{"id":1934,"date":"2021-04-05T13:35:50","date_gmt":"2021-04-05T06:35:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.th\/blog\/?p=1934"},"modified":"2021-12-17T16:25:14","modified_gmt":"2021-12-17T09:25:14","slug":"the-complete-pregnancy-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.th\/blog\/the-complete-pregnancy-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"The complete pregnancy checklist: How to prepare for your baby\u2019s arrival"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you prepare for your baby\u2019s arrival, you\u2019ll have to make many decisions that you probably never even considered before. Where will your baby sleep? Will you use a stroller or a carrier? How can you make sure you get the nutrients your body needs? And so on. The number of details to consider can come as a surprise, and leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. In this Pacific Prime Thailand<\/a> article, we have compiled a checklist that makes it easier to organize your pregnancy, and alleviate some stress.<\/p>\n

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Exercise regularly<\/h2>\n

Before you start thinking about what color to paint the nursery or narrowing down your list of favorite baby names, think about how you\u2019re going to prepare your body and your lifestyle for your little one. Getting in shape before your pregnancy, or as early as possible, will not only make your pregnancy easier but your delivery as well. Make it a goal to get your heart rate up for at least thirty minutes on most days. Walking, cycling, swimming, and prenatal exercise classes are great options for expectant mothers.<\/p>\n

Eat well<\/h2>\n

Sooner or later, you\u2019ll likely experience cravings, such as pickles, ice cream, or spicy foods. Ensure you\u2019re eating well by getting plenty of protein, calcium, iron, and folic acid before giving in to your desires. Make sure fruits, vegetables, nuts, leafy greens, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains are part of your diet. As tempting as it is to indulge in potato chips, cakes, sugary drinks, and other junk foods when your waistline is already expanding, the reality is that empty calories won\u2019t do you any good. Drink plenty of water as well.<\/p>\n

Maintain a healthy weight<\/h2>\n

Expectant mothers often make the mistake of assuming that pregnancy is a free pass to be any shape or weight. However, it is important to understand that being too thin or too heavy comes with its own issues. For example, being overweight can increase your chances of high blood pressure and diabetes. It can even make your labor go on for longer, which is something that you don\u2019t want. Speak to your doctor about the weight that is ideal for you.<\/p>\n

Book your checkups<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re trying to get pregnant, it\u2019s advisable to get a checkup as soon as possible. Your doctor will tell you what vaccines or tests you need, what prenatal vitamins you should be taking, what medicines you can and cannot take, and how to manage any existing health conditions. Once you think you\u2019re pregnant, go and visit your doctor to confirm, after which you can determine your due date, discuss your birth options, and book the hospital.<\/p>\n

You should also come up with an antenatal healthcare program as soon as you know you\u2019re pregnant. You\u2019ll require regular checkups throughout your pregnancy to ensure everything is going well – with the first antenatal visit somewhere between 10 and 16 weeks. From around 11 weeks, screening tests such as ultrasound scans and blood tests are ideal to check your baby\u2019s development. The first ultrasound will take place between 8 to 12 weeks.<\/p>\n

Visit the dentist<\/h2>\n

Do you floss regularly? If not, now\u2019s the time to start. Doing so will be beneficial to both your baby and your smile. Pregnancy increases your chance of gum disease, which is a health issue that can even cause early labor. To ensure your mouth is healthy and pregnancy-ready, visit your dentist for a clean and checkup and remember to brush, floss, and use a mouthwash every day.<\/p>\n

Create a baby budget<\/h2>\n

Newborns need a lot of things, which can come as a surprise to new parents. The average infant will use around 7,000 diapers<\/a> before they are potty trained. On top of that, you\u2019ll also need a stroller, a car seat, baby bath supplies, and clothes. Create a list of the supplies you\u2019ll need and start looking for them sooner rather than later. Take into account that your expenses will include doctor visits, along with childcare if needed. You can make your money go further by making bulk purchases, opting for lightly used baby clothes, and choosing family daycare.<\/p>\n

Explore your benefits<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re employed, you\u2019ll need to think about what you\u2019re going to do after your baby is born. Some employers offer paid maternity leave once you\u2019ve given birth while others give you unpaid time off. Similarly, some employers allow you to use annual leave or sick days before returning to the office. Be sure to check your employer-provided health plan<\/a> to see which doctors and healthcare facilities are covered.<\/p>\n

Secure maternity insurance<\/h2>\n