7 Tips to Care for Your Body During and After Pregnancy

Your body's processes behind the scenes of your pregnancy require careful attention. These are seven tips to keep your body healthy during and after pregnancy.

1. Focus on Getting Enough Rest

New parents don't expect to get much uninterrupted sleep, so stock up on it while you can before your baby is born. Sleep helps the body mend and contributes to helping the baby develop. After you have given birth, rest will be just as important so you can be alert to your baby's needs. Rest when your baby rests since an ordinary sleep schedule is not usually possible with a newborn.

2. Nourish Yourself

During pregnancy, what you eat directly affects the growth of your baby. Avoid alcohol and make sure to hydrate regularly. Once your baby is born, you will need a healthy diet to restore your strength. You have given so much of your physical resources to your child and now your body needs nutrition in order to recover.

3. Return to Movement

While you are carrying your baby, your ability to participate in physical exercise is reduced. Depending on the circumstances around the birth, you may need to recover from surgery before getting back into your fitness regime. Take it slowly and don't push your limits before your body is ready.

4. Let Others Do the Heavy Lifting

Carrying a baby is a constantly strenuous task for the duration of pregnancy. Don't add to your burden by lifting heavy objects. This can strain your spine and core muscles which are already enduring the accommodation of your baby. Ask other people to lift heavy objects for you so that you and your baby are safe. Even after giving birth, you may find it best to only lift light objects until your body has fully recovered.

5. Revitalise Your Hair

You may have felt as if your hair suddenly became fuller and shinier during pregnancy, only for it to start shedding after giving birth. Although it's normal, this can still be distressing. Hair loss is a fairly common symptom post-pregnancy. This doesn't mean you can't address the problem. Visit hshairclinic.co.uk to learn more about how you can restore your hair. You don't need to be embarrassed by this normal side effect of pregnancy. There are ways to combat hair loss for permanent results.

6. Protect Your Skin

Skin can be unpredictable during and after pregnancy. Some people experience more dryness or oiliness while others enjoy a fresh glow. Keep your skincare routine simple by cleansing, toning, moisturising and exfoliating. You may notice stretch marks on your skin as the baby grows and your body adjusts. Apply moisturising oils to the marks in order to maintain the elasticity of the skin.

7. Don't Forget Your Teeth

Since growing a baby for nine months is so taxing on the body, it should come as no surprise that your teeth and gums are also affected. Maintain good oral health to protect your teeth and eat plenty of calcium to keep them strong.

Having a baby is one of the most life-changing occasions. Use these tips to look after your body throughout this amazing journey.