Category: Pregnancy

Moms are used to sleepless nights when their little ones finally come home. However, what many don’t know is that sleep deprivation is prevalent during pregnancy.

In fact, a National Sleep Foundation poll called Women and Sleep determined that 78% of the respondents reported poorer sleep during pregnancy than at any other time. Women also reported feeling more fatigued during their pregnancies, specifically during the first and third trimesters.

With the all-nighters coming in as early as the first trimester, you’ll want to do what you can to keep conditions ideal for a good night’s rest. That said, here are some common causes of sleep disturbances and simple measures to counter them.

First Trimester

Generally, expect fatigue to hit hard during the first trimester because of the increase in the hormone progesterone. Your body also tends to tire easily as it undergoes the gestation process, which means you’ll be sharing energy with your fetus. Below are other causes of sleep disturbances during the first trimester.

Frequent Urination

Your uterus pushes against your bladder as your baby grows, leading to an unfavorable increase in bathroom breaks.

Counter:

Avoid drinking fluids after 6 PM. Reducing liquid intake a few hours before bedtime reduces bathroom frequency; it also helps if you go to the bathroom before sleeping.

Body Aches

Body aches seem to be abundant during pregnancy. Your breasts will swell, and you will experience pelvic cramps, as well as other random body pains.

 Counter:

Pain medication is a no-no unless suggested by your doctor. However, try to exercise or engage in physical activity early in the day. Good workouts (as well as being physically tired!) promote deep sleep. Ask your doctor what type of exercise is allowed.

Nausea

Nausea during pregnancy isn’t time-sensitive, so expect it to hit even at ungodly hours – even during nighttime when you’re trying to sleep.

Counter:

Keep saltine crackers ready. Crackers have high starch content that helps absorb stomach acid.

Second Trimester

The second trimester is often defined as the easiest phase of pregnancy. However, while this trimester is when you’ll get the most sleep, you won’t quite be free of nighttime challenges yet.

Heartburn

As your baby grows, it now puts pressure on your stomach. This pushes the acid from the stomach up into the esophagus, which causes heartburn. Lying down makes it worse.

Counter:

Digestion takes longer during pregnancy, so speed up the process by staying upright after dinner. Sit up while watching TV or read a book for a few hours, while seated before lying down. Also, avoid spicy, fried, and acidic food, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, among others.

Leg Cramps

While the exact cause of leg cramps during pregnancy isn’t determined, they can very well cut into your sleep time.

Counter:

Avoid carbonated beverages as they weaken your ability to metabolize calcium, and an imbalance in calcium can lead to cramps. At the same time, go for calcium-rich food such as pasteurized dairy products and dark, leafy vegetables.

Nightmares

With much to consider, thoughts tend to race through pregnant women’s minds till the wee hours of the night. When they do find solace in slumber, the stress and anxiety can morph into vivid nightmares.

Counter:

Engage in calming techniques like listening to soothing music or reading a book. Feeling anxious is unavoidable, but there are exercises to help put you in an easier state of mind. Meditation and yoga are great exercises for this.

 Third Trimester

Expect nighttime turbulence to spike back up during the final trimester. You may wake up more times a night during this stretch compared to the first trimester. The following are the common sleep disturbances during the third trimester:

Back Pain

The majority of women experience back pain at this stage due to the extra weight they are carrying, as this is the point in pregnancy where they are at their largest.

Counter:

Lying on your back may induce snoring and cut off a little circulation to your unborn baby. To avoid this, simply sleep on your side and add pillows if it makes you more comfortable. If snoring persists, see a specialist and have your airflow monitored.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Some women experience Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), where they feel like insects are crawling on their legs. Those lacking in iron and folate are more susceptible to this syndrome.

Counter:

Evening walks and light leg massages help with RLS. Include lots of fortified grains and dark leafy greens in your diet to make up for the iron and folate deficiency.

Extra Tips for Better Sleep During Pregnancy

No matter which trimester you’re in, these healthy sleep habits may help you rest more comfortably:

• Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• If you can’t fall asleep after about 20 minutes, get out of bed and do a relaxing activity until you feel sleepy again.
• Take short daytime naps between 2 PM and 4 PM if needed. Limit naps to around 20 to 30 minutes so they don’t interfere with nighttime sleep.
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet to create a sleep-friendly environment.
• Use supportive pregnancy pillows to relieve pressure on your back, hips, and belly.
• Avoid caffeine later in the day and eat lighter meals close to bedtime whenever possible.

