HEALTH AND SELF-CARE TIPS FOR NEW MOTHER
Pregnancy and motherhood are a natural part of a woman’s life circle. It is a time full of changes – some unexpected. These changes affect a woman’s body, her emotions, and many other parts of her life- like relationships, work, and finances.
Preparing to become a mother involves learning new things, new information, new skills, new ways of looking at the world-each and every time you become a mother.
SELF-CARE TIPS FOR NEW MOTHER
Self-care is important for a healthy home. And it starts with knowing what resources are available to support you during and after your pregnancy. Take these steps to keep tabs on your health during and after pregnancy.
1- Take prenatal vitamins
Prenatal vitamins can help prevent birth defects. They also help your baby grow healthy and strong and help you with morning sickness. You will want to make sure your prenatal vitamins have folic acid, iron, and calcium in them. If you need help getting prenatal vitamins, ask your care provider about programs as there are many herbal and ayurvedic medicine that are for expecting moms.
2- Manage substance use
Avoid consuming alcohol or cigarettes. If you need help quitting, contact your care provider or call the substance use disorder helpline toll-free at 1-855-780-5955, available 24/7. United health care members can also contact the healthy first steps program toll-free at 1-800-599-5985.
3- Manage morning sickness
Morning sickness can be hard on you and should be taken seriously. Make sure you drink plenty of water and eat small meals often. Foods like rice, bananas, and cereal may be easier on your stomach. Stay away from spicy or fatty foods.
4- Keep moving
Exercise is always important, but especially during pregnancy. Regular walk is an easy way to keep moving. It’s likely you will feel tired as you get later in your pregnancy. Always listen to your body and talk to your care provider before trying a new exercise routine.
5- Manage stress
A new born baby can make you feel worried, especially during covid-19. Your prenatal appointment is a form of self-care. Talk to your care provider if you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, or anxious.
6- Check in with your care provider
Your care provider can help you during pregnancy and after the birth of child. This includes answering your questions about getting healthy food, drinking enough water, and recovering from birth. As it stands today we have many organic supplements to go with as they can help significantly. You can also talk to them about any concerns you have as you adjust to your new baby.
7- Stay connected to others
Having a support network outside of your household is important. Set up regular times to check in by phone or video chat. This may include your friends, family, or members of a local religious or community organization.
8- Shower and dress each day
It can be easy to lose track of time each day when you are taking care of a newborn. But creating a routine can help you feel more normal and lets you take time for yourself.
9- Drink enough water
All moms, especially those who are breastfeeding, should make sure they are drinking enough water. This is especially important when you are nursing at night. Keep a water bottle beside your bed and with you during the night.
10- Relax when baby naps
It can be tempting to wash the dishes or do laundry when the baby takes a nap. But caring for yourself is important. Take a moment to relax when the baby is sleeping. This might include taking naps, watching TV, or calling a friend.
ADJUSTING TO BODY CHANGES
You have to learn to separate the anxiety of getting bigger from the experience of being pregnant and accept that it’s just part of being pregnant.
It’s undeniable-a woman’s body changes when she becomes a mother, you may love your tummy during pregnancy, but learning to accept your new body may take some time.
While many new mothers wish they could quickly regain their pre-baby bodies, for most it takes time, good nutrition, and regular exercise.
Remember, some body changes may be more permanent.
CONCLUSION
Each woman is a unique individual and each pregnancy is a unique experience.
This experience is shaped in part by a woman’s cultural background, as well as her own life experience.
Sometimes it’s hard for new mothers to know what to expect, especially if they don’t know what other women typically experience.