If you have gained more weight then you planned (or more than your doctor deems healthy) you may need to lose weight. It is important to take great caution when attempting to lose weight while pregnant to ensure that your weight loss does not negatively affect your baby.
Consider attempting to get 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. [6] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Walking, aerobics, and swimming are all great low-impact activities that you may want to try during your pregnancy. These activities will help you stay in shape and feel beautiful. Always confer with your doctor before starting a workout routine when pregnant. There are certain situations, such as if you have pregnancy-related high blood pressure, in which your doctor may advise you not to exercise. [7] X Trustworthy Source March of Dimes Nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of mothers and babies. Go to source
It is recommended that pregnant women drink about 10 cups (or 2. 3 liters) of fluids daily. [10] X Trustworthy Source American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Professional association of OB/GYNs focused on education and public outreat initiatives Go to source Drinking water for the majority of this requirement will help you avoid the sugars present in fruit drinks and sodas.
If you do not have the budget to purchase maternity clothing, consider asking a friend who has had a child if she has anything you might borrow for the remainder of your pregnancy. In addition, consignment clothing stores can be a great place to find maternity wear for affordable prices. Think about finding “staples”- clothes that can be worn and re-worn and apply to many situations. If you purchase a pair of jeans, some leggings, tank tops, and cardigans, you will find yourself able to wear these pieces over and over again. Choose clothes in solid color, which look more sophisticated and are wearable in many different situations! Darker colors can often help you appear slimmer, too.
Dresses and long skirts are great because you don’t have to worry about anything riding up as you’re walking. [13] X Expert Source Chloée Ohayon-CrosbyCostume Designer & Wardrobe Specialist Expert Interview. 23 October 2020. Also consider the fabric you choose. Linen and silk are great fabrics because they’re soft and prevent you from getting either too hot or too cold. [14] X Expert Source Chloée Ohayon-CrosbyCostume Designer & Wardrobe Specialist Expert Interview. 23 October 2020.
When booking a prenatal massage, ensure that you find a massage therapist who is specifically certified in prenatal massage. [16] X Research source You may also want to confer with your prenatal care provider about obtaining a prenatal massage before booking one. You should absolutely speak with your doctor if you suffer from a high-risk pregnancy. [17] X Research source
Book a haircut at the new fancy salon in town. Enjoy a new haircut that flatters your changing figure (which may include changes to the shape and size of your face). However, wait until at least the second trimester to schedule highlights, as there is worry that the chemicals in hair dyes can negatively affect your baby. [18] X Research source Finally buy those new earrings that you’ve been eyeing up. Use your pregnancy as a reason to buy yourself something that makes you feel beautiful. Create a positive feeling about both your inner and outer beauty that you associate with that item, and anytime you need a bit of a “pick-me-up”, use that item to remind yourself that you are beautiful.
Try to associate with other mothers-to-be. Surrounding yourself with other women who are also going through the physical changes associated with having a baby can boost your confidence in yourself and your body, and in doing so, make you feel beautiful. In addition, you’ll be making friends who may be sources of fun and support once your baby comes. Don’t try to hide your tummy, since that might make you look even bigger. Have confidence in who you are and how you look![19] X Expert Source Chloée Ohayon-CrosbyCostume Designer & Wardrobe Specialist Expert Interview. 23 October 2020.
Accentuate the positive aspects of your body to feel beautiful. Look for a feature (or several features) that you feel confident about, and accentuate it. For example, wear a sleeveless shirt if you’ve got toned arms, a V-neck sweater to show off your new cleavage, or a long flowing dress to show off a newly-rounded belly. If you are struggling to be positive, remember that your pregnancy is finite. You felt beautiful before your pregnancy, and you will feel beautiful after it as well. If accentuating your pregnancy isn’t for you, minimize the attention drawn to your baby bump by wearing loose garments, solid colors, and layering your clothes (for example, wear a loose denim jacket over a button-down shirt). You can also draw attention elsewhere, such as by wearing a vibrant headband, a cute scarf, or bright tights.
Focus on the big picture. Your body isn’t changing because you’ve given up on taking care of yourself, your body is changing in order to help your baby come into this world as healthy and prepared as he can be.