We hope this article has been helpful. For any product inquiries or if you need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our EQ support team.

References: 

References:

http://www.fitpregnancy.com/pregnancy/pregnancy-health/sleep-guide-pregnancy-challenges-and-solutions

http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/sleep-soundly-during-pregnancy

https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/pregnancy-and-sleep

A baby’s health is every expectant mother’s priority. This is why most mothers take good care of their bodies to ensure that their babies grow healthy. From hygiene to diet, every decision a mother makes affects not only her but her baby. Therefore, mothers should pay close attention to the food they are eating to ensure their babies are as healthy as possible.

Fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, and proteins are ideally the basic components of a person’s diet. However, there are some foods and beverages that mothers must not eat while pregnant. Take a look at some of them below:

1. Raw or undercooked food

Undercooked meat, unpasteurized eggs, and raw cookie dough should be avoided as these may contain bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can harm you and your baby. Raw food, like sushi and sashimi, is not advisable as it contains high percentages of mercury. Make sure that any meat you eat is thoroughly cooked. Salads, although raw, can be eaten as long as the vegetables are thoroughly washed to get rid of toxins such as toxoplasma, which can cause hearing loss and blindness. It is also recommended to be particular with the dressing on your salad as some brands of Caesar’s salad dressing contain undercooked eggs. Always read the label before purchasing.

2. Hotdogs, sausages, and other processed food

Processed food such as hotdogs, luncheon meats, and sausages may cause listeriosis, a condition that results in miscarriage, stillbirth, and other serious problems for you and your baby. Even the fluid from hotdog packaging can trigger the disease, says UCLA Doctor Michael Lu. Therefore, pregnant women should thoroughly wash their hands, utensils, and other surfaces that were in contact with processed food to reduce contamination.

3. Fresh juice and unpasteurized dairy products

Fruits, if unwashed before juicing, may contain toxoplasma from the soil that their peels were exposed to. When cut and juiced, these toxins are usually transfered to the juice. FDA recommends avoiding unpasteurized freshly-squeezed juices unless you personally prepare them. To be on the safe side, it is better to purchase pasteurized fruit juice available in supermarkets. Unpasteurized milk and dairy products, such as brie or feta cheese, may contain salmonella, listeria, E. coli, and other bacteria that can cause complications for your growing baby. To be on the safe side, read product labels to ensure they were pasteurized.

4. Fish with High Levels of Mercury

As much as possible, avoid fish with high levels of mercury such as swordfish, king mackerel, marlin, tuna, and lapu-lapu. Similarly, fish caught in local rivers and streams can contain pollutants and unwanted chemicals that may harm your growing baby. Eating contaminated fish can impede your baby’s development, particularly of the Central Nervous System. If you’re craving for seafood, then indulge in fish that have low levels of mercury, such as anchovies (dilis), salmon, tilapia, and catfish, which you can eat up to 12 ounces weekly.

5. Caffeinated Drinks

Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid caffeine. However, if you can’t avoid it, then try to keep your consumption to a maximum of 100mg daily. A recent study showed that expectant mothers who drink more than 200mg of caffeine per day have a high risk of miscarriage, while those who consume more than 100mg experience fetal growth restrictions. To be on the safe side, experts recommend consuming less than 100mg a day if you are unable to completely stave off caffeine from your diet.

Your choices impact not only you but also your growing baby. This is why you must pay extra care and attention when it comes to diet and lifestyle.

Choose a Healthy Pregnancy Diet for You and Your Baby

Eating a balanced diet during pregnancy is one of the best ways to support your baby’s healthy growth and development. Along with choosing nutritious foods, knowing which foods to avoid during pregnancy can help reduce unnecessary health risks for both you and your baby.

If you’re unsure whether a particular food or drink is safe during pregnancy, consult your obstetrician or healthcare provider before including it in your diet.

