Pregnancy Symptoms for a Baby Girl or Boy

Girl or boy, we are sometimes anxious to know. While for some women, they love surprises, and the reverse is the case for others. Whether a baby girl or boy, they are all children. But it won\’t be a bad idea to know the sex of the baby before childbirth.

Be fully aware that men are in total control of the sex of a child. Science had it that a man has two different sex chromosomes, male and female. The one that fertilizes the woman will determine the gender of the child. For the woman, she produces just one kind of sex chromosome, which is usually a determinant for a female child.

Therefore, a woman has only sex chromosomes that will produce a female child only while a man has sex chromosomes that will determine a male or a female. Although, the man has no say on which of the chromosomes that will fertilize during sexual intercourse, so it\’s a game of chance.

There are several sex prediction tests and theories that claim to be true in the olden days and till now. Among those theories are scan-based, emotional signs, old charts, telltale body signs, home tests, and old wives\’ tales.

Ways to determine a baby\’s sex

Although the baby\’s sex is already set right from the beginning, you will need to wait for a little to verify it thoroughly. Some of the ways to find out the sex of the baby earlier include:

1. Free cell DNA blood test like a panorama. A blood test can be conducted nine weeks into your pregnancy. The result is revealed after a week. It can show the baby\’s sex because the traces of your baby\’s DNA is present in your blood.

2. Ultrasound. An ultrasound is performed between 18-20 weeks of the pregnancy. The sex of the baby can be determined through this means. A scan shows where the baby\’s genitals are and carefully examined for sex predictions.

3. Amniocentesis. It can be done between the 16-20 weeks of pregnancy. It tests the amniotic fluid. They determine the sex of the baby as well as other genetic conditions. But it can cause miscarriage in pregnancy.

4. Chorionic villus sampling. It is used to test the placenta. It can be done between the eleventh to the thirteenth week of pregnancy to determine the baby\’s sex.

Read Also: How to Tell if You are Pregnant Without Testing

Some of the pregnancy symptoms for a baby girl or baby boy 

There are many signs, either scientific or traditional, that predict the sex of a baby. Some of these have been proven correct. They include:

  1. Severe morning sickness. It is believed that morning sickness varies in women, and from pregnancy to pregnancy. The severity of morning sickness can be a clue to the baby sex. If it\’s a female child, the morning sickness will be much. This occurs as a result of high levels of the hormone. If it\’s a boy, the sickness will be minimal.
  2. Skin condition. Hormones\’ behavior differs from women to women. Some believed that a baby girl would steal the mother\’s beauty alongside oily skin while a male child won\’t even give the mother acne. Concerning hair growth as well, some believed that a boy would give the mother longer and lustrous hair. While with a girl child, the hair will be limp and dull.
  3. Cravings.  There are various changes in nutritional needs that accomplish pregnancy. It differs in both sexes. Some believe that cravings for sweets and chocolate are likened to a female child. Craving for salty and savory food is less to be a male child.
  4. Heart rate. Some revealed a significant difference in the heartbeat of a baby, which can be used to determine gender. The proposed fact is that, if the pulse is below 140, then it\’s a male child. If it\’s over 140, then it\’s a female child.
  5. Bodyweight. It has an impact on the belly as well. If you weigh low, it might be a baby boy and. If you weigh high, then it might be a baby girl. In short, the gain of weight around the middle belly during pregnancy might symbolize a girl child. While gaining more in the front of the body signifies a male child.
  6. Mood swings. It occurs as a result of hormonal changes in pregnancy. Hormonal changes rise during pregnancy and fall after childbirth. Some believed that extreme mood swings and a higher level of estrogen signify a female child.
  7. Carrying the baby high. It is found to be a repeated sign of having a baby girl. A male child will hang down at the bottom.
  8. Stress level. Studies revealed that stress levels affect the sex of a baby. There exist a relationship between stress hormone cortisol and the gender of a baby. Statistically, it is found that women with a high level of cortisol are more likely to have a girl child.

Read Also: Healthiest Ways to Deliver a Baby

Other pregnancy symptoms:

  • Big appetite. A pregnant woman consumes more when she carries a male child.
  • The spinning of the wedding ring. When you tie your wedding ring to a piece of string and place it in front of your belly, if it moves forward and backward, it\’s a male child. If it moves in a circular direction, then it\’s a female child.
  • Chinese birth chart. It is an ancient Chinese document that requires the Chinese age of the mother and the Chinese month of conception. It will be used to determine the gender of the child.
  • Best foot forward. It was predicted that those who walk with their right foot are expecting a baby boy.
  • Urine color. The color of the urine can determine the sex of the baby. If your urine color is bright yellow, then it could be a baby girl. If it is a duller hue, it can indicate a baby boy.
  • Cold feet. If you always have cold feet during pregnancy, it could be a sign that you are carrying a baby boy.
  • Birth. The most certain of all is to wait until the baby is popped out. Then you can fully be sure of the sex of the baby.
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Best s3x positions during pregnancy

pregnancy sex positions

The fact that you\’re pregnant doesn\’t put an end to s3x. Now, you can\’t say you hate s3x because if you do, you won\’t have gotten pregnant in the first place. One of those good intimacy leads to pregnancy.

One thing I know about s3x is, no matter the condition, you will always crave for it. Not that it\’s an addiction, but the body will always request it at certain moments. You menstruate, ovulate, and now you feel horny. Now, you know what is missing and what\’s next. Never you deny yourself of s3x when it\’s most needed.

What most pregnant women think is that once they are pregnant, that is an end to s3x. But I\’ll tell you that you are missing out. No matter the form of s3x (be it oral or anal), enjoy it at any moment of your pregnancy stage. Being pregnant doesn\’t deprive or stop you from satisfying your body\’s desire. As long as you are safe with no pregnancy complications, you can enjoy s3x when possible. You and your unborn child are safe, and your hobby doesn\’t lack as well.

I know pregnancy does make somethings difficult, depending on the body system. But that doesn\’t happen every time or throughout the pregnancy. Therefore, do not see pregnancy as a disease. You should know the position you\’re most comfortable with to explore the s3x world during pregnancy. The position that gives you full orgasm where you derive all the pleasure you long for; once it is understood, trust me, you\’ll fall in love with s3x during pregnancy.

