Pregnancy is one of the most special times in a woman’s life, but it can also be one of the most stressful. From morning sickness to mood changes, pregnancy takes a toll on the mind and body. The same can be said for the holiday season: one of the happiest and most stressful times of the year.
With holiday shopping and pregnancy hormones taking over the holly jolly season, it may be hard to enjoy the holidays while pregnant. Take a look at these pregnancy tips to help you make the most of the most wonderful time of the year.
Pregnancy Tips To Get You Through The Holiday Season
The holidays are all about giving back to others – to friends, family, and the community. But pregnant women also need to make their own health and wellbeing a priority. Whether it’s healthy eating or taking the time for much-needed rest, follow these pregnancy tips to get through the holiday season.
Eat Mindfully
The holidays, especially Thanksgiving, are often considered synonymous with over-eating. It’s important to maintain a healthy, nutritious diet throughout pregnancy, even when celebrating the holidays. Fill your plate with vegetables and proteins, and don’t skip meals to save your appetite for the main course.
Pregnant women also have an increased risk of food poisoning, so be sure to follow these tips for safe eating and food preparation this holiday season.
Take It Slow
Last-minute shopping, preparation for visitors, and getting the house ready for the holidays can run you ragged. Be sure to listen to your body and pace yourself during this busy time of year. If you feel your energy levels running low, take a break from the holiday madness and reset.
Travel Safely
The holidays are one of the busiest travel times of the year as people hit the road or airport to visit loved ones. Most women can safely travel through most of their pregnancies, but travel may not be recommended for women with pregnancy complications. Consult your gynecologist before traveling while pregnant.
It’s especially important to travel safely in 2020 due to the increased risks of Covid-19. Be sure to follow CDC recommendations for traveling during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as guidelines for celebrations or gatherings with loved ones.
Get Moving
Regular physical activity during pregnancy can help counteract some of the discomforts of pregnancy, manage stress, and even reduce the risk of complications like preeclampsia. With the overeating and stress that come with the holidays, it’s especially important to get up and get moving. Check out this guide to exercising during pregnancy.
Manage Stress
Holiday obligations paired with the fluctuating hormones and physical discomforts of pregnancy are a recipe for increased stress. Stress can lead to difficulty sleeping, headaches, and a racing pulse. It’s important for your health and your baby’s health to manage stress and its effects. If you’re feeling stressed this holiday season, try these strategies for combating stress and feelings of depression during the holidays.
Accept Help
Sometimes accepting a helping hand can feel like you’re admitting failure – as a mom-to-be, a holiday host, or both. Your friends and family are there to help, so let them take the lead on holiday chores and cleaning while pregnant. That doesn’t mean you can’t chip in, just leave the heavy-lifting to others.
Sleep
Sleeping can already be difficult during pregnancy, and stress from the holidays may make it even harder. Getting plenty of sleep is one of the most common pregnancy tips, as lack of sleep can increase the risk of complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and cesarean section. Take advantage of afternoon naps and sleeping in late, which are already typical during the holidays, and get some shut-eye whenever possible.
Enjoy the Happiest Time of Year
One of the best ways to get through the holiday season? Enjoy it! Moderation is key, but indulge in that Christmas cookie, celebrate with your family, or sing and dance to your favorite holiday songs to make the most of the season.
Contact Green Valley OB/GYN
If you have questions about pregnancy or are looking for more pregnancy tips, contact your gynecologist. Green Valley OB/GYN has been providing the highest quality of obstetric and gynecological care for over 70 years, offering a comprehensive list of services, including obstetrics and pregnancy care. To set up an appointment or talk about your health, call us at (336) 378-1110 to schedule an appointment.