There are infinite number of tips out there for you, whether you are already pregnant or you would like to be. The tips here will help you learn the basics and all about what signs and symptoms you may have.

Being sleepy in the first trimester is very normal. Your energy level will probably plummet as that baby is growing in leaps and bounds. Make sure that you get lots of extra rest. Go to bed early and if you can change your schedule, wake up later. Don’t be afraid to take a nap in the middle of the day either if you need it.

When pregnant, avoid reclining after a meal. This can help your prevent heartburn. If you experience heartburn, you should sleep with your head elevated by pillows. Try to avoid foods that are spicy, acidic, or fried. These can be the main causes for heartburn during pregnancy. Those types of foods can also worsen your heartburn.

Take breastfeeding classes and bone up with some books prior to giving birth. Breastfeeding is best for baby but there can be a lot of pitfalls along the way that could sabotage your progress. Taking a class prior to having to actually breastfeed, will help you be calmer and more in control of feeding your new baby.

Write out your birth plan and make sure your doctor and labor coach have a copy. List out what type of medications you are willing to have and in what circumstances you want to move to different laboring methods. Of course, your birth plan is only a plan and if things need to change for the safety of your labor, don’t worry and just go with it.

Learn how to do pelvic tilts and use them as you get into late pregnancy. They are a lifesaver for the back pain that will start as you get further along in your pregnancy. As an extra added benefit, they also help the baby work its way into an optimum birthing position.

Eat breakfast every day when you are pregnant and make it a healthy one. If you skip meals you can end up feeling light headed before lunch time. Your baby doesn’t go 12 hours without eating after they are born, don’t make them go that long while they are still in your tummy.

If you plan on painting your baby’s nursery while you are pregnant, try to choose paints labeled as “no-VOC” or “low-VOC.” This distinction means the paints will release fewer volatile organic compounds — like formaldehyde — into the air, which is better for both your family’s health and for the environment.

Avoid the kitty litter box while pregnant. Toxoplasmosis is a dangerous parasite that causes problems for a fetus in utero. Don’t endanger your baby’s healthy; stay away from the litter box.

Human skin has the ability to expand, but it has it’s limits. Do not worry if your belly itches as it expands. Don’t take a hot shower, as a way to deal with the itching, though. Hot water will wipe away the natural oils on your skin and make it more dried out and itchy. The way around this is to use a heavy substance to moisturize your skin. Useful substances include petroleum jelly and cocoa butter. Make sure that the clothing you wear does not rub against the skin too tightly and avoid scratching!

Avoid emptying the kitty’s cat box during pregnancy. If there is no way to avoid this chore wear gloves and a mask. There is a small chance of contacting a parasitic infection called toxoplasmosis from cat stool. Since it takes 48 hours for the spores to become infectious, the litter box should also be changed everyday. It is also a good idea to wear gloves when gardening, since neighborhood cats often defecate in flowerbeds.

Do some gentle stretching every night before going to bed. Leg cramps are common during pregnancy because of weight gain. By stretching before laying down, you will allow your muscles to relax, thus, reducing the chances of getting muscle cramps as you sleep. This will also help you get good, quality sleep.

There are several ways to find childbirth classes to prepare you for the challenges of labor and delivery. Talking to friends who have just had a baby is one way to get a personal recommendation for a good class. You can also contact your hospital or health insurance provider for suggestions for classes open to you.

You should eat enough while pregnant. Being pregnant requires your body to consume about 300 more calories than normal. If you are also exercising, it will increase your calorie needs even more. Your body knows what it wants, if you are hungry, you need to eat, just make sure to make good food choices.

Being pregnant is a significant event in your life, and the more you know about pregnancy, the easier it will be to deal with its ups and downs. While giving birth is an amazing miracle, a bit of knowledge will make it even more positive.

Read To Help You Understand Pregnancy was originally published on Spring