It does not matter how old you are, or how many children you have, pregnancy is an awe inspiring, nerve racking, exciting time in your life. It is also one of the greatest miracles a woman can experience. Following are some handy hints on how to make the nine months as healthy and stress-free as possible.

Try not to gain a lot of weight while you are pregnant. If you add too much weight, it can be tough taking it off later. This can lead to real health issues down the line. Also, expect to put on 15-30 pounds during the course of your pregnancy.

Pay attention to your body, and don’t write strange things off as simply symptoms of pregnancy. For example, swelling of the joints and face is common during pregnancy, but excessive and sudden swelling can herald pre-eclampsia. If you notice any symptoms that seem strange or haven’t been mentioned as expected by your doctor, give them a call.

Buy new shoes. As your pregnancy progresses, the extra weight will throw off your center of gravity, putting additional pressure on your feet. This can cause both fluid retention and flat feet. Purchase some comfortable shoes that give you good support; they will alleviate some of the previously mentioned concerns.

Take the time to do a hospital visit before giving birth there. Explore the facility and chat with the staff. This will allow you to get some of your questions answered so you won’t be as stressed out. This process can be particularly helpful to the expectant father as he will be very active around the delivery room when you give birth.

When preparing for sleep while pregnant, set up a bedtime routine. Include activities that will relax you. Some relaxing activities are, drinking warm milk, reading a book or having a warm shower. When you are relaxed, it will be easier for you to fall asleep. Be sure that you have your routine set up so that you allow yourself enough time for sleep.

Eat five or six well-balanced meals every day. This will help you to get all the nutrition that you need, as well as the calories. You should not be eating junk food all day. There is no nutritional value in that, and the only thing it will do for you is put on extra pounds.

When trying to perform kick counts late in pregnancy, your previously active baby may occasionally scare you with fewer movements than normal. If you are concerned, try drinking a caffeinated soda or something with a bit of sugar in it. Often, this is enough to wake up your baby and jump-start his or her movements again.

Always set aside ample time to develop a solid birth plan. Put what you would like others to help you with on the list as well. Be sure to pack an overnight bag that includes your insurance card, camera, pre-registration forms, your birth plan and clothes to bring your new baby home in.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience unusual or troubling symptoms. Your doctor is there to help you; do not be afraid to contact her if you think you might need assistance. If you experience pain, cramping, contractions or shortness of breath, call immediately to ensure that both you and the baby are doing well.

Towards the end of the second trimester, massage your belly on a daily basis. Place some pillows together behind your back while sitting on a bed or couch. Apply some oil to your belly and rub it lightly. Avoid using lotion for this. Play some relaxing music and breathe. This kind of relaxation helps calm both you and your baby.

It is a good idea to pack your hospital bag when you reach 37 weeks or so. You are more likely to remember the items that you will both want and need while in the hospital if you aren’t tossing things into a bag as you rush out the door.

Do not sit for too long. Swollen ankles and feet are common among pregnant women, especially at the end of a long day. The lower part of your body is strained in regards to circulation thanks to pregnancy. Swelling is made worse when you have to stay seated for extended periods of time, such as for a long car drive or a desk job. In order to decrease swelling, you should lie on the left side while sleeping, soak feet within cool water, stay away from stocks that have tight bands, and never cross legs at your ankles while you’re sitting.

Always ensure that if you have doubts or concerns about any part of your pregnancy, that you contact your doctor as soon as possible. We are confident the the above tips will fit you ease any stress you may have had. So, sit back and enjoy the ride, and the blessing that will arrive at the end.

Discover Ways To Make Your Pregnancy More Enjoyable was originally published on Spring