Pregnancy during the festive season
The festive season can be the most magnificent time. With some planning, this can be the best holiday season you have ever experienced even if you are pregnant.
If you concentrate on the positive side, you will diminish your feelings of anxiety, have a great time, and fortify the connections that mean the most to you.
What are some healthy foods to eat at holiday gatherings?
The healthiest foods are the ones that provide protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Some of the most common are:
Fresh fruits and vegetables.
Nuts, provide healthy oils and protein.
Lentils and beans, add fiber to the diet, which helps with constipation, which is common during pregnancy.
Fish is a healthy source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Water, It’s not food, but staying hydrated is very important when you are pregnant.
Is it safe to travel while pregnant?
Yes, given that you have consulted your doctor along with the usual precautions. Pay attention to how you are feeling, especially if you are in the first trimester. If you are having morning sickness, you may not find it comfortable to be a guest in someone else’s home. Shared bathrooms, strange cooking scents, and difficulty planning your eating schedule can be stressful. The fatigue that’s common in the first trimester also can make traveling a challenge. Consider your previous pregnancies. If you had an earlier pre-term delivery or another high-risk condition, it may be best to stay relatively close to home.
You have to Travel with an updated copy of your prenatal chart. If there is an emergency, a doctor can use it to find out how far along you are, what medicines you’re taking, and how to contact your doctor.
How about holiday shopping?
Holiday shopping can be overwhelming even when you’re not pregnant. To reduce some of the stress, shop at off-hours, such as early on weekdays when the stores may be less crowded. Or do your shopping online and keep your budget in mind when you are buying gifts.
If you’re visiting a mall that offers valet parking, it may be worth it to save your energy. Once inside, take breaks to sit down and get something to eat.
What if the baby is Due During the Holidays?
There’s no reason to stay home but you should not be traveling more than a few miles from home close to your due date. Not only are long travel times painful and potentially dangerous (increased risk of blood clots in the legs); they take you away from your doctor and the hospital where you’ll be delivering.
Pack your hospital bag early, don’t leave this task until the last minute and make sure you collect everything you need at least two weeks in advance of your due date and keep the bag in a place where anyone can find it.
If you stay home, try to limit house guests to those who will be truly helpful and not a burden to you.