A rush of emotions. A little stick. Will it be pink! Or blue? Who should you tell first? What do you do now?

Pregnancy can be a wonderful experience that is full of excitement and love and anxiety and tension. There are a lot of decisions to be made and you must face the realization (whether it’s your first or your 12th) that life will never be the same.

Once you have the details of the actual delivery, the who (midwife or doctor), what (your baby), where (home birth, birthing clinic or hospital) and when (determining your due date) down, you can get on with making sure that baby has the best possible beginning even before you give birth.

Nutrition will be one of the keys to help you to keep your growing baby healthy and safe while still in your womb. And an extra bonus will be helping you to keep up your energy and minimizing the unpleasant effects of carrying your little one inside of you.

If you have a craving, indulge it. If you can’t eat something, don’t worry about it. The body has different needs during this time and those needs show themselves in various ways. It’s a temporary situation and nothing to be concerned about.

Prenatal Vitamins - While many multiple vitamins have the necessary quantities of vitamins and minerals for an average adult, prenatal vitamins have the increased quantities of those vitamins most important during this precious time. In addition, some prenatal vitamins have added the herb Ginger to help with morning sickness.

Calcium and Magnesium - These minerals are important during pregnancy for a number of reasons. If you don’t have enough calcium to provide to your baby as he begins to form bones and teeth, your body will naturally compensate by pulling these critical minerals from your own teeth and hair. This is why many women get more cavities and have brittle, dull hair during pregnancy. In addition, adequate levels of calcium may prevent preeclampsia during late pregnancy. Of course, there is the added benefit of avoiding excess leg or muscle cramps, common in pregnant women.

Red Raspberry - This herb is commonly known as the woman’s herb and can be taken throughout pregnancy. It has been used traditionally to strengthen the uterus and help women carry full-term reducing the chances of premature birth.

5-W - This is an herbal combination by Nature’s Sunshine Products. Many mothers and midwife’s insist they would not deliver without it. 5-W (five weeks) should be taken during the last five weeks before the scheduled due date. This product will help to tone the uterus and shorten the duration of labor.

Common ailments and natural alternatives

Sometimes our best efforts aren’t enough and we end up getting sick or having other problems that need to be addressed during this delicate time. Because anything that you take will also affect your growing baby, it’s best to use safe, natural alternatives whenever possible.

For almost all of the following, the best natural prevention is water. Pregnant women need far more of it than the average adult. Be sure you have water with you every where you go and drink it by the gallon.

Allergies and sinus congestion - Fenugreek may assist by acting as a mild laxative (opening the bowels to flush the irritants and mucus) and by reducing mucus secretions. A side benefit of fenugreek is that it promotes lactation in nursing women.

Back pain - See a good chiropractor and use rice pillows to ease the pain.

Bladder Infections - Use cranberry supplements daily as a preventative if you are prone to bladder infections. Should you contract a bladder infection during pregnancy, you could increase your dosage of cranberry and add colloidal silver, a natural antibiotic. Be sure to do this at the very first sign of the infection as bladder infections that reach the kidneys may increase the risk of preterm labor.

Colds - Echinacea is a safe alternative that can be used during pregnancy. Sip on Echinacea tea or take a few capsules several times a day. Another herb that may be effective is Olive Leaf. Of course, don’t forget to increase your vitamin C.

Constipation and hemorrhoids - This sometimes occurs due to the extra iron in prenatal vitamins. While it is generally not safe to take a laxative during pregnancy, there are some things you can do. Increase magnesium. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant and will help to relax the sphincter muscle that allows for proper elimination. Increase fiber. Often, due to cravings or specific food aversions during pregnancy, women don’t get enough fiber. Supplement if needed. Exercise may also help.

Insomnia - Valerian root acts as a natural sedative and may be just enough to help induce sleep.

Nausea - Ginger or peppermint tea can be very helpful here. Also try aloe vera juice.

This is a time of joy but it may take a little extra strength and willpower to stick to your desire to stay natural. Just remember, the less toxins you put into your body, the healthier your baby will be.

