Pregnancy is NOT an illness!

In this day and age of women empowerment, it's perplexing to see the number of women who treat pregnancy as an illness that requires special care.  True, there are actual pregnancy complications that endanger the life of mother or baby but those instances are rare.  The majority of pregnancies end in a happy and healthy outcome for both mother and baby.

Pregnancy is NOT an illness.  Our bodies were made to nurture and protect a growing baby inside us.  Women have been giving birth since the beginning of time and there doesn't seem to be any indication that this very normal process is going to end soon.  We are not an endangered species.  :)

So, with that in mind, it's wise to remember that life goes on.  An active, healthy mother-to-be is more likely to have an easier pregnancy, labor and delivery and quicker recovery.  Normal activities can and should be maintained.  Just as the athlete trains for peak performance, your pregnancy gives you nine months to "train" for the event of delivery.

Listen to your doctor.  Eat healthy.  (You AREN'T eating for two full grown adults!)  Exercise.  Join an exercise class if you don't feel motivated.  Read up on what is normal and what is not.  Be informed about your body and your growing baby.  Include your husband so he is informed too.

There are definite discomforts associated with being pregnant but if you remember that they're a normal effect of your changing body, they are more tolerable.  Take care of yourself and enjoy the miracle that is taking place inside you.  The reward for your efforts will be a happy, healthy baby and a happy, healthy YOU!