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At Spry, we have a deep appreciation for mothers and their babies. Having initially developed our technology to be used in the NICU to help premature babies develop normally outside of the comfort of their mother’s womb, we understand the importance of a healthy mom and baby.

Throughout your pregnancy it is crucial to make health and wellness is a top priority. There are so many do’s and don’ts regarding pregnancy and it may be hard to keep up with what you should and shouldn’t be doing. We hope this guide will help you set things straight.

Taking care of yourself during, before, and after pregnancy isn’t only going to benefit you, but also the baby. Treat yourself every once in a while with things that are going to make you feel happy. Do this and stick to the basics to ensure a healthy lifestyle for you and your newborn.

The basics:

The most obvious- don’t smoke or be near second-hand smoke. Don’t drink and get your rest.

Food

Sensible, balanced meals are very important to consider, even when eating for two. Check with your doctor to find out how much weight gain during pregnancy is healthy for you.This doesn’t mean eating twice as much; pay closer attention to the protein, iron, calcium and folic acid that you’re consuming. Refer to http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy/ to get familiar with the foods you should avoid while pregnant. Diet, combined with regular physical fitness, is still the best recipe for proper health.

Exercise

Regardless if you’re pregnant or not, exercise is very important. However, during pregnancy, there is a limit to “how much is too much.” Low impact aerobics are encouraged versus high impact. Do not let your heart rate exceed 140 beats per minute.Get doctors approval before doing anything more strenuous than that. Working out while pregnant may be difficult but there are so many benefits that come from being fit at this time of your life. Exercise during pregnancy will reduce stress, increase stamina for labor, improve energy levels, improve posture and strength, along with, reducing backaches.

Educate

Be aware of what is going on inside of your body and what is going to occur once you go into labor. Even if this isn’t your first baby, educated yourself on how to be the best mom. Attend childbirth classes and ask questions here! Voice concerns. It’ll make you less stressed and more prepared for delivery. You’ll never be looked down upon for trying to be the best caregiver. This is also a perfect time to understand any medical problems your family has experiences in the past. Get in touch with your doctor and report any family incidences you may have.

Remember: Your body is going to be changing constantly during these 9 months. Some changes that your body will experience results from the production of the hormone, Relaxin. During pregnancy, your body produces 10 times the normal amount of the Relaxin hormone. This plays a very important role in preparing your body to give birth. It prepares the uterus for conception by softening a women’s bones so her skeleton can accommodate a growing baby. The over-production of Relaxin when pregnant unfortunately has some negative side effects. For instance, the hormone Relaxin, affects the stability of your joints, making you feel extremely tender. Common side effects are back pain and pelvic pain. So, pregnant women should take extra care of their posture during pregnancy, especially during the first and the third trimesters, when Relaxin is at its peak in the body. Check out how the Spry Recovery pillow helps pregnant women redistribute pressure on your most uncomfortable spots. And remember, eat well, exercise and educate yourself so when the time comes, you’re feeling your best.

Now on to the fun stuff– Your pregnant body is working hard. I mean, it’s not easy growing a human being! Treat yourself every once in a while, you deserve it! “Me-time” and relaxation is good for both you and your developing baby. Here are a few other ways to reduce stress and pamper yourself.

Get A Massage

With the aches, pains, and stresses of pregnancy, you’re going to need a massage. Let your masseuse know when booking your appointment, that you’re pregnant. They will make it their mission to give you a safe and super relaxing session.

Go Shoe Shopping

Pregnancy is the perfect excuse to buy shoes. Expect your feet to grow while your baby does. During this time, your feet are going to feel a lot more pressure, causing pain throughout your body. Go and buy comfortable, non-restricting (and cute, of course) shoes. Don’t be surprised if your shoe size is bigger than before, this is normal during pregnancy.

Spoil Yourself With A Pedicure

You may not be able to even see your toes, but nothing will help melt away those aches and pains like a little TLC for your aching, swollen feet.

Lastly, Give Yourself A Break

Generally, women stress over the restrictions that come with pregnancy. Not only is this stress bad for you and the baby, but there is simply no need for this. Give yourself a break! Take it easy on yourself and know that it’s okay to not cook or clean during this period. Creating a person is hard enough work for the day, so take a bath, sit down, relax,  and allow someone else to pick up the slack for a while.