Did you realize that each state has at least nine children born through surrogacy arrangements yearly?
Surrogacy is a beautiful way for couples who want to establish a family to have children. It is most likely not your first child as a surrogate. You understand the intricacies of having children.
You realize how critical it is to be healthy to carry a child to term successfully. It never hurts to learn more, though. Here are our top ten pregnancy suggestions to help you enjoy your pregnancy while staying healthy.
1. Eat Healthily
You eat for two throughout pregnancy. A well-balanced diet is required for the baby's development and growth. All major food categories should be included in sufficient quantities in your meals. If you're expecting multiples, consult your OBGYN and a Joy of Life surrogacy specialist to create a diet tailored to your specific scenario.
2. Drink a lot of water
Premature contractions might occur as a result of dehydration. Because our bodies do not generate water, you must ensure that you and the baby get enough fluids. Studies demonstrate the need to increase your water intake when pregnant. Ten cups per day, or 2.3 liters, is a reasonable starting point. Carry a bottle of water with you at all times, and download an app that will remind you to drink water regularly.
3. Continue Exercising
It may be tempting to cease exercising while pregnant, but daily or regular exercise should remain a part of your routine. Being in shape will be beneficial when you go into labor. Exercise does not have to be very strenuous. A daily walk around the block or to the local grocery store would suffice. Exercise will also keep the baby from becoming too large and help you relax during pregnancy.
4. Get Plenty of Sleep
Adequate rest is essential for a healthy pregnancy. The recommended amount of sleep per night is eight hours. The sleeping posture should be sideways when you reach your second trimester (week 13). We do not recommend resting on your back since it increases the risk of cutting off the fetus's blood supply and making you feel faint.
5. Prenatal vitamins should be taken
You're not new to taking vitamins as a surrogate. You were most likely taking vitamins before becoming pregnant. Vitamins and prenatal supplements will continue to be necessary during your surrogate pregnancy because they are required for the developing baby's brain, neurological system, and bone and tissue formation.
6. Remove Harmful Substances
Everything you eat or are exposed to during your surrogate pregnancy will affect the baby. It implies you must abstain from drugs, quit smoking, and refrain from drinking alcohol during pregnancy. However, the list of chemicals to avoid does not stop there; it also includes commonplace goods such as household cleaning products, caffeinated beverages, and any prescription your OBGYN has not cleared.
7. Make a Birth Plan
Everything should be clear when you enter labor:
Who you want to present, what you want to wear, choose delivery methods, and any medical interventions you want or do not want. Your birth plan will lay the groundwork for how you want to give birth.
Make time to create a birth plan.
Follow the American Pregnancy Association's recommendations.
8. Keep a Weight Log
It is typical to gain a few pounds while pregnant. These are the Institute of Medicine's recommendations. Tracking your weight after each trimester is one way to track how much weight you're gaining. Discuss any weight issues with your doctor and surrogacy specialist.
9. Reduce Stress
Hormone fluctuations in your body might result in a variety of mood swings as well as painful emotional states. It is, therefore, critical that you find unique ways to rest and relax. It is critical to have a support system in place during your pregnancy. If you're having trouble with the pregnancy, talk to your surrogacy specialist or a counselor to get the emotional support and assistance you need to get through it.
10. Find out more about Postpartum Depression
According to the CDC, one out of every nine mothers suffers from postpartum depression. Even non-surrogates have had this experience. If you get depressed during your surrogate pregnancy, speak with your doctor or a patriot conceptions surrogacy specialist. Therapy and participation in a support group may be beneficial, and your doctor can prescribe safe antidepressants. To locate a prenatal support group in your area, go to www.patriotconceptions.com.
Pregnancy Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Experience
When you're joyful, it rubs off on the rest of your body. Sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying the experience will help you have a healthier pregnancy. Read up about being a surrogate, the obstacles, and the joys that will be a part of this incredible journey, and consult with your surrogacy professional frequently to ensure that you fully comprehend the entire process.