Nicole Bandes is a Certified Herb Specialist that has been helping others to regain their health and vitality since 1999. Nicole uses and recommends Nature’s Sunshine Products for her family and friends. Read more articles by Nicole at http://www.naturallyherbs.com.

Tags: breast feeding, morning sickness, pregnancy, pregnantbreast feeding, morning sickness, pregnancy, pregnant

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All pregnant women will agree that the first few months of pregnancy are unpleasant, to say the least. You may experience morning sickness, swelling in the legs and ankles, abdominal pains and cramps,
heartburn, constipation, fatigue, bladder problems,
and a myriad of problems in between. The goal of this
article is to help you deal with these issues and feel better.

Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is probably the most common of the pregnancy symptoms. Don’t be fooled; morning sickness nausea will come at any time of the day, not just in the morning. To help prevent nausea in the morning, wake up slowly. Try eating some plain crackers or dry cereal before getting out of bed. Avoid warm places; heat can increase nauseas feelings. Keep fresh air flowing by opening windows, or turning on exhaust fans. Cooking things in the microwave will emit fewer odors than cooking in the oven or stovetop. Eat something salty before meals, avoid greasy or spicy foods, and try not to drink fluids with your meals. Spread your meals out throughout the day, into about 6 smaller meals. Try taking your prenatals later in the day, and ask your doctor about vitamin B6 and ginger supplements. Sipping on fizzy water with lemon in it, or non-caffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger can help calm nausea.

Abdominal Pain or Cramps

There are many changes going on in your body. A lot of stress is being put on your abdominal muscles,
which can cause sharp pains and cramps. To relieve these pains, try using a warm heating pad. To prevent these pains, try strengthening your abdominal
muscles. Talk to your doctor to find out which kinds
of exercises are best for you.

Swelling

Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience some swelling. Wearing support hose can help to control your weight gain in your legs and ankles. Avoid standing for long periods of time. Wear well-fitting shoes, or buy inserts designed especially for pregnant women. Avoid diuretics, as these will lead to increased swelling. Stay off your feet as much as possible, and elevate your legs when sitting. Lying down is even better than sitting.

Constipation

To combat constipation, you should exercise
regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat lots of
fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables, and
whole grain cereals and breads.

Fatigue

Fatigue can come from sleepless nights due to
aches and pains or vivid dreams, or simply from too
much stress. The most effective method for dealing
with fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take several naps
during the day. Eat a well balanced diet, including about an extra 300 calories per day. Iron deficiency is a leading cause of fatigue, so be sure to get enough. Although it may seem counter-productive, fatigue
can often be relieved by exercising. Exercise will be refreshing and will leave you feeling energized.

Heartburn

Many of the remedies associated with nausea will also help you deal with heartburn. In addition, chew fennel or papaya enzymes, and avoid wearing tight clothing.

Bladder Problems

Bladder problems can be among the most
bothersome of pregnancy related issues. First and
foremost, drink plenty of water. Avoid junk food,
refined starches, coffee, sugar, tea, and foods high in
acidic content. Avoid using soap on your genitals. Be
sure to empty your bladder and wash with water after
intercourse. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Try to include cabbage, leeks, and garlic in your diet, drink 3 glasses of cranberry juice every day, and take a vitamin C supplement.

Some women get more problems than others, but they generally get a little easier during the second trimester. In general, just make sure to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, get some exercise regularly, eat a well balanced diet, and try to keep an optimistic mindset.

Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community for mothers to find support and valuable information. Please visit Pregnancy-Guide for valuable pregnancy information.

Tags: morning sickness, pregnancy, pregnancy problemsmorning sickness, pregnancy, pregnancy problems

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1. EAT! Never allow your stomach to be fully empty. Keep a
snack with you at all times Eating small meals throughout the day will help keep
your blood sugar from dipping too low and triggering nausea. Try eating
carbohydrates before you even get out of bed (crackers, toast, dried fruit, popcorn,
granola bars, etc.)

2. Protein: Protein is the best source of sustained energy
and will be one of your biggest allies in preventing nausea. Eat some just before bed
to avoid feeling queasy in the morning.