Your pregnancy journey doesn’t end here. Continue exploring our blogs for more practical tips and helpful guides. If you have any product-related questions, our EQ Support team is just a message away.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/foodstoavoidwhenyourepregnant

http://www.webmd.com/baby/ss/slideshowwhatnottoeatwhenpregnant

http://www.babycenter.com/0_foodsandbeveragestoavoidduringpregnancy_10348544.bc?showAll=true

http://www.livestrong.com/article/513790-can-pregnant-women-eat-caeser-salads/

http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/pasteurized_or_unpasteurized_juice_whats_the_difference

http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/HealthEducators/ucm082417.htm

http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodborneIllnessContaminants/PeopleAtRisk/ucm083327.htm

http://www.raisehealthyeaters.com/foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy/

Pregnancy and the science of human development have always fascinated people. The process of how a baby develops inside a mother’s womb and how they seemingly interact with the world around them are topics people wonder about. One of the most common questions expectant parents ask is: do babies dream in the womb? Many people also wonder if babies can hear the world around them, or if they sleep in the womb. If they do, do they dream, and what do they dream about?

It is presumed that babies are born without any knowledge of the outside world and that a baby’s learning process about the world only begins the moment they’re born. However, countless studies through the years have uncovered that a baby’s learning process begins before they are born.

Babies can hear the world around them

The baby is exposed to a myriad of noise despite being inside the uterus. It’s not exactly quiet in there. Aside from the noise of the world around the mother, the baby also hears sounds that their mother’s body makes, such as her heartbeat and voice.

Research has uncovered that of all these sounds, the baby is most attached to their mother’s voice. The heart rate of a fetus slows down every time they hear their mother’s voice, which is why babies recognize their mother’s voice as early as when they are born.

However, research suggests that babies don’t show a preference towards their father’s and siblings’ voices in the same way they do towards their mother’s. According to Developmental Psychologist Dr. Janet DiPietro, this might be because the mother’s voice is communicated in two ways: ambient sounds through the abdomen and internally through the vibration of her vocal cords. External voices are merely heard as ambient sounds.

Babies do sleep inside the womb

Babies spend most of their time asleep inside the womb, as early as seven months into the pregnancy. At 32 weeks old, fetuses spend 90-95% of their time inside the mother’s womb fast asleep.

The baby’s brain cycles between the quiet, resting state of non-REM sleep and frenzied rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep is a period of sleep where most humans experience dreams. Scientists believe that there is a chance that babies also dream while in a state of REM sleep inside the womb.

A team of German scientists studied how sheep fetuses, which are in some ways similar to human fetuses, enter a dream-like state weeks before REM movements are detected. However, performing the same experiment on live human fetuses is impossible, so similar assumptions cannot be confirmed for humans. The only confirmed fact about developing babies is that they enter a state of REM sleep, similar to the dreaming state of adults.

What do babies dream about in the womb?

It is assumed that most people dream about the things they know. Applying this logic to babies, it can be assumed that fetuses only dream about the things that they already know, like the sounds they hear while still inside the womb.

The world of dreams is ambiguous. To this day, scientists are still studying this field of the human experience. Dreaming may be common for most, but it is something unknown for babies. It would be interesting to pursue further studies about this phenomenon among unborn children.

We hope this article has been helpful. For any product inquiries or if you need further assistance, our EQ support team is here to help. Feel free to reach out anytime.

After months of preparation, changes, and anticipation, the big day is finally here: it’s Labor Day! The big day frequently comes as a surprise to most people, so everything you need for the hospital stay should be ready before your expected date. This way, all you have to do once “Labor Day” comes is grab your things and rush to the hospital.

Packing for the hospital stay is essential as labor sometimes takes 12 hours or longer. Also, it can take a few days before you and your baby are discharged, so it will be tricky for your husband to leave your side just to get some much-needed essentials.

If you are clueless about what to pack, here’s a handy guide to what must be in your birthing bag.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

Your hospital bag should contain everything you’ll need to stay comfortable throughout labor, delivery, and recovery.

• Comfortable clothes – Since labor lasts for several hours, make sure you pack comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting soiled. Bring a comfortable t-shirt or nightshirt, and don’t forget to pack socks as the temperature in the hospital can get cold.
• Hair tie – Having long hair can be messy during labor and may make you feel uncomfortable, or it may stick to your face, especially if you’re sweating! Pack a hairband, hair clip, or a hair tie to keep your locks in place.
• Nursing and maternity bras – Bring at least two or three nursing bras with you to prepare for breastfeeding. Ensure that you’re wearing a comfortable maternity bra as your breasts can become swollen after the first breastfeeding.
• Toiletries – Pack your own toiletries since your hospital stay may last for at least two to three days. Although most hospitals give out a toiletry pack upon admission, bring your own deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and other essentials, just in case. Having these familiar items will also help in making you feel comfortable.
• A going home outfit – Finally, pack a comfortable outfit for the journey home. Use some of your maternity dresses, as your stomach does not immediately shrink back to its old size right after childbirth.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Just like you, your baby will also have their needs once they come out. Aside from your birthing bag, pack your baby’s things in a separate bag. Here is a list of the items you should pack:

• Infant clothes – Your baby needs warm clothes for the hospital stay and the journey home. Be sure to pack some of the infant clothes you bought for them.
• Diapers – Your baby can go through as many as 12 diapers in a day. You need to pack more in case your hospital stay goes on longer.
• Soft blanket, socks, and a bonnet – Your baby may feel cold at times, so be sure to pack some soft blankets, socks, and a bonnet for them.
• Bibs – These are handy for cleaning any milk your baby may cough up during feeding.
• Baby bottles – There are instances when your baby has to feed from the bottle this early. Keep a bottle or two in your bag just in case you need it.
• Soft towels – These will be handy when your baby gets dirty and needs to be cleaned. Pack some wet wipes as well.

Pack Your Hospital Bag Before Your Due Date

Labor day can go by in a blur. With all the hurrying and worrying, it’s best to have everything laid out and ready to avoid adding another worry to the list. Having your bags ready weeks before your expected date lessens your worries and helps direct your concentration entirely on delivering your baby safely.

Want to learn more? Explore our other blogs for more helpful tips and guides as you prepare for the big day. If you have any questions about our products or need assistance, our EQ Support team is always ready to help.

 

Sources:

http://www.babycentre.co.uk/what-to-pack-in-your-hospital-bag

http://www.thebump.com/a/checklist-packing-a-hospital-bag

http://maternityinstitute.com/natural-childbirth-must-haves/

Some pregnant women are wary of overexerting themselves and would rather rest than exercise. While getting enough rest is important, safe exercise during pregnancy also plays a significant role in preparing your body for childbirth.

Proper exercise increases your strength, flexibility, and endurance. It does wonders for your mood, relieves body aches, and improves sleep. Also, maintaining a workout routine makes getting back to your pre-pregnancy body easier.

“You need to be physically active during pregnancy. It has terrific benefits that are associated with a better pregnancy outcome and even shorter labor. It’s a win-win for baby and for mom,” says high-risk pregnancy expert Laura Riley, MD, spokeswoman for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and author of Pregnancy: You and Your Baby. ACOG recommends pregnant moms spend at least 30 minutes doing moderate-intensity exercises at least 3 times a week.

Safe Pregnancy Exercises to Try

It’s time to get physical! Here are 5 heart-pumping exercises that are safe for both you and your unborn child.

1. Swimming

Swimming is one of the best and safest exercises for pregnant women. Aside from working out your arms and legs, swimming reduces swelling and pain in your back and joints. It also helps with posture as the buoyancy allows you to easily maintain an upright position.

2. Tailor Sitting

This is a great way to strengthen and stretch your back, thigh, and pelvic muscles. Sit on the floor with your back straight and keep the soles of your feet pressed together. From there, slowly push your knees toward the ground using your elbows to stretch your inner thighs. Hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds and make 10 repetitions.

This exercise keeps your pelvic joints flexible and improves blood circulation to your lower body, both of which ease delivery.

3. Kegel Exercises

This exercise also targets your pelvic floor muscles. As these muscles support pelvic organs (uterus, bladder, and bowels), toning them can reduce late pregnancy problems like hemorrhoids.

While urinating, try to stop midstream without using your abdominal, buttock, or thigh muscles. The vaginal muscle that you can feel contracting is your pelvic muscle. Contract this muscle and hold for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times, relaxing in between repetitions.

4. Squatting

Squatting opens the pelvic outlet, giving you – or rather, your little one – up to an extra 1/2-inch to descend during labor.

With your feet apart, keep your back straight against a wall, and slowly slide down to a full squat position with your thighs parallel to the floor. Hold this position for 10 seconds and slowly rise to your original position. Make 10 repetitions.

5. Pelvic Tilt

This exercise strengthens your abdominal muscles and improves your back flexibility, reducing back pain during pregnancy and labor.

For this exercise, you are to go down on all fours – hands and knees, while keeping your head aligned with your back. From this position, pull in your tummy and arch your back towards the ceiling, and hold for 10 seconds. Then, relax your tummy, move back into the original position, and repeat 10 times.