What are the s3x positions to avoid during pregnancy? 

With pregnancy, it might not be too comfortable having s3x in a normal position as before. Since s3x is about intimacy and body pleasure, there are several ways to go about it. Some styles might be harmful to both mother and child. Avoid areas that place a heavyweight on your belly. Such positions include:

  • The missionary position where you have the man on top of the woman. This can be dangerous as it can compress blood flow from mother to child, especially twenty weeks in pregnancy.
  • Lying flat on the stomach
  • Lying on your back for too long

Read Also: Why Pregnancy S3x is So Important

Best s3x positions during pregnancy

Think of s3x during pregnancy as a way of exploring various s3xual positions. During this period, you will determine the ideal spot for you and your husband. You will need to adjust to positions that will give you maximum comfort during that pleasurable moment. You will be left to choose which one is comfortable and best suit you. These positions include (but not limited to):

  • S3x from behind or doggie style. It is a great s3xual position for all pregnant women. It keeps pressure off the belly and gives a more comfortable pleasure to the pregnant woman. Pillows, blankets, or towels can be used to add comfort as well.
  • Seated pregnancy s3x. This position is safe, no matter the trimester, as it allows the belly and body to rest well. It is done when the pregnant woman sits on a chair or the edge of the bed. She then positions herself above her partner. Here, the partner can have access to mouth, toys, or fingers either by kneeling in front of the pregnant woman.
  • You on top. Here, the woman climbs on top of the man. This position is known to increase s3xual satisfaction for pregnant women who love to control penetration while they are on top of their partner. Depending on the kind of penetration you want, you can easily adjust it. You can adjust comfort by leaning back to keep belly weight from tilting you forward.

Read Also: Best Sleeping Position for Pregnant Women

  • Spooning s3x. It is more comfortable as the partner usually holds and penetrates the pregnant partner from behind while both lying down and facing away from each other. This position helps to put less pressure on the belly. The hubby is advised to touch the clitoris, whether penetrating or not, as pleasure is mostly derived from there.
  • Standing. This position works best when your partner holds you around the waist. It is advisable not to stand on anything for safety reasons. Seek solid ground while the pregnant woman places her hands on the wall and lean in for stability.
  • Floating pregnancy position. Depending on the size of your bathtub, a pregnant woman can have and enjoy s3x in the bathtub. With this s3x position, you can float while giving or receiving pleasure. At times, your partner can lie under you for support while you float on top. Make sure you allow his hands to stimulate your sensitive areas for pleasure. It can also be a way of caring for each other sensually.
  • Oral s3x in a resting position. You can rest comfortably either by sitting on your bed while your partner gives you oral stimulation. He can lick your clitoris or use toys on your sensitive areas to provide you with pleasure.
  • Mutual masturbation. This s3x type allows you and your partner to connect s3xually in any position you feel comfortable with.
  • Scissors. It is suitable for the first and second trimesters. It allows you to lie face to face while having s3x. Your partner\’s left leg can be raised over your right leg, vice versa. You can kiss, cuddle, and maintain eye contact in this position. Afterward, the pregnant woman can lean back while her partner props himself up with his arms.
  • X-files. In this position, your partner has full access to your breasts and nipples, which are always super sensitive due to some pregnancy hormones at that time. You lie on your back with your legs in the air or wrapped around his neck while he enters you. This position makes your vagina opening tighter, which makes you both feel intense.

I am sure with these listed positions, you can practice as many as you can. Also, you can choose one or two that will best suit your pregnancy stage.

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S3x Positions to Avoid During Pregnancy

A pregnant woman needs to be very careful even as the pregnancy protrudes. Careful attention needs to be placed on her walks, diet, exercise. Am I sure you know a pregnant woman can have s3x? Do you even know that there are some s3x positions to avoid during pregnancy?

I\’m not saying it is bad to be horny. In short, s3x has a lot of benefits for a pregnant woman. It is good when you satisfy your s3x need even during pregnancy. Who will like to hold the body all through the nine months? Enjoy your pregnancy and s3x, but take the necessary precautions.

To every advantage, there lies a disadvantage. But in this case, there will be no disadvantage if you know what you ought to know. As long as the s3x is safe and comfortable, it is good to go area.

What you need to know about s3x positions during pregnancy

During pregnancy, not all s3x positions are safe. No matter how you and your partner love s3x, these positions should be known. At least when you are not ignorant of it, you will be careful and guide against any error that may want to occur.

The belly shape and position need to be put into consideration when planning s3x in this condition. The s3x positions you will practice will also be dependent on the pregnancy trimester you are in. Once you consult your doctor and are free to have s3x during pregnancy, you will only need to stick to the positions recommended.

In pregnancy s3x, you need to stick to positions that keep weight and pressure off the belly. Remember, when you protect the stomach well, you are protecting the child as well. This will, at the same time, make pregnancy s3x comfortable for you and your partner.

Any position that will keep you off your back is recommended. Therefore lying with your back during pregnancy, s3x is prohibited. It is to prevent potential blood flow compression, which can activate unplanned issues.

What are the s3x positions to avoid during pregnancy? 

In each trimester, some s3x positions are favorable. In some, the reverse is the case because the child is growing, and the belly size is increasing. Apparently, in the first trimester, all s3x positions are safe. It is still the early period of pregnancy, and no much body development has occurred. As the trimesters proceed, you need to take precautions. Therefore, it is advisable not to try any position that might bring the slightest discomfort to you and the child.

Some of these s3x positions to avoid during pregnancy include (but not limited to):

1. Missionary position. 

It is one of the most prevalent s3x methods for all. But when pregnancy sets in, this position needs to be avoided. Protecting the baby is the most paramount thing you should have in mind and not just your pleasure satisfaction.

In this s3x position, the pregnant woman is at the bottom while the partner is on top. It is not a good idea because it compresses blood flow from the mother to the baby. Lying on your back puts much pressure on the aorta as a result of the enlarged uterus. The aorta is the blood vessel that takes blood to the placenta. A missionary position may block or damage the aorta, which can then result in low blood pressure.

Usually, once you hit the second trimester of pregnancy (around the twentieth week), any s3x position on your back becomes a no go area. Any other s3x method is advisable but not the missionary method.

2. Prone position. 

It is when you lie flat on the stomach while having s3x. This position is usually not too comfortable because the pressure is put on the belly and the baby simultaneously.