3. Complex Carbohydrates: Avoid refined grains and
simple carbs like pasta and sugar. These foods not only have little, if any, nutrition
but can lead to low blood sugar. Enjoy whole wheat pastas, breads, and other whole
grains.

4. Drink: Dehydration is a major cause of nausea and
headaches. Aim for 2.5 litres of water, unsweetened juices, and herbal teas. Soft
drinks, caffeinated beverages, and sugary drinks are best avoided throughout your
pregnancy.

5. Avoid smells, tastes, and textures that trigger your
nausea. Ask others in the house to be aware of and respect this.

6. Accupressure: Try “Seabands” designed to offset
motion sickness, or firmly press an accupressure site that lies 1/6th of the way
between your wrist and elbow, in the middle of the inner side of your forearm.
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7. Ginger has has been clinically proven to relieve nausea.
Take 250 mg three to four times a day in capsule form (do not exceed 1 g) or drink
5-6 cups of the tea throughout the day.

8. Digestive teas such as fennel, spearmint, and
chamomile may also be of benefit if indigestion leads to your nausea.

9. Avoid foods that can cause gas and bloating. Try
drinking carbonated beverages to help expel stomach gas.

10. If an increase in mucous production is causing your nausea, try
indulging in spicy foods or drink hot teas.

11. Avoid sucking on hard candies on an empty stomach.
Although this may temporarily relieve your nausea, the digestive juices you
stimulate could make matters a lot worse.

12. Vitamin B6: Taking 25 mg of B6 throughout the
day, not exceeding 150 mg. may help “shut off” the nausea control-centre in your
brain. Many women are deficient in B vitamins at the onset of pregnancy, especially
those who were previously on oral contraceptives.

13. Avoid taking your supplements on an empty stomach .

14. Sleep: Exhaustion can aggravate nausea, and baby-
making is tiring work!

15. Address your fears: Many women find that there is a
psychological component to their nausea which can be relieved though counselling
and talking with others, as well as empowering themselves in preparation for the
birth.

16. Indigestion: Try using digestive enzymes such
as papain and bromelain at mealtime to aid digestion. Activated charcoal may also
help relieve a “sour” stomach. Try 2 capsules when nauseous, up to twice a day. />

17. Homeopathics: Homeopathic remedies are usually
prescribed on an individual basis, but you might try remedies such as nux vomica,
ipecac, and sepia. (Be sure you are purchasing the homeopathic variety of ipecac.
The undiluted kind can be dangerous to your pregnancy)

18. Keep active: CO2 buildup in the blood can contribute
to nausea, which can be reduced with the help of cardiovascular activity such as
walking and swimming.

19. Talk: Many women experience ambivalence when they
find out they are pregnant, even if it was planned. This anxiety can lead to nausea,
which in turn can lead to more anxiety.

20. Herbs: There are a variety of herbs that your herbalist
can recommend including dandelion root, wild yam, vitex, false unicorn, and black
horehound. Find someone knowledgeable in the use of herbs during pregnancy to
formulate something specifically for you.

21. Aromatherapy: Many essential oils will be off-limits
during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. However lavender essential oil,
when inhaled, may help relieve some nausea.

NOTE: Always make sure your doctor or midwife is
aware of your situation. Vomiting during pregnancy can quickly lead to dehydration
and possibly malnutrition if it continues long enough. In some cases it may be an
unrelated pathogen and should be investigated by your caregiver.

Stacelynn Caughlan is a Clinical Nutritionist and Certified Herbalist who
specializes in pregnancy, birth and childhood. She is currently the editor of
http://www.motherandchildhealth.com an online source of advice on nutrition,
herbs, and natural healing for pregnancy, birth, and childhood. It includes
parenting advice, articles, experts, and a variety of resources that help
support natural lifestyle choices.

Tags: health, herbs, labor, morning sickness, natural, nausea, nutrition, pregnancy, pregnant, prenatal, vitaminshealth, herbs, labor, morning sickness, natural, nausea, nutrition, pregnancy, pregnant, prenatal, vitamins

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