CHANGES TO MUM
During your first trimester it is extremely important to take care of yourself to supply your growing baby and the placenta. In previous articles the importance of eating right and drinking plenty of water is discussed. While you are pregnant you may have to make some adjustments to your life style for the benefit of your baby’s development.
Make Important Life Style Changes When Pregnant - Don't Let Your Baby Start Smoking!
Some of these life style changes might include stopping drinking alcohol, avoiding drugs (obviously “recreational” drugs, but also some pharmacy or prescription drugs – be sure to check with your doctor for advice on your existing prescriptions) and quitting smoking.
Choose a Healthy Alternative if You are Craving Unhealthy Foods During Pregnancy
Other changes that you may not have considered are cutting out caffeine and junk food from your diet.
There are many alternatives for caffeine such as drinking decaffeinated tea or coffee instead, some herbal teas or even hot chocolate as a treat. Likewise there are often many healthier alternatives to junk food.
You may experience some cravings; however try not to let these sway your healthy eating habits. For example, craving strawberry ice-cream… why not substitute for fresh strawberries with yogurt instead?
Before eating anything ask yourself is there any nutritional benefits to what you want to eat, if not then you are only adding to unnecessary weight gain.
Take Care of You and Your Baby During Exercise While Pregnant
During pregnancy you may wish to continue exercising. While you do have to take it much easier than what you may be used to, exercise is in fact very good for both you and the baby.
There are many exercises that you do need to avoid for a variety of reasons; your doctor or midwife will give you information on taking care of you and your baby during exercise.
Some information can be found in the menu on exercise during pregnancy. Once again, do take care and if you have any concerns talk to your doctor.
CHANGES TO BUB
At the end of the eighty week of gestation (or 10 weeks of pregnancy) your baby is now referred to as a fetus rather than an embryo. It has lost that tadpole appearance and is looking more and more human as the weeks go on. Your baby’s crown to rump length will be approximately 25 to 35 mms and weigh about 3 grams.
Nutrients pass from you into the placenta and the umbilical cord (one of the main reasons eating healthy food is very important) to feed your baby. As your baby grows it requires more and more nourishment to support the rapid growth of your little one.
