How to Prepare For Pregnancy

Being pregnant is one of the most wonderful experiences a woman can have, but it can also be one of the most challenging. Having a baby can be a blessing no matter how it's conceived, but if you're lucky enough to be able to plan your pregnancy there are certain things that you can prepare for.The steps below will help you prepare for this special time in your life and, although no one can completely prepare for everything that can happen, this will give you a great head start.

Instructions

• 1

  Prepare your body by eating healthy foods. This means breaking bad eating habits such as drinking a lot of caffeinated beverages especially tea, coffee, and soda. Limit your sugar intake and choose only lean meats such as turkey and chicken. You can enjoy fish but limit how often you have it because of the mercury it can contain. Eat plenty of fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. Avoid canned foods because they are usually loaded with sodium. If you are overweight, lose the weight before you conceive. You cannot lose weight while you are pregnant because, when you lose weight, your body rids itself of fats and poisons which will cross the placenta to your baby.

• 2

  Walk! Think of your pregnancy as a marathon you have to train for. Walking is one of the best exercises you can do. It will help to condition your body and maintain a good level of fitness.

• 3

  Be realistic about your finances. If you are working, decide how far into your pregnancy you can continue to work. Women with physically demanding jobs will probably take a leave earlier in the pregnancy than those who have less demanding jobs. Plan ahead for managing money during the time you are off. Getting caught up with bills or even getting ahead of them before you get pregnant will take a lot of strain off of you during the pregnancy.

• 4

  Prepare your house or apartment. If you need to do heavy, spring cleaning, get it done before you get pregnant. Plan on where the baby will sleep and do any painting or wallpapering while you have the energy and drive to do it.

• 5

  Being pregnant, and then having a baby to take care of, means some of your freedom will be lost. If you feel as though there is something in particular that you want to do, or accomplish, that would not be appropriate while pregnant, or afterwards, do it now. Getting those things out of your system will help you to concentrate more fully on your pregnancy.