Prenatal care is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of complications for both you and your little one. Prenatal care is the care you receive while you are pregnant. The first step for many moms is to schedule that first doctor’s appointment! The earlier you start these appointments the better.
Pregnancy is an exciting time, but COVID-19 restrictions and concerns can lead to missed appointments, additional stress, anxiety and depression. Even during COVID-19, make sure to keep prenatal and postpartum appointments with your healthcare provider. They are critical to a healthy pregnancy for both mom and baby.
Your care provider can help you BOTH during pregnancy and after the delivery of your new bundle of joy. This care includes answering your questions about getting healthy foods, drinking enough water, and recovering from the birthing process. You can talk to your doctor about any concerns you have as you adjust to life with your new baby! Don’t just make these appointments; make sure you’re keeping every appointment as well.
Taking Care of Your Health During Pregnancy
There are many ways that someone can become a mom. Whatever path led you to motherhood, one thing remains constant… Life changes when you become a mom! While you can never prepare for all the surprises motherhood throws at you, you can use these resources to help you along the journey.
Helping you prepare for a healthy pregnancy
At 8 weeks (or as soon as you know you’re pregnant), schedule that first prenatal appointment. Not only can your provider help you catch any potential complications, he/she can also connect you with other resources like diapers and healthy food programs.
Get support for you and your baby from the start
You may be thinking of all the overwhelming joy you will feel when you hold your baby for the first time. While it is a joy-filled time, becoming a mother is also one of the hardest things you will ever do. It is so, so important to have all the support you can get. Make sure your support team includes a doctor or nurse. It is essential to keep up with doctor appointments before and after your baby is born, even during COVID-19. Read one mom’s story of becoming a first-time parent during the pandemic HERE.
Preparing for a new baby
Ever heard of the “nesting period” of pregnancy? It’s that primal instinct to prepare everything you possibly can for the baby to arrive. This again brings both excitement and a ton of stress to the expectant mom. It’s totally natural. And, it’s also why there are federal and state programs you can turn to for help in reducing some of the things that cause those stressful feelings. These programs may be able to help you get the support and supplies you need for your new baby.
Self-care tips for expecting and new moms
Self-care starts with knowing what resources may be available to you during and after your pregnancy. Follow this list of helpful tips to help keep tabs on your health:
- Take Prenatal Vitamins
- Manage Substance Use
- Manage Morning Sickness
- Keep Moving
- Manage Stress
- Check in with Your Care Provider
- Stay Connected to Others
- Shower and Dress Daily
- Drink Enough Water
- Relax When Baby Naps
Get the LMC Pregnancy & Infant Support guide HERE.
Mental health during pregnancy
Expecting a new baby may make you feel excited but also nervous. You may have worries about your baby. You may be feeling stressed or anxious. You might have questions about handling substance use. Your provider may be able to help with these concerns. If you’re struggling with your mental health, know that you are not alone. Many moms experience this while pregnant or after becoming a mother.
