or spasm is caused by the stretching of muscles. Most women usually experience burning pain in the right or left side of the quadrant. The pain occurs when the disks and supporting ligaments soften up when progesterone hormone levels in the body increase during the early stages of pregnancy. Another cause of back pain in some pregnant women is urinary infection. Back pain during pregnancy can also be attributed to the shifting of the center of gravity of the expectant mother to accommodate the extra weight.

Remedies for Early Pregnancy Back Pain

Exercise is the safest and most effective treatment for pregnancy back pain. During early pregnancy, the use of certain medications is prohibited, so mini-crunches, walking and pelvic rocking are the most effective remedies for back pain during early pregnancy. Most women can do these exercises at home without the help of an instructor or fitness expert.

The relationship between pregnancy and back pain is well known, and experts have come up with preventive measures. For instance, experts are of the opinion that good body mechanics and the right body posture can help to keep and expectant mother free of pregnancy back pain. Standing tall and straight is the right posture for expectant mothers. However, during the late stages of pregnancy, the posture of the expectant mother will be greatly altered to accommodate the expanding uterus. Therefore, the most effective remedy for preventing or reducing back pain in the late stages of pregnancy is to avoid standing for long periods and changing sitting positions frequently.

Adequate rest and sleep is also good for both pregnancy and back pain. You should also avoid strenuous activities during pregnancy. If the back pain is too severe, you should consider visiting your doctor as soon as possible.

If you experience food cravings during pregnancy, you are definitely not alone. More than 75 percent of women who are pregnant report craving certain foods during their pregnancy. Most women crave salt, dairy or sugar but the stories about ice cream and pickles are based in fact. Some women crave all kinds of weird food combinations.

As long as the craving is for food, there is nothing to worry about. Wives’ tales associate cravings with the baby’s sex. Women who craved cheese or meat were said to be having a boy. Those craving sweets were believed to be bearing girls. If the cravings turn to unusual substances like dirt or clay, there may be a medical problem. Women who are anemic due to an iron deficiency may crave dirt, clay or chalk.

Many medical professionals believe that people crave the foods their body needs. The desire for salty snacks may indicate the body’s need for sodium due to an increase in blood volume. Fruit cravings may signal a need for vitamin C. Humans do not always interpret the signals correctly. A craving for something sweet may be met with a candy bar when a piece of fruit or some berries is what the body really needs. Letting the cravings get out of control can lead to unhealthy weight gain.

To control your cravings, start by eating a healthy breakfast. When you need a snack, choose a healthy alternative. Eat soy crisps instead of potato chips. Keep some grapes frozen for the next time you crave something sweet.

Practice portion control. When you have to have some chocolate, have a snack size instead of the king size bar. It is fine to give in to your cravings now and again as long as you do not go overboard.

There is no reason to feel guilty when you indulge your food cravings. They are common to most pregnancies and it is worse to feel deprived because you may come to resent your pregnancy. You can eat the foods you like as long as you do it in moderation.

An increasing number of women are choosing to work into the last trimester of their pregnancy, partly due to financial reasons, although many career women consider their job to be almost as important as their family. Some women work right up until the actual time of delivery, a big difference from how things used to be when almost as soon as they knew they were pregnant, most women would stop working. This has long been regarded as a contributing factor to women not achieving as much at work as most men.

Although it is quite possible for a pregnant woman to work during pregnancy, it is generally not advisable and when it comes to pregnancy and your job, the following should be considered. If you work while pregnant, your performance may be affected by morning sickness, which despite the name, can strike at any time of day. Job stress may make the stress of being pregnant more noticeable, and certain types of working environment may be dangerous or unhealthy for the unborn child. These can include extremes of temperature, shift work, heavy lifting, vibrations from machinery, prolonged standing and even a long commute.

If you are a pregnant woman continuing to work, there are some changes that should be made, even if your job does not present any obvious health problem or threat.

In case of morning sickness or nausea, drink plenty of fluid and keep a supply of hard candy, crackers, ginger ale and other bland foods on hand.

Because you are likely to feel tired more easily, make sure you are getting plenty of rest and a good night’s sleep. You may have to rearrange your work schedule, and cut back on such things as chores or outside the home activities.

The right exercise is essential, and it can help to eliminate stress, build muscles and eliminate various health issues such as poor circulation and constipation. Pelvic exercises are ideal, as is yoga and low impact aerobic exercises.

Make sure you are lifting and bending correctly, using your knees and not your waist. Avoid lifting items that are potentially too heavy.