Do’s and Don’ts of Pregnancy

While having a baby is the most natural thing in the world, our Western culture had essentially turned it into a multi-million dollar “disease” industry, convincing women that natural is no longer possible. What used to be a simple process is now complicated by products and services, options and choices. Before you make what are some of the most important decisions of your life, make sure you gather all the information you can.—Do practice wellness, rather than “fadness”:Be sure to carefully consider every option presented to you during your pregnancy.—Don’t get overscheduled: Stress can have a negative impact on your pregnancy, causing health problems such as hypertension.—Don’t be sedentary: Excessive weight gain during pregnancy is linked to labor difficulties and gestational diabetes.—Do a combination of exercises: Consistent exercise such as walking, water aerobics, prenatal yoga, or riding a recumbent stationary bicycle will increase your heart rate, which will increase your blood flow.—Don’t forget the importance of good nutrition: Diet plays an important role during pregnancy. Eating whole, living foods begins by understanding the reality that if it’s in a box, a can or package, there’s a good chance it’s been nutritionally compromised.—Do consider the source of your prenatal vitamins: Good prenatal vitamins will have everything your body needs to help your baby develop.—Do reduce your caffeine intake: research suggests that caffeine can cause miscarriages if you’re already pregnant and, can interfere with conception if your not already pregnant.—Don’t agree to a “routine” ultrasound: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends ultrasound examinations only be performed for specific reasons, but many health care professionals include at least one ultrasound at 18-20 weeks as part of routine care.—Don’t take medications unless absolutely necessary: Studies show that many drugs will cross the placenta and negatively affect your baby.—Don’t take antidepressants:—Do consider having a doula:To Your Health, March 2010, Claudia Anrig D.C.