3. Acrobatic s3x. 

Whether it is in the first or late trimester, you should avoid extremely acrobatic s3x. Try to keep it simple while playing it safe.

4. Anal s3x. 

In the third trimester, which is a critical stage of the pregnancy, some women suffer from hemorrhoids during this stage. Therefore, you should avoid any se3 position that involves the least contact with the belly. Also, you should stay away from anal s3x because it can be extremely painful. The reason is that it poses a lot of risk to health, resulting in organ rupturing and bleeding. Also, in anal s3x, the risk of getting infected is high, mainly if the germs spread to the vagina.

5. Oral s3x. 

When you practice oral s3x, do not blow air inside the vagina. This prevents the easy flow of blood and may lead to blood clotting. Try as much as possible to maintain proper hygiene during oral s3x.

When do you need to avoid s3x and see a doctor?

If you are experiencing or have experienced one of the following conditions, please avoid s3x.

  • Pain
  • Leakage in the amniotic sac
  • Presence of more than one baby in the womb
  • Bleeding or spotting
  • Premature labor
  • Shortness of breath
  • If you suffered or suffering from medical conditions
  • Cervical incompetence or
  • Other physical issues

Precautionary measures

Before you start having s3x during pregnancy, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist. It is an appropriate way of keeping safe and knowing if no complications are present. It will also allow you to know if pregnancy s3x is safe for you.

Also, you are encouraged to use condoms to avoid infections that might pose risks to you or your baby. Extreme or rough s3x is also a no go area. It is necessary not to put much pressure on the belly or try any acrobatic positions. In the first trimester, it is good to try safe s3x positions for a s3x free experience and more satisfaction.

Asides from the listed s3x positions to avoid or the conditions that may pose a risk to your health, there is nothing much that can harm your baby if you have s3x during pregnancy. Once you can stick to the necessary safety measures, keep enjoying s3x as long as you can, even throughout your nine-month period.

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Healthiest Ways to Deliver a Baby

Childbirth delivery options vary. Every woman\’s experience is unique, and most mothers would say childbirth is painful. It is usually short-lived, and there are methods to reduce pain effectively. Although there are many choices in childbirth and choosing the right birth method can be a daunting task. It is easy to get lost in medical jargon and be confused by the countless delivery methods available.

You need to know that there are two methods of delivery. It includes the vaginal delivery and cesarean section which consists of natural unassisted childbirth (vagina) or assisted childbirth like C- section (delivery by Cesarean surgery). It may occur at home, in the hospital, or at a birth center.

The advantages and benefits of each delivery method must be weighed alongside the mother\’s preferences to determine what is right for her. Therefore, women choose which way makes them most comfortable, suitable for their personal and medical situation.

Types of delivery methods

Natural unassisted childbirth

It usually occurs at home, in the olden days, and even till now in the hospital. It was known as the usual childbirth delivery method and option until some decades ago. Natural unassisted childbirth emphases an unrushed, supported process, minimal interference with less invasive monitoring. Women who undergo this method often attend a training class where they are put through this method to prepare them. Usually, you learn about the stages of labor, breathing, and relaxation techniques, what happens to the vagina after delivery, and how to prepare for the delivery and newborn. It includes:

  • Vaginal delivery: It is a common and natural way of childbirth delivery. It occurs through the birth canal. Vaginal delivery reduces the risk of respiratory problems, food allergies, and lactose intolerance that a baby may go through. Although, it has its own risk as the baby can undergo physical trauma while passing through the birth canal. This can lead to swelling, bruising or broken bones in some rare cases.

Read Also: Beautiful Names for Twin Girls

Assisted births

In the event of complications, women can choose several options to help them with safe delivery. They include:

  • Vacuum extraction: It involves attaching a soft cup to the infant\’s head while still in the birth canal. A handheld pump is used to create a suction to facilitate delivery. It has a lower risk compared to C-section, but bleeding might occur.
  • Forceps delivery: it involves using curved instruments to facilitate the infant\’s progress in the birth canal. It is an option for an exhausted mother or if the baby needs to be delivered more quickly.
  • C-section: A hospital delivery method. It is a surgical procedure that involves a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen through which the infant is delivered. C-section is performed when vaginal delivery is impossible, or a problem arises. It is a straightforward process as the mother is anesthetized. Here, an incision is made through the abdomen and the uterus to reveal the baby. Delivery takes place through the incision. Most times, it is usually planned. You will be mandated to stay three days after a C-section to ensure the incision is healing.

Delivery places:

  • Homebirth: Homebirth can make soon to be mothers feel more comfortable and relaxed. It gives you more control over your labor position, environmental conditions, and the people present. Homebirth delivery is supervised by a midwife who provides coaching, necessary delivery procedures, and medical tools like oxygen, sutures, and an IV. Although it has its own risk and if complications occur, an emergency can be a long time coming.
  • Hospital birth: If you have a high-risk pregnancy, then a hospital is the safest because of the medical technologies available there.
  • Water birth: It can be done at home or in the hospital if the facilities are available. The procedure in a water birth involves spending the duration of your labor in a waste-deep pool of clean, warm water. The warm water helps to soothe and relax the body and mind as the cervix dilates. The water birth eases the mother\’s strain, and the transition for the baby is less of a shock to the system.

Read Also: Amazing Things Babies Learn in the Womb

Steps for a more natural labor

It includes (but not limited to):

  • Keep fit. Pregnant women who maintain their shape tend to have shorter labors. Fitness improves endurance. If you can tolerate labor, your chances of needing medical intervention are low. To know if you are fit to walk, swim, or take prenatal exercise class during pregnancy, please seek medical advice first.
  • Take a childbirth class. When you get familiar with the stages of childbirth, and you practice comfort measures before labor. You will feel less nervous, and this can make it easier for delivery.
  • Enlist good support. Asides your partner being by your side all through labor, you might need additional help as well. Discuss labor support with your doctor to ascertain the help you might need.
  • Distract yourself. Active labor lasts an average of 12 to 14 hours for first-time mothers. When contractions begin, try to stay calm so as not to allow the worry to wear you out. Look for things that relax you and put your mind on it.
  • Be open to medication. When your doctor suggests a medicine during the labor process, kindly adhere to it. It won\’t affect the child, but it will be of good use for you.

