Pregnancy Tips For The Holiday Season
Tips for navigating the holidays while pregnant
The holiday season is filled with nostalgia and love, but it also comes with its fair share of stress. And, if you’re lucky enough to be pregnant this December, you get to balance holiday plans with your existing pregnancy to-do list. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with preparations and parties, but nothing’s more important than your health and well-being right now. Read on for our tips on getting into the holiday spirit while pregnant!
Decide which plans are most important… and say no to everything else
Between last-minute shopping, holiday cooking, and more dinners than anyone has time for, it’s so easy to overbook yourself this time of year. To top it off, you’re now growing a tiny human inside of you. So, give yourself the freedom to say “no,” so you can save your energy for the holiday activities most near and dear to your heart.
If your friends and family know you’re pregnant, they should understand if you need to take a step back from some holiday obligations this year. (Plus, being pregnant is the perfect excuse for getting out of any plans you’re less than excited about.)
Make time for rest and self-care
Emotions always run high during the holidays (doubly so when you’re pregnant). It’s hard to take a night off when the demands of the season pull you in every direction, but that’s when you need it the most. Try to make some time for self-care activities, such as:
- Doing prenatal yoga
- Going for a walk
- Meditating
- Starting a journal
- Spending alone time with your partner
- Making holiday crafts
- Going to “ooh” and “ahh” at some Christmas lights
Pick and choose where you want to indulge
Something special happens when loved ones gather around good food, twinkling lights, and hot spiced cider. It’s the perfect formula for making lasting, treasured memories, but those good times can also be hard on your stomach. Keep yourself feeling healthy this holiday season by practicing mindfulness about your food and drink choices.
Try to balance rich, buttery, or sugary foods with vegetables, whole grains, and other healthy options. (Definitely stay away from foods that aren’t safe to eat while pregnant.) And don’t forget to have a mocktail or two!
Accept help when it’s offered, and don’t feel bad about it!
If your friends or family offer to help you during your pregnancy, they want to support you, so sit back and relax! It may feel awkward to accept help when you’re used to handling things on your own, but it’s worth it for your health and your baby’s. Plus, your loved ones will feel great about helping you out!
Plan ahead for safe travel
December is one of the busiest months for travel as everyone hits the road (or the sky) to see friends and family for the holidays. Long-distance travel is generally safe during pregnancy until around week 36, even though it may not be very comfortable. When making travel plans, loop in your healthcare provider so they can help you travel safely during pregnancy.
Most of all, remember to enjoy yourself this holiday season!
The holidays are a magical time to be pregnant. You can surround yourself with people who love you and can’t wait to meet your little one while eating delicious food and enjoying all the hot cocoa your heart desires. Just make sure your mental and physical health don’t take a backseat to the holiday festivities. ‘Tis the season to put yourself first!
Psst: Fitting in ultrasound appointments around the holidays is tricky. Our Juno Birch™ Fetal Gender Test can help you learn your baby’s sex without ever leaving your house!
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Please note: JunoDx.com and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