Preparing Your Body for Childbirth

These exercises can benefit you with minimal effort without needing any equipment. However, while exercising helps prepare you physically for the big day, you have to be prepared mentally by getting to know your hospital and having a plan. This helps keep your mind at ease as you approach your due date.

Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any medical concerns.

We hope you found this guide helpful. If you have any questions about our products or need additional assistance, our EQ support team is always ready to help.

References:

http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/exercise-during-pregnancy-myth-vs-fact

http://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/preparing-for-labor/exercises-to-help-you-prepare-for-childbirth/

http://www.babycenter.com/0_the-best-kinds-of-exercise-for-pregnancy_7880.bc

The third trimester of pregnancy is the most critical phase of pregnancy. This is when your baby’s development inside the womb enters its final stages, and your body prepares for labor and your baby’s arrival.

As a first-time mother, you might be wondering if you’ve done everything you need to prepare. You’ve gone through the cravings, morning sickness, and countless prenatal checkups, and now you may be asking yourself if there are any final preparations before your little one arrives.

How to Prepare During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Here are some important things you can do during your third trimester to help you prepare for labor and welcome your baby with confidence.

Avoid Overworking Yourself

The second trimester might have given you a lot of energy, but the same cannot be said for the final trimester. Your baby will still grow in size from about 2 ½ lbs. to at least 6-9 lbs. Carrying your baby’s weight around can deplete most of your energy. This is why doctors strongly recommend avoiding anything that can stress or overwork you.

Standing for long periods of time can put pressure on your feet and make your ankles swell. Sit down and prop your legs on top of a chair to reduce the swelling.

Another common situation for pregnant women is incessant back pain because of your expanding belly. To relieve the pain, sit down every few minutes, try an underbelly support garment and sleep on your side.

Perform Pregnancy-Safe Exercises

In order to prepare your body for labor, try some small exercises for expectant mothers. One example of an exercise that’s perfect for expectant mothers is swimming.

When people are in the water, they weigh one-tenth of their regular weight on land. This means you will weigh less, and the strain on your legs will be minimal.

Prenatal yoga is another option that expectant mothers can look into. Prenatal yoga can develop flexibility that will help reduce the pain in labor for mothers.

Before starting any exercise routine, consult your healthcare provider to make sure it is safe for your pregnancy. Always avoid overexerting yourself.

Prepare for Labor

As the final weeks of your pregnancy approach, you and your partner should start preparing for labor.

First, know which hospital or clinic you are going to give birth in. Normally, mothers choose the hospital nearest their home where their doctor is also practicing. This ensures that they will have their doctor when they give birth, and they will know where to go once their water breaks and they are ready to give birth.

Second, pack a bag of clothes and store them nearby so that you’re ready to go anytime that you go into labor.

Third, you should be ready with the things your baby will need, such as diapers, clothes, a crib, and so on. This way, you will have everything you need for the baby when you get back from the hospital.

Read Up on Breastfeeding

Part of being a mother is breastfeeding. As your pregnancy progresses, your body also prepares your breasts to breastfeed your baby. There are several exercises that you can try to get your body ready for breastfeeding. You can also join breastfeeding if you have zero idea on how to breastfeed. If you want to learn more about breastfeeding, you can read about it here.

Choose a Pediatrician

With weeks left before your baby comes, check out your local pediatricians and decide who among them will be your baby’s doctor. This is a decision you have to make beforehand to make sure that your baby’s pediatrician is someone you can trust and run to in times of emergency.

Consider factors such as the clinic’s location, consultation fees, office hours, and the services they offer when making your decision.

Getting Ready for Your Baby’s Arrival

The third trimester is the phase marked by countless preparations for the coming of the family’s newest member. It is at this phase that your baby undergoes the most changes to prepare itself for the world outside.

A lot of complications can happen during childbirth. This is why it’s really important to be prepared for the baby’s needs this early to avoid worrying about it when you go into labor.

Sources:

http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/exercises-for-pregnant-women

http://www.parenting.com/article/thirdtrimestersymptoms

http://www.babycenter.com/0_the-ultimate-pregnancy-to-do-list-third-trimester_10341209.bc?

http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/thirdtrimesterofpregnancy?page=2

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthylifestyle/pregnancyweekbyweek/indepth/pregnancy/art20046767?p=1

Pregnancy is both a wonderful and trying time in a mother’s life. The joy of bringing a new member into the family is something that every couple looks forward to. Yet the first trimester is also marked by nervous waiting, endless morning sickness, and an emotional roller coaster ride for the mother. Thankfully, most things get better when the second trimester comes.