Healthy birth practices

  • Let labor begin on its own. It is healthier and safer for the mother and baby to let pregnancy labor start on its own. Please do not force it, but let it come naturally.
  • Exercise throughout labor. Simple activities like walking around and changing of positions help women cope with intense and painful contractions. Finding comfort in convenient ways helps labor progress.
  • Bring a loved one. Ask your partner, friend, or doula to come along for continuous support. Women feel better in labor when they are cared for by people they trust and know. Continuous emotional and physical assistance in pregnancy labor makes birth safer and healthier for the mother and child.
  • Avoid giving birth on the back and follow the body\’s urges to push. Upright positions like squatting, sitting or lying on the side make it easier for the baby to move through the birth canal. The baby might be wriggled through changing of positions by enlarging pelvic diameters.

Which birth method can we then say is healthiest? 

You need to know that the body system differs. What works for \”Woman A\” might not work for \”Woman B.\” You need to understand your body system and know what best suits you.

After you must have gone through this article, you must be knowledgeable about the various delivery methods. Remember, your choice of birth method is personal and vital. Therefore, take time to navigate the right one for you and the child.

Your doctor might suggest which one will be the safest at that moment. All you need do is to allow them to perform their duties at that period. They know what is best to ease your pain and land you a safe and healthy delivery.

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Remedies for Back Pain During Pregnancy

Different kinds of back pains occur in women during pregnancy, and this often increases with advancing gestation. Is it to mention the lower back pain, lumbar pain, or the pelvic girdle pain? All these back pain typically affects the lower back. A lot of factors like hormonal changes, stress, weight gain, muscle separation, and postural changes are responsible for this back pain during pregnancy. The causes vary between women and dependent on the pregnancy stage. 

Factors responsible for back pain during pregnancy

The hormonal changes occur during the first trimester due to the rapid increase of progesterone levels in the body. When the level of this hormone is high, the muscles and ligaments near the pelvis are relaxed. It can, in turn, affect the stability and alignment of the joints.

In the second and third trimesters, postural changes will occur due to the protruding stomach, which makes the woman lean backward. This thereby puts extra strain on the back muscles, which could result in lower back pain and muscle stiffness. 

A shift forward change occurs from the center of gravity as the baby grows because of the increase in weight. Also, weight gain during pregnancy can contribute to a lower back and joint pain; this can impact both the mother\’s and baby\’s overall health.

Now that you are aware of the possible causes of back pain during pregnancy, it is left for you to know or proffer remedies for back pains during pregnancy. It is a typical symptom for pregnant women, and that should not cause much panic. At times, back pain might seem inevitable during pregnancy, but there are ways to get relieved. Therefore, proper care must be adhered to while seeking solutions so that you do not end up impairing your health, and that of the baby. 

What are the remedies for back pain during pregnancy? 

The simplest remedies include:

Do some exercises:

  • Simple exercises that do not consume time but focused solely on weak muscles like, stretching of the lower back regularly. Other important activities are the pelvic tilt. It is performed either seated or standing. It improves posture and reduces tension on the lower back by strengthening the abdominal muscles. Also, we have the Kegel exercise. It has the benefit of relieving urinary incontinence by contracting the muscles that stop the flow of urine during urination. It is usually a common complaint by most pregnant women. This assists in strengthening the weakened muscles of the pelvic floor. Aquatic exercise or swimming may also relieve back pain. This is because it encourages the use of both flexor and extensor muscles to remain afloat in the water taking the pressure off the spine.

Related Article: 8 Best Workouts and Exercises for Pregnant Women

Have enough sleep:

  • Be it on a firm mattress, and following smart sleep habits. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and relaxing bedtime routine is essential.

Reduce stress: 

  • Minimizing stress through meditation, prenatal yoga, and other techniques that affect the mind. Prenatal yoga has a lot of benefits for reducing pregnancy pain. This is achieved by tackling emotional stress with deep, mindful breathing exercises that can strengthen and empower you. It can improve posture and tone the body in preparation for the birthing process. It also assists in getting better sleep by relaxing your mind and muscles.

Source for alternative treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic services:

  • Acupuncture eliminates any blockages that are interfering with the smooth flow of the body\’s energy. It has shown to be effective in relieving back pain during pregnancy. It must be well administered to prevent unwanted side effects like headaches or overstimulation that can induce labor. Chiropractic is usually associated with joint cracking. It is used in detecting imbalances and helps in correcting them.

Get additional support:

  • Additional back support should be used while sitting, like a lumbar pillow. Proper sitting posture is necessary, as well as a good standing posture. For women whose job nature requires sitting for hours at a time, a combination of a lumbar pillow and a footstool for leg elevation during sitting can minimize pressure on the lower back. At the same time, it can ease pain and improve posture.

Get a prenatal massage:

  • Prenatal massages should be gotten usually on a side-lying position to relax the tight muscles. It improves range of motion and relieves stress.

Maternity belt:

  • Abdominal and back support should be maintained by wearing a maternity belt. This usually supports the weight of the abdomen by performing the job of a weakened abdominal muscle. It thereby decreases strain on the lower back.

Other remedies for back pain during pregnancy include:

  • Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes that do not provide adequate body support.
  • Postural changes should be made, such as standing and sitting upright to enable a straight back and a square shoulder.
  • Inflammation should be reduced. Relax the tight muscles using a warm compressor.
  • Sleep on one side usually on the left side by using a pillow between the legs and below the abdomen. It typically takes the weight of the stomach off the low back.
  • Direct use of alternating hot and cold packs can also relieve back pain. The hot pack relaxes the muscles while the cold packs serve to numb the painful area.
  • Get help when you need to lift heavy objects.
  • Use of simple pain reliever like paracetamol. It is considered safe, but you will need to consult with your doctor first before the intake. If the back pain is terrible, your doctor might prescribe a stronger one or refer you to a physiotherapist.
  • Squat down, bend knees, and keep back straight when lifting an object.
  • Always resist the urge to push your belly far forward but stand up straight.
  • Do not take medications without consulting with your doctor.
  • Practice deep and proper breathing techniques. It helps the rib cage move properly by bringing air into the side rib cage, low and middle back, thereby releasing tightness in those muscles.

