Tips To A Happy Pregnancy

There’s a lot to consider during pregnancy: diet, exercise, maternity leave and prepping the nursery. Don’t panic! Follow these expert tips through the trimesters and you’ll be just fine

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1st Trimester

NAP WHEN YOU NEED TO

Exhaustion during the first trimester is common, so don’t feel guilty about having a nap, says Michelle Walton, owner of Joburg-based Birthrite, which offers doula services and therapeutic reflexology for pregnancy, labour and post-partum. “Rest is one of your greatest allies now.”

DON’T OVERHEAT

“This is the main aim for exercise in the first trimester,” says Dr Etti Barsky, a sports physician and partner at Preggi Bellies South Africa, which runs aerobic and strength training programmes for pregnant and postnatal women in Joburg, Pretoria and Cape Town. “Always exercise in a well-ventilated area, wear clothes that don’t make you too sweaty, and drink water throughout your workout.”

GET A MATERNITY BRA

If your breasts are already heavier and beginning to feel tender, it’s time to go shopping. “Maternity bras allow for enlargement of your breasts, so you can use them for most of your pregnancy,” says Michelle.

DON’T EAT FOR TWO

“There’s no need to increase your intake yet,” warns Chrisna Brand, a dietician and owner of Leap Moms and Kidz, specialists in dietary and lifestyle advice for pregnant and breastfeeding women. “Go for a variety of healthy choices from all the food groups, and remember to take your folic acid.”

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