By the time I got to the last month of my pregnancy, I thought I was an expert. After all, I’d already been pregnant for many months and read all the books. And then… everything changed. Well not everything, but a lot. My feet swelled up and my ankles disappeared, and my hips and pelvis hurt like crazy as these ligaments prepared for labor. My heartburn and indigestion increased too. Luckily, I had my partner around to help pamper me and my mom to show me some tried and true ways to make this last month a little more comfy. Here's what I learned:
- Go Swimming: If you’re near a pool, beach, spring, or river, go swimming! The gentle exercise is great for your tired and achey body. It’s the one place I actually felt graceful and like my old self during the last few weeks of my pregnancy.
- Nap During the Day: If you are already in your last month of pregnancy, I probably don’t have to tell you this. For those who aren’t quite there yet, when your baby’s head finally drops, the aches and fatigue can really go up. Sleep becomes important for helping your stressed-out body recover.
- Put Your Feet Up, Literally: Top Mommy Blogs bloggers recommend buying several pillows (think 5-10), to make it easier to arrange your feet when you’re sitting or lying down. Propping them up will reduce swelling.
- Take Baths: As the baby shifts more pressure gets put on your thigh region, and you’re especially susceptible to hemorrhoids and general discomfort. Taking warm baths will help soothe this area of your body.
- Assemble Your Hospital Bag: Pamper yourself by focusing on the birth and making your time in the hospital as smooth as possible. Pack your favorite robe, fuzzy socks, and comfy slippers. Take time to decide what you’ll wear on the way home and pick up any toiletries that will make you feel better while in the hospital—a little makeup, your hairbrush, favorite lotion, and deodorant are all good options. Reading material, such as an e-reader, magazines, or books, as well as an iPod can keep you entertained during the time between contractions. Check out Sonogram Technician for pregnancy and birthing blogs with more tips for packing your hospital bag.
- Get a Reflexology Pedicure: Whether you head to a spa or have your partner give you one at home, a reflexology pedicure is a great way to relieve your aching feet and possible some of your body aches as well.
Sources: American Pregnancy (2012) Birth Whisperer (2010)