Important Notice

Always consult with your doctor before you embark on any of these remedies to ascertain fitness and safety. Also, if you encounter a severe back pain during pregnancy or back pains that last more than two weeks, kindly seek medical help.

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Why Pregnancy S3x is So Important

pregnancy sex

People\’s opinion on pregnancy s3x varies because various observations are deducted from several angles. You might feel that you have had enough sessions that actually got you pregnant, and what else do you need at that particular point which you don\’t have already. So you see pregnancy s3x as irrelevant or even a taboo. 

Most couples are ignorant of its importance. For some people, they are not too sure how safe it will be for both the mother and child. You may need approval from your doctor due to specific reasons; otherwise, it is perfectly safe. You can continue until the late period of pregnancy. 

Although it is normal for your s3x drive to change during pregnancy, having s3x will not hurt your baby. Because your partner\’s penis will not even go beyond your vagina. For some couples, they find having s3x during pregnancy enjoyable while some won\’t even think of trying it. 

The importance of pregnancy s3x

Pregnancy is not a disease and should not stop you from loving and making love when needed, you only need a good understanding of how to go about it. If you have a healthy pregnancy without complications, having s3x will not lead to a miscarriage or early labor. Pregnancy s3x comes along with emotional and psychological benefits of which some are;

It prevents morning sickness

According to Gallup\’s theory, morning sickness occurs as a result of a rejection of parental cells. It occurs as a foreign substance in the womb, which the body tries to expel through nausea and vomiting. Therefore, the release of sperm during s3x and exposure to increased sperm during pregnancy can subside morning sickness through exposition to either vagina s3x or oral s3x.

Related Article: Best Sleeping Position for Pregnant Women

It makes labor and recovery easier

An orgasm usually increases the contractions in the pelvic region during s3x, which will help strengthen the muscles needed for labor and after delivery.

Labor induction

Pregnancy s3x could bring about labor for overdue women as a result of the release of oxytocin, a labor-inducing hormone. Also, the semen that is released contains prostaglandins, even a labor induction hormone which is capable of ripening the cervix.

Prevention of complications

Sperm regulates the immune body\’s system because of its proteinous nature, and having enough of it during pregnancy s3x will help prevent preeclampsia. The cause of preeclampsia is unknown, and it is necessary to always go for prenatal visits and talk to your doctor about your risk.

Reduced blood pressure

There is usually a decrease in blood pressure immediately after having s3x. This is not a cure for high blood pressure because it is only temporal, and proper care should be sought for people having high blood pressure to put it under control.

Improved orgasm with different and better s3x

During pregnancy, most of your nerve endings are more sensitive. Your nipples and clitoris are engorged, and there is more estrogen drawing blood flow to your pelvis or pubic area. It is usually easier to achieve orgasms during this period because of the reasons stated above. Some women who find it challenging to have an orgasm before pregnancy may now observe that they no longer do. Also, your vagina is more lubricated because of the increase in estrogen, which allows for easy penetration.

Improved self-esteem

Despite the change that comes with pregnancy, you may feel that your body is no longer yours. Having s3x can assist in restoring your body\’s confidence and positive feelings about yourself.

Stress reduction

It is normal to worry about a lot of things during pregnancy, like work and changes that will even occur after your baby is born. Remember that your body releases oxytocin, a love hormone when you have an orgasm. This can assist in negating some of those stresses and also improve your sleep. Orgasm is a natural stress reliever that floods your body during s3x due to the presence of oxytocin (endorphins producing hormone), which makes the body feel calm, alleviate pain, and even gives you a happy feeling.

Related Article: 8 Best Workouts and Exercises for Pregnant Women

Preparation for labor

Having s3x will not automatically put you into labor if you are past your due date or in full-term. It can only help your body prepare for labor because of the semen, which contains prostaglandins, which can help ripen the cervix.

Improved connections

You must connect with your partner now while you have time because once the baby is born, you will need more of that connection. Most women become more focused on their pregnancies, and at the time, their partners are left out. Having frequent s3x will now help strengthen the intimate relationship and sustain the bond you have with your partner and make you establish a healthy habit for the future.

Discovery of new s3x positions

There are several s3x positions that you may find unpleasant and unpleasurable before pregnancy. But when pregnancy sets in, you will begin to explore new styles and positions that you never even imagined due to the shape of the tummy. It is now the moment you try out new positions with your partner.

You can only be ignorant about what you do not know. Now that you have seen the many benefits of pregnancy s3x, it is high time you take the bull by the horn and explore all these benefits with your spouse.

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Top 6 Healthy Prеgnаnсу Fооdѕ

pregnancy Fооdѕ

Every рrеgnаnt wоmаn muѕt соnѕіdеr whаt thеу еаt or drіnk аѕ it’s hеr baby’s primary source of nоurіѕhmеnt. Yоu must bе ѕurе thаt уоu’rе taking healthy fооdѕ and drinks durіng уоur рrеgnаnсу реrіоd, to avoid risking your baby’s development.

What mаnу moms fаіl tо understand is thаt fіgurіng оut whаt tо еаt when you’re eating fоr twо саn bе соnfuѕіng. Our fіrѕt recommendation bеfоrе diving into these healthy fооdѕ іѕ tо саll уоur hеаlth care provider to ѕсhеdulе a hеаlth сhесk appointment.

Here’s a list to get уоu off tо a good start wіth healthy рrеgnаnсу fооdѕ;

1. Bаnаnаѕ:

Eating hеаlthу fооdѕ helps to ensure thаt thе bаbу gеtѕ the nutrіеntѕ it nееdѕ to grow in thе wоmb. Bаnаnаѕ аrе rісh in роtаѕѕіum аnd offer ԛuісk еnеrgу to fіght off pregnancy fаtіguе. Also, they boost hеmоglоbіn lеvеlѕ in thе bоdу, whісh increases red blооd сеllѕ in thе blood, and hеnсе boosts lеvеlѕ of hеmоglоbіn. Thеу are аn excellent source оf саrbоhуdrаtеѕ, vitamins C аnd B, fatty асіdѕ; so they аrе аll іmроrtаnt fоr hеаlthу bаbу development. As a rich ѕоurсе of аntіоxіdаntѕ, they hеlр іn fighting frее radical damage in thе bоdу.

