This week is Pregnancy Awareness Week In South Africa. The purpose of it is to promote and educate women and the public about pregnancy and also to enhance healthy pregnancies – as well as healthy babies.

I think it’s a great initiative, as new and expectant Moms need all the support they can get.

In line with Pregnancy Awareness Week, Pampers and I thought it would be appropriate to share some tips for expectant Moms on how to keep healthy and stay informed throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Here are a few tips to keep you and baby healthy and safe: 

Get Tested

During Pregnancy, your Doctor will recommend that you undergo a number of tests. The purpose of these tests is to determine whether or not you are at risk of developing any serious conditions which could affect your pregnancy. For example, tests for diseases such as Diabetes, HIV/Aids or german measles are highly recommended as these pose serious risks to your unborn baby. Listen to the Doctor and take the tests – they are for your baby as well as your own protection.

Eat Healthy and Exercise

Maintaining a healthy diet and regular gentle exercise really complements a healthy pregnancy and birth. It is important to eat healthy food that includes fruits, vegetables, protein, whole-grains and lots of water!

Also remember to take your pregnancy vitamins and other food supplements such as folic acid – Ideally these should be taken before conception and then throughout the pregnancy as it is also beneficial to the baby to prevent baby defects.

 Attend Antenatal classes

Attending Antenatal classes was probably one of the most empowering thing Kurt and I could have done during our first pregnancy. By attending the classes, it gave us a great deal of insight as to what to expect at the hospital, how those first days at home will be as well as information on breastfeeding – which I think was key to me successfully breastfeeding my kids.

We also got to connect with other expectant parents and could share our fears and stories with one another.

Think about your birthing plan

Although it’s impossible to predict how exactly your labour will take place, you can have a list of things you do or you don’t want during the process.

For example, who do you want with you in the labour room with you? Is it your partner ? Do you want anyone else there and does the hospital allow it?

If you are hoping for a natural uncomplicated birth, read up and speak to your Doctor about ways to manage your pain during labour. You will be quite surprised that there are a few more options than just the epidural!

Listen To Your Body

For many Pregnant woman, that nesting instinct kicks in during the third trimester. It’s fine to do a bit of work around the nursery during that time, but TAKE IT EASY and ask someone to help you get things ready. You need to rest  while you can, as once baby arrives it won’t be that easy to just kick back and relax.

Lastly – Enjoy every moment of your pregnancy & we hope you found these tips useful.

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