The second trimester, which happens from week 13 to week 27 of the pregnancy, is popularly known as the ‘honeymoon’ period. Unlike the rollercoaster that was the first trimester, this is the phase where morning sickness stops, emotions stabilize, and the mother’s sex drive returns. It’s also marked by several memorable ‘wows’ in every expectant mother’s life.

Second Trimester Wows: Milestones to Look Forward To

The second trimester brings many exciting milestones that make pregnancy even more memorable. Here are some of the “wows” you can look forward to during this stage.

Your Baby’s Gender May Be Revealed

The baby’s gender can now be identified. According to experts, the baby’s gender may be identified by your doctor during the second trimester. During a prenatal checkup, the doctor examines the baby through ultrasound, checks the baby’s health, and identifies the baby’s gender if the baby’s position allows it.

During your checkups, make sure to take your partner with you as this is the first time you can see your baby. This is one precious moment that you would not want him to miss.

Your Baby Bump Becomes More Noticeable

Take out your wallets, ladies, as it’s time to go shopping for maternity clothes! At this stage of pregnancy, your body starts showing visible changes such as:

• Breast Enlargement – This is your body’s way of preparing you for breastfeeding. Make sure you are wearing a good support bra. There are instances when going up a bra size may be necessary.
• Baby Bumps – By the second trimester, your baby bump is more visible as you gain weight over the next few weeks. In a healthy pregnancy, you usually gain around 25 to 35 pounds. Take note that at this stage of the pregnancy, most women need an extra 300 to 500 calories a day to keep the baby healthy.

You’ll Feel Your Baby Move for the First Time

One of the best moments of being a parent is feeling your baby move inside you for the first time.

Around the 18th week of pregnancy, your baby has developed fingers and is roughly the size of a chicken breast. By week 21, you may begin to feel gentle jabs and kicks as your baby adjusts their position inside the uterus. This is one moment that every mom, first-time or otherwise, always remembers as one of the happiest memories of pregnancy.

Unfortunately, pregnancy is not always so peachy. Here’s the other side of the coin.

What ‘Woes’ to Expect When You’re Expecting

As smooth as your pregnancy may be, there are a few notable ‘woes’ you may face as you move into the second trimester. Here are some of them:

Stretch Marks, Varicose Veins, and Lower Back Pain

As the baby inside you grows, your body has to stretch to accommodate your developing little one. Stretch marks start to appear across your belly and may leave itchy lines on your skin. Applying lotion may help relieve the itchiness. Varicose veins and lower back pain may also develop as your body adjusts to carrying additional weight.

Constipation and Heartburn

You may experience mild constipation and heartburn during the second trimester. Don’t worry—this is simply an effect of your body producing the hormone progesterone, which relaxes your digestive muscles and can contribute to acid reflux. Instead of eating large meals, try eating smaller, more frequent meals and increase your fiber intake to help reduce constipation.

Making the Most of Your Second Trimester

Unlike the roller coaster that was the first trimester, the second trimester may be the easiest period of pregnancy for many mothers. It is also the stage when you’ll notice some of the biggest physical changes as your baby continues to grow. Continue attending your prenatal checkups, eat a balanced diet, and take care of your body to support your baby’s healthy development.

By knowing what to expect when you’re expecting, you’re ensuring that you won’t just be a good mom, but the best one.

Want to learn more about what comes after the second trimester? Check out our guide to the third and final trimester of pregnancy to learn what to expect next. Also, if you have any questions about our products or need additional guidance, our EQ Support team is here to help.

You wait with bated breath for a few minutes as you stare at the pregnancy test kit. A few seconds more and you see two lines appear. It’s confirmed, you’re expecting! Congratulations, mommy!

Finding out you’re pregnant is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it’s completely normal to feel a mix of joy, anticipation, and uncertainty. Your first trimester of pregnancy is filled with many physical and emotional changes, especially if you’re a first-time mom.

It’s going to be an interesting next few months. From here on, everything is new and can get overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know to prepare for your first trimester.