2. Drіnk Mоrе Water:

Generally, water is nееdеd to fluѕh оut toxins, аіd dіgеѕtіоn. It еnѕurеs оur bоdіеѕ аbѕоrb thе еѕѕеntіаl nutrіеntѕ from thе food wе eat. Whеn уоu’rе pregnant, уоu nееd more wаtеr tо соре with the demands оf оur еvеr-сhаngіng bоdіеѕ. During pregnancy, whеn the bоdу dоеѕ nоt gеt еnоugh fluіd, іt becomes dеhуdrаtеd, which саn lеаd tо соnѕtіраtіоn, headaches, fаtіguе. Yоu nееd tо drіnk ѕіx tо eight mеdіum (200ml) glasses of fluid a day. Fluіd rеԛuіrеmеntѕ аrе аlѕо vegetable juice, hеrbаl tea, ѕоuр, rice drіnk, оr any оthеr nоn-аlсоhоlіс refreshment

3. Folate:

Folate is an еѕѕеntіаl B vіtаmіn that ѕuрроrtѕ thе placenta аnd hеlрѕ рrеvеnt nеurаl tubе dеfесtѕ in thе baby. Congenital dіѕаbіlіtіеѕ оссur within the fіrѕt 3-4 wееkѕ оf pregnancy. Sо it’s іmроrtаnt tо hаvе fоlаtе іn уоur ѕуѕtеm during thоѕе еаrlу ѕtаgеѕ whеn уоur bаbу’ѕ brаіn аnd spinal соrd аrе dеvеlоріng. Fоlаtе rеԛuіrеmеntѕ increase substantially іn рrеgnаnсу, ѕо women ѕhоuld аіm tо соnѕumе аt lеаѕt 600 mcg of fоlаtе frоm their rеgulаr dаіlу dіеt. Fоlаtе is fоund naturally in dаrk grееn vegetables аnd сіtruѕ fruіtѕ.

Read Also: Best Sleeping Position for Pregnant Women

4. Sweet Pоtаtоеѕ:

Arе ѕwееt роtаtоеѕ ѕаfе tо consume durіng рrеgnаnсу? Swееt роtаtоеѕ are соnѕіdеrеd ѕаfе fоr соnѕumрtіоn durіng рrеgnаnсу аѕ they аrе rісh in vіtаmіnѕ A and C, аnd fіbеr. Also, prеgnаnt women rеԛuіrе more роtаѕѕіum thаn оthеr wоmеn оf thе ѕаmе аgе. Swееt potato соntаіnѕ роtаѕѕіum, whісh helps to mаіntаіn fluіd bаlаnсе аnd nоrmаlіzе blооd рrеѕѕurе. Brеаѕtfееdіng moms ѕhоuld take mоrе роtаѕѕіum.

5. Broccoli:

Brоссоlіѕ аrе оnе оf the best hеаlthу fооdѕ fоr рrеgnаnt wоmеn. Nоw that уоu аrе рrеgnаnt, уоu’d be wondering how Brоссоlі саn hеlр. They are rісh in vіtаmіnѕ A, C, K, B6, folate, and dіѕеаѕе-fіghtіng аntіоxіdаntѕ thаt аrе nесеѕѕаrу for a hеаlthу pregnancy. Also, broccoli hеlрѕ еlіmіnаtе many of thе рrоblеmѕ рrеgnаnt wоmеn fасе, such as diabetes, оѕtеороrоѕіѕ, anemia, and so оn. It helps рrеvеnt constipation too.

6. Eggѕ:

Eggѕ аrе аn excellent аltеrnаtіvе protein ѕоurсе; thеу contain аll thе еѕѕеntіаl аmіnо acids уоur bоdу needs аnd especially сruсіаl for уоur baby’s development. Amіnо acids соntаіnеd іn рrоtеіn аrе the buіldіng blосkѕ of our bоdіеѕ’ сеllѕ; уоu must еаt protein-rich fооd to help your baby develop well.

What to know?

It іѕ essential durіng рrеgnаnсу to keep a сhесk on whаt уоu eat. Sіnсе саlоrіе аnd nutrіеnt needs аrе іnсrеаѕеd, уоu must сhооѕе nutrіеnt-dеnѕе, hеаlthу fооdѕ. So, make ѕurе you аrе gеttіng еnоugh еѕѕеntіаl nutrіеntѕ аnd vitamins tо hеlр уоur bаbу grоw.

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Best Sleeping Position for Pregnant Women

pregnancy sleep position

If there is one thing every pregnant woman needs and looks forward to is a night of good sleep. But as the pregnancy advances, getting a good sleep becomes difficult, and finding a good sleep position can become a work. You begin to worry about what sleep position would be healthy for you and the fetus.

In the first trimester, it is ok for a pregnant woman to take whatever position is comfortable for her to sleep and enjoy her sleep even if it is on the stomach. At the early stage of pregnancy, the uterus is not significant to cause any problem when a pregnant woman lies on her stomach. The embryo or fetus is secured in the uterus or the amniotic fluid, which is well cushion inside the pelvis.

However, what could cause sleep disturbance at this stage are the hormonal changes, especially for a first-time mom, frequent hunger, and morning sickness. 

Best positions to sleep during pregnancy

Left side:

As a woman advances in her pregnancy, her sleeping position changes. She can\’t sleep on the stomach by the time she is four months because her growing pregnancy bump will not allow her to. It is advisable for pregnant women in the second trimester to take a sleeping position on their left side. This position maximizes the flow of blood to the uterus and the baby. Lying on your left side is also beneficial to your liver as it keeps your liver from bearing your whole body weight.

Right side:

Although the left side is the preferred or best sleeping position for pregnant women, the right side is ok for women who don\’t feel comfortable sleeping on the left side.

Semi-upright position:

If the sideways position is not comfortable or you are unable to sleep on your sides, you can sleep in an almost upright position using a recliner. But in the absence of a recliner, you can use pillows to place yourself into a semi-upright position.

Downward position:

Get around pregnancy pillow with space in the middle. If you feel like facing downward or lying on your belly, then you lie facing downward with your pregnancy bump in the hollow space. This space prevents your stomach from touching the bed and bearing the weight of your bump. You support your head with two pillows to balance your weight. 

