Adjusting to pregnancy has its ups and downs, especially during the holiday season. Going through your pregnancy during the holidays serves as the final holiday before life as you know it is gone. Especially for first-time mothers, now more than ever is the time to make the holidays about you. Next year the celebrations will revolve around your newborn, so soak up the attention and relaxation while you can.
Our Green Valley OB/GYN providers are a resource for women throughout their pregnancy. There are certain tips and tricks you’ll want to keep in mind to stay your healthiest and happiest self this holiday season. Here is our guide for navigating pregnancy during the holidays.
Tips for Navigating Pregnancy During the Holidays
- Be aware of foods to avoid
Food is one of the best parts of holiday tradition, and for the most part, it is safe to indulge still while you’re pregnant. However, there are certain foods to be mindful of limiting or avoiding altogether. A good rule of thumb is to not stray from the pregnancy nutrition guidelines you’re already following. Most holiday foods you’ll want to steer clear of possibly contain a raw ingredient. For example, it’s best to avoid:
- Homemade eggnog
- Homemade apple cider
- Stuffing (if it was made inside the turkey)
- Soft cheeses
- Raw meat or raw seafood
Homemade, fresh recipes can be delicious, but they present a higher risk of bacteria if raw materials were used. Fortunately, there are many store-bought, CDC-approved alternatives to some of your usual homemade holiday favorites.
- Ask for help
There’s no better excuse to ask for extra hands than being pregnant during the holidays. There is usually loads of work and preparation that goes into holiday festivities, such as shopping, gift wrapping, cooking, etc. Pregnancy can take up a lot of energy, so it’s natural to find the normal activity a bit more exhausting than usual. Opt for online shopping, or bring a friend to help carry shopping bags or stand in long lines for you. If you are typically the host for celebrations, this would be the year to ask for help or sit back and let another loved one play hostess.
- Try a new mocktail recipe
Missing out on alcoholic beverages can be a sore subject for some mothers. However, let’s face it. The delicious aspect of the drink never comes from the taste of alcohol anyway. You can still indulge in non-alcoholic beverages that satisfy your cocktail cravings. These are some bump-approved holiday mocktails to try this season.
- Plan ahead when traveling
Depending on where you are in your pregnancy, travel may not be an option for you. If you are over 36 weeks, most airlines do not allow domestic travel. It’s best to stay home during the third trimester or as the due date approaches. If you’re in the first or second trimester, make whatever decision is most comfortable for you.
If traveling is inevitable, be sure to be prepared with your latest prenatal documents and your doctor’s contact information in case of emergency. Also, stay prepared by packing items that will keep you comfortable during travel and throughout your visit.
- Document your last holiday before the baby
Most importantly, make sure you enjoy the holidays and get some relaxation time in. If this is your first pregnancy, this is the last holiday you’ll share with just you and your partner. Take family photos, hang an ornament with the ultrasound photo, and document the final traditions of just the two of you. Enjoy this special time with your loved ones before the new child arrives.
Get In Touch With Us
Going through a pregnancy during the holidays should not have to alter your plans or traditions too much. There are certain adjustments to make and food or drinks to avoid; however, for the most part, it can still be a time to enjoy and relax with your family. For further guidance on navigating pregnancy during the holidays, contact us at (336) 378- 1110.