There’s a bun in the oven! Congratulations! You probably can’t wait to hold your bundle of joy in your arms!

However, for the next few months, you need to do everything you can to carry your pregnancy safely to term. Knowing what to do and what not to do will go a long way in helping you figure out how to take care of your body properly over this time. To help you out, here is a list of the most important dos and don’ts for a safer pregnancy.

The Dos

1.Do Eat A Healthy Diet

A healthy diet includes the right balance of all the nutrients your baby needs. It should include fruits and vegetables, starchy foods (especially high fiber choices), and protein. Wherever possible, go for organic foods from local sources. 

2.Do Take Your Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are supplements that are loaded with essential minerals like calcium, iron, and folic acid that pregnant women need in higher doses. They also play an important role in the healthy development of your baby. Therefore, you absolutely have to take them. 

3.Do Exercise Regularly

Pregnancy comes with several health issues that can be prevented or minimized through exercise. Some of these issues include excessive weight gain, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, lower back pain, varicose veins, and shortness of breath. 

4.Do Get Your Screenings

First and second-trimester screenings will help confirm the health of your pregnancy. Ultrasounds can also detect markers that suggest fetal abnormalities.  

5.Do Get Plenty Of Rest

Pregnancy is a demanding journey. You need all the rest you can get. Set an early bedtime right from the start and stick to it. You will often feel fatigued in the course of the day. When you do, take a nap when you can.

6.Do Visit Your Dentist

Because of the changes in hormonal levels, some women develop dental issues such as bleeding gums. If left untreated, this can turn into periodontal disease, which can lead to low birth weight and premature delivery. Therefore, try to get at least one dental checkup in the course of your pregnancy. 

7.Do Budget For Baby Gear

Don’t spend all your money on cute baby clothes!

Create a budget that accounts for your maternity clothes, medical bills, prenatal vitamins, diapers, strollers, baby food, and baby clothes. You should also set aside an emergency fund for supplies in case you or your little one gets sick. 

The Don’ts

1.Don’t “Eat For Two”

“Eating for two” is the fastest way to gain too much weight in your pregnancy. While you do need some extra calories in your second and third trimester, you only need to eat a healthy diet in your first trimester and you’ll be fine. Eat when hungry and only eat until you are sated. Do not overeat! 

2.Don’t Drink Too Much Caffeine

Caffeine has been shown to increase your baby’s heart rate. Do not drink more than 200 milligrams a day.

3.Don’t Drink Alcohol

Avoid alcohol when pregnant as it can lead to behavioral problems, learning disabilities, and delayed growth, among other issues in your baby. 

4.Don’t Smoke

Smoking puts you at higher risk of miscarriage. If you carry your baby to term, they become more likely to be born with birth defects. 

5.Don’t Clean The Cat’s Litter Box

Cat litter contains a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii that is dangerous to pregnant women and can lead to pregnancy complications. 

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the key to a safe and healthy pregnancy is eating healthy, exercising, taking care of yourself, hydrating, and getting lots of rest. That’s all it takes!