Read Also: Top 6 Healthy Prеgnаnсу Fооdѕ

Positions to Avoid

Lying on your back:

Sleeping on your back is not safe for your baby from the second trimester. When a pregnant woman takes the lying on the back position, the weight of the uterus rests on the back, and this would put pressure on the vena cava and aorta; the main blood vessel that takes blood to the uterus and from the womb. The pressure can stop or restrict the blood supply to the baby, thereby increasing the risk of death or stillbirth. Lying on the back can cause the baby to be less active and affect the heartbeat rate.

There is no need to panic if you sleep on your side and wake up on your back. You waking up in the first place is your body\’s way of telling you to adjust your position.

Lying on your stomach:

Lying on your stomach from the second trimester isn\’t advised. Even though for many women, the pain that comes from trying it would not allow it some women who have small pregnancy bump might attempt it. When you lie on your tummy, your stomach will push down on your uterus. This can cause bloating, gas, or another stomach upset.

Tips to help you sleep on your side

  1. Get many pillows. Get between eight to ten pillows to support you.
  2. Place three pillows at your back to support you from rolling over to your back.
  3. As you get to your third trimester, sleeping on your side becomes more difficult. Your pillows will make it easier.
  4. Place a pillow in between your legs, one under your pregnancy pump to support the belly, two soft pillows below your head to help support the increasing weight on your side.
  5. In case you experience heartburn, raise your upper body with a few pillows.
  6. If your feet and legs are swollen, place pillows under your legs as you sleep.

Sleeping Aids

Pillows: 
  • Pillows for back and belly support can help to give you a peaceful night rest. Using pillows specifically designed for use in pregnancy will help in providing better comfort. There are several shapes of a pregnancy pillow, the c-shaped pillow, u-shaped pillow, and body-length pillow are available to purchase. 
  • A pillow between knees with both of them bent; this will support your lower back, tucking a pillow under your belly will support your stomach and back. Placing pillows behind you will help you maintain a side-lying position.
  • It can also help relieve heartburn when it is used to prop your head up.
Food and drink:
  • When you are pregnant, you should be careful about what you eat. Not only because of your baby but also because what you eat or drink can affect your sleep.
  • Milk: Try drinking a glass of warm milk before going to bed. This will help you sleep well likely because of the presence of serotonin in milk and the fact that it can reduce acidity in your stomach, preventing gas.
  • Protein: Hunger could disturb the sleep of a pregnant woman, often waking up with nausea. An empty stomach welcomes the urge to vomit, and that\’s why it is good to eat something that would keep your stomach full through the night. You should snack on highly protein snacks because it will keep your blood sugar up through the night. Smoothies rich in protein is a good choice, cereals with milk, peanuts, sandwich with milk would also help.
  • Do not go to bed immediately after eating, that also has its problems.
Medications:
  • You should only take drugs approved by your doctors. Your doctor is likely to recommend antacids to help with indigestions and heartburns.
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How to Tell if You are Pregnant Without Testing

Am I pregnant? It is a question you find yourself asking, and for some reason, you aren\’t rushing to confirmatory tests. Either because you don\’t want to raise a false alarm or you don\’t want to be disappointed. Still, the most reliable confirmation is a pregnancy test. Some signs could heighten your suspicion of pregnancy, and some of them are listed below. Many of them have to do with you understanding your body before now.

Signs that you could be pregnant

Missing Your Period

This sign is for women who have a regular period. If you do not see your period a week or two after the date you are expecting your period should signal pregnancy but should be confirmed by a pregnancy test. Other factors could cause women to miss their menstrual periods, such as stress, hormonal imbalance, malnourishment, abuse of morning-after pills, some contraceptive pills, and the onset of gynecological disorders.

Pimples and Acne 

Pimples could breakout on your face because of the rising hormone levels. The pimples could be tiny and spread over the face or quite big and located at several points on the face and neck.

Spotting

This is when a woman experiences light bleeding between her menstrual cycles or when she is pregnant. Spotting could be a sign of the implantation of a fertilized egg. A woman might be surprised thinking her period has come earlier than expected, but if she looks closely, she would realize that the blood isn\’t as dark or heavy as her period. Bleeding from spotting is lighter, smaller in volume. The blood isn\’t enough to fill a tampon or soak a sanitary pad. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by spotting, a sign of successful implantation to the uterus.

Lower Abdominal Pain

Women experience lower abdominal pain that could be as painful as the menstrual period or even more painful. At first, it could seem like implantation pain but can continue for eight weeks or through the first trimester. If you are a first-time mom, you might be worried that something is wrong with you or the baby, but nothing is wrong with you. The pain could be coming from the expanding uterus or cyst that is formed to support until the placenta is formed.

Read Also: Pregnancy Symptoms for a Baby Girl or Baby

Sleepiness and Fatigue

Many women experience sleepiness and fatigue as early as two weeks into pregnancy. The rising pregnancy hormones are responsible for causing fatigue, drowsiness, and nausea. If you find yourself combining fatigue, sleepiness, and any other symptom, then you should take a confirmatory pregnancy test and start taking proper care of yourself and the growing baby. If the lethargy and fatigue you are experiencing are due to pregnancy, then you should know that by the second trimester, it will stop.

Vomiting and Nausea

Women experience morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting as early as three weeks into the pregnancy. If you are getting nausea from the smell of food perfumes or other kinds of smells, you have been comfortable with before, and you aren\’t on medications that have nausea as their side effect, then there is a high probability that you are pregnant. You should check with your doctor for a confirmatory test.

Sensitive Breast

Hormones cause the breast to become full and tender. There is an increased sensitivity of the breast to touch from the early stage of pregnancy.

Mood Swings

Mood swings in some women in pregnancy are caused by the hormonal changes occurring in the woman\’s body. These hormonal changes alter the chemical messengers sent to the brain. You might find yourself excessively grumpy, angry over the slightest things, easily crying and feeling overwhelmed. And because you are feeling fatigued, often you might think stress is affecting you. You might be on a family planning method and may not be suspecting pregnancy. When you feel this way, you should take a home pregnancy test or book an appointment with your doctor to rule out pregnancy because you might be pregnant.

Food Aversion and Cravings

You may find yourself craving a particular food more intensely, and at the same time, you find that you are being put off by a specific food that you usually eat; there is a high possibility of being pregnant. Pregnancy in some women comes with cravings.

