Your Pregnancy Survival Kit

When a woman is pregnant, she may be restless, irritable, and in need of a few items. Here is a look at some of the things that a pregnant woman may enjoy and necessities to get her through the next nine months.

1. Maternity Pillow

Getting the right amount of sleep during pregnancy is important, but can be difficult. Pregnancy places strain on a woman's body and make it hard to get comfortable while laying in bed. A maternity pillow is made to give support to the entire body. These pillows come in all shapes and sizes for all pregnant women.

2. Weekly Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage improves muscle and joint function, improves circulation, and takes away fatigue that is often associated with pregnancy. This massage is gentle and meant to alleviate the discomforts or pregnancy including low back pain, leg cramps, headaches, heartburn, varicose veins, and constipation. As blood flow increases, more nutrients and oxygen is carried to both mom and baby. It also soothes the nerves and helps a mom to relax through the anxiety brought on by raging hormones.

3. Tylenol

A pregnant woman often feels pain and discomfort while straining to support a developing fetus. Pain relievers containing ibuprofen are not safe to take at this time, However, Tylenol is acceptable. Since no medicine is completely safe, it is best to seek advice from a doctor before taking any drug while pregnant.

4. Prevacid Instead Of Tums Or Rolaids

To relieve heartburn during pregnancy, the safest antacid to take is prevacid. If heartburn becomes severe, it wise to consult a doctor who may able to recommend a course of action to alleviate the symptoms.

5. Humidifier For Rhinitis

It is quite common for a pregnant woman to get a blocked nose during pregnancy. High levels of hormones cause mucous membranes to swell and lead to congestion. To alleviate the stuffiness, it will be smart to run a humidifier. This will place more moisture in the air and make it easier to breathe.

6. Drink Plenty of Water

The body should always be kept hydrated, especially throughout pregnancy. The benefits of water throughout pregnancy are great and include clear skin, better bowel movements, and preventing morning sickness. Water carries nutrients to the fetus and flushes the urinary tract to prevent infections.

Dehydration during pregnancy can be dangerous. Amniotic fluid must be replenished often is drinking plenty of water will keep the baby safe in the womb. Also, water helps to thin blood which becomes thick around the eighth month of pregnancy. Thick blood can cause hypertension. Dehydration can also cause premature labor as it can start contractions. A pregnant woman should drink at least eight glasses of water each day.