Common First Trimester Symptoms

There will be countless changes in your body during the first trimester of pregnancy. Some of them may seem alarming, but many first trimester symptoms are completely normal. Here are some of the most common changes you may experience during early pregnancy:

Bleeding

In an article on Parents.com, Dr. Stephenson-Famy, M.D., Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist of the University of Washington, says that 24 to 40% of women experience bleeding or spotting. This means that the fertilized embryo has been implanted in the uterus. However, if you experience abdominal cramping or if light spotting turns into significant bleeding, immediately call your doctor.

Discharge

Some white discharge or leucorrhea is rather common and normal early on in your pregnancy. However, inform your doctor if the discharge is green or yellow, comes in an alarming amount, or smells suspicious.

Frequent Urination

Your bladder is subjected to increasing pressure as your baby grows. Do not make holding it in a habit! Doing so can cause a urinary tract infection, not to mention make you feel uncomfortable! Also, as you’ll be going to the bathroom more frequently, remember to stay hydrated.

Nausea

Morning sickness is experienced by 85% of pregnant women, and it typically lasts throughout the entire first trimester. The intensity of morning sickness affects women differently, as some experience mild variations while others suffer debilitating forms of it. To reduce morning sickness, try eating high-protein foods like nuts (such as almonds and pistachios) or meat, and drink lots of water and fruit juices without pulp, such as apple, cranberry, or grape.

Breast Tenderness

Breast soreness is triggered by hormonal changes as your body prepares for breastfeeding. Most women go up one bra size during this period.

Constipation

Your body produces higher levels of the hormone progesterone, which causes food to travel slower through your intestines. For this, you’ll want to eat foods that are rich in fiber like corn, beans, whole wheat bread, and brown rice, and drink plenty of fluids like pear and prune juice besides water to relieve constipation.

Fatigue

Your body supports two lives now, so it will be working twice as hard. This will take its toll on you, so make sure to get plenty of rest and enough iron in your system. Low levels can lead to anemia, resulting in pallor and excess fatigue.

Heartburn

The progesterone influx will cause the muscles in your lower esophagus that keep food and acids down, To avoid it, eat more frequent meals in smaller portions throughout the day. However, avoid greasy, spicy, or acidic foods. Lying down right after meals should also be avoided.

Weight Gain

Expect to gain anywhere from 3-6 pounds during your first trimester. Depending on whether you started the pregnancy under or overweight, your doctor may recommend adjusting your weight up or down.

Food Cravings and Aversions

Pregnancy can make you crave certain foods and be repelled by others. Satisfying your craving is generally fine, as long as you’re eating healthy. By this, you have to watch out for pica, an eating disorder that causes you to gain an appetite for non-food items such as clay, drywall, paint, and metal, among others. If you have a sudden craving for non-food items, immediately talk to your doctor.

Mood Swings

With ever-changing hormones and increased fatigue, there’s no avoiding becoming too emotional. Happy, depressed, irritable, anxious – you’ll experience all these and more. Not to worry, everyone around you will be very understanding, as pregnancy tends to wreak havoc on a woman’s mental state.

First Trimester Pregnancy Tips

Having enumerated the most common changes in your first trimester, here are more tips to consider so you can have a healthy pregnancy.

Say Yes To	Say No To
Prenatal vitamins	Alcoholic beverages and nicotine
Kegel exercises	Caffeine
Fruits, vegetables, low-fat forms of protein, and fiber	Raw and smoked seafood
Lots of water	Unpasteurized milk and dairy products

Remember to attend your regular prenatal checkups and follow your doctor’s advice throughout your pregnancy. Every pregnancy is different, so your healthcare provider can recommend what’s best for you and your baby.

Preparing for a Healthy First Trimester

It’s hard to truly prepare for things you’ve never experienced before, but know that most of these discomforts will go away as your pregnancy progresses, and knowing what to expect can and will go a long way.

So what do we take away from this, mommies-to-be? Your first three months may prove to be difficult, but don’t worry, things will get better. Don’t forget that your EQ family is here for you.

We hope this guide has made your first trimester a little easier. Continue your pregnancy journey by reading our guide for the second trimester, where you’ll find more helpful information and practical tips. If you have any questions about our products, don’t hesitate to reach out to our EQ Support team.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/first-trimester-of-pregnancy?page=3

http://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/first-trimester#StayingHealthy5

http://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/first-trimester#StayingHealthy5