What's it like becoming a mother?

17 Pregnancy Do's and Don'ts That May Surprise You !

Pregnancy Dos: 

Eating a that's rich in vitamins and minerals is the best way to provide your body with all of the healthy nutrients it needs to support a growing baby. A healthy diet alone, however, may not be enough for pregnancy.

contain higher levels of certain nutrients that expectant mothers require at higher doses, such as:

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These vitamins assist with the er development of the fetus and help prevent birth defects. Your doctor can help you find a multivitamin or a series of vitamins that are best for you.

A multivitamin will usually include DHA, EPA, or both. These are that are important for your baby's proper brain development.

Don't take more than one dose of multivitamins, though. Some vitamins in higher amounts can be harmful to the baby.

Changing hormone levels, anticipation, and can make sleep elusive during your 9 months of pregnancy. Pregnancy is demanding, especially in the, and you'll need your sleep.

Take a quick snooze if you feel tired and schedule naps whenever you can. Set bedtimes and stick to them.

Aim for 7-9 hours of shut-eye each night. Fatigue is a sign that your body needs more rest, so give yourself all the sleep you can.

Gone are the days of pregnant women avoiding lifting a finger during their pregnancies: We now know that exercise is good for mama and baby.

In fact, may help you combat many of the issues that arise during pregnancy, including.

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If you regularly exercised before you became pregnant, keep it up. Talk with your doctor about any adjustments you should make to your routine, especially as you move into your second and third trimesters.

If you didn't exercise regularly before you found out you were expecting, ask your doctor about incorporating an into your day. They can guide you into a program that's safe and comfortable for you and your growing baby.

is loaded with vitamins and minerals, such as heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and iron. These are all important for both mom and baby. But undercooked or raw seafood can cause some problems.

Seafood may carry harmful bacteria and viruses, which are eliminated when thoroughly cooked. Also, pregnant women should avoid raw fish and fish that may contain high levels of.

Examples of fish containing high levels of mercury include:

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Eat a variety of seafood so you don't have a concentration of minerals from one type of fish. Eat no more than 12 ounces of fish per week.

during pregnancy is fine, as long as you don't have a complicating factor such as or another type of high-risk pregnancy.

Sex is safe with your partner right up until your water breaks. If you have discomfort you may have to try new positions. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions about the safety of intercourse during your pregnancy.

You should avoid Bikram or hot yoga, but other yoga modalities are fine when you're expecting. Seek out prenatal or gentle yoga classes that are. Instructors in these classes will know which poses are best and which you should avoid.

If you weren't doing yoga before you became pregnant, talk with your doctor before signing up for a class. While it's possible you can start, it's best to go over the risks and concerns with your doctor.