Read Also: Healthiest Ways to Deliver a Baby

Frequent Urination

Hormone chorionic gonadotropin is produced and at the highest during the first few weeks of pregnancy. This hormone makes you frequently urinate because it causes more blood to enter your groin area, increasing the pressure on your bladder, and in turn, you visit the toilet more often.

Dizziness

Some women feel dizzy, and some faint, especially when they don\’t take time to eat well when they feel hungry. And since they don\’t realize the hunger spell is because they are pregnant, they are likely to ignore it—increased hormonal and blood levels in the body cause dizziness.

Hunger

When you\’re up in the morning feeling like you could devour a full pot of food, feeling ravenous and frequently hungry during the day even shortly after eating could be a signal that a baby is forming in your uterus. You seem to eat but never get full, especially when there is a craving.

Metallic Taste in the Mouth

When it seems, there is this metal taste you can\’t wash away no matter how hard you try. It sometimes puts you off eating. Many women experience this through the first trimester. It is one of the early signs of pregnancy.

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8 Best Workouts and Exercises for Pregnant Women

Exercises for Pregnant Women

Exercises are a good way for a pregnant woman at whatever stage of pregnancy to keep fit and give birth to a healthy baby. Exercising during pregnancy helps you to avoid adding excess weight, eliminate and reduce backache, improve your overall health, and help make delivery easier. 

Because exercising is great for pregnant women doesn\’t mean all exercises are fine for pregnant women, or all pregnant women are fit to get involved. There are things to consider when deciding to start exercising.

When you shouldn\’t exercise if

  • You have been diagnosed with placenta Previa, which is placenta lying low to your cervix.
  • You have spotting or experienced vaginal bleeding. This could be signs of threatened abortion, and your doctor has to approve an exercise routine.
  • You have a weak cervix with a history of preterm labor or miscarriage
  • Exercising brings on regular contractions that last up to an hour.
  • Fatigue sets in after every exercise
  • You have a pregnancy-induced condition that could be life-threatening to you and the baby.

Exercises for Pregnant Women

Brisk or fast walking:

You need a firm bra or sports bra, good sneakers that has a good grip and sport wears. If you are not the regular exercise type, then you can start by walking briskly on smooth surfaces. Avoid steep planes, potholes, and ditches. This form of cardiovascular exercise and one of the best exercises for pregnant women.

Swimming

Swimming is an excellent form of aerobics and muscle-strengthening exercise. It is safe for every stage of pregnancy. The pleasurable part about swimming is that the water supports your tummy, takes the pressure off your back and joint. To take caution, avoid jumping and diving into the poop as this could have an undesirable impact on your pump. Avoid slipping as much as possible.

Cycling

Whether you choose stationary cycling or your bike, you are safe even as a first-timer. Cycling is a safe aerobic exercise good for the heart rate and taking stress off the joints. As you advance in pregnancy and your bump starts to change your center of gravity, I will advise stationary cycling to minimize the risk of falling.

Running

One of the best workouts for pregnant women and a great aerobic. If you were running or jogging before you got pregnant, you could continue. Running has a low impact on the abdomen. You can also consider running on a treadmill if you don\’t want to work out outside as your pregnancy progresses.

Pelvic Tilts

  • A stomach strengthening workout for pregnant women. It helps reduce back pain. You can either take a kneeling position or rest against the wall for support.
  • Go down on your knees and hands on your workout mat or a cushioned place (to prevent falling or impact from falling)
  • Arching your back, tuck in your tummy from your belly button region
  • Release it after five seconds.
  • Repeat this process ten times
  • If you choose to rest on the wall, make your back flat against the wall
  • Tuck in your tummy and repeat the process

Related Article: Best Postpartum Wraps to Help Lose Your Belly Bumps

Pregnancy exercise for normal delivery

While exercises are fantastic to keep you healthy and fit throughout pregnancy, these are exercises you can engage in during pregnancy for normal delivery.

Pilates Exercises

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Pilates Exercises

This workout helps with balance and flexibility. Pilates workout strengthens the portion of the abdomen known as \”transverse abdominis\” that wraps around the abdomen. During childbirth, it compresses and helps the uterus push out your baby in the final phase of labor. You will need to practice this workout postpartum once your doctor clears you, this will help you get your abs in shape

  • Sit on a yoga block, physioball or a chair in your house
  • Inhale through your nose, filling up your belly with air and allowing the muscles of your stomach to relax
  • Exhale a slow and slow breath. You can involve your mouth when exhaling.
  • Repeat this workout several times.

Hip Raises

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Hip raises exercise

While your pregnancy bumps advances, the Hip Raises workout will help support it, strengthen your bum, and also help in labor.

  • Lie flat on your back with knees bent upwards. Don\’t stay in this position for long. 
  • Place your palms under your hips
  • Then gradually lift your hips till your feet is flat on the ground, and your torso is in line with your shoulders.
  • Hold this position for two seconds and lower slowly to the position you took at the beginning.

Pelvic Floor Exercise

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Kegel Exercises

Pelvic floor muscles, which are located in your pelvis and go all the way to your spine at the base, are essential in your second stage of labor. Pregnancy and childbirth can easily weaken your pelvic area; A Kegel exercise is recommended, to have a more natural virginal delivery and strengthen these muscles. You can do this anywhere and anytime.

Things to note when exercising during pregnancy

  1. Before you start exercising, warm-up, and rest after.
  2. Avoid getting so exhausted from exercising. Remember that pregnancy demands energy.
  3. Try as much as possible to carry out a workout at least thirty minutes daily actively.
  4. Drink plenty of water and other healthy fluids
  5. Do not exercise immediately after eating or eat quickly after a workout.
  6. Avoid exercises that exert high air pressure.
  7. Avoid exercises that have a high risk of falling or at least carry out such activities with great caution. A fall to your abdomen is highly detrimental to the health of your baby.
  8. It is best to work with qualified or certified gym instructors who are familiar with working with pregnant women if you want to work out in a gym.
  9. Avoid heavy weightlifting.
  10. Put on comfortable and loose-fitting clothing when exercising
  11. Do not exercise in high humidity or overheated environment.

Exercises that have a risk of falling, such as horse riding, downhill skiing, ice hockey, gymnastics, and cycling, should only be done with caution. Falls carry a risk of damage to your baby.

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