Pregnancy
files: The last trimester
Pregnancy is divided into three
groups of three months each. The first three months (or first trimester) is the
‘taking-in’ or getting used to the idea of pregnancy and motherhood stage.
Hormones are adjusting, emotions swing from excitement to terror and your body
adapts to the needs of your growing baby. Your second trimester is the
‘holding-on’ or ‘honeymoon’ phase when hormones and emotions have settled down
and you feel special carrying new life. The third trimester is ‘letting-go’ which
means preparing your body for your baby’s exit and independence.
Motherhood is not just about giving
birth. It’s a life-long commitment. From now on, preparing for it is serious
business. Breastfeeding takes determination and commitment. Labour is hard work.
Getting ready for this mammoth task takes the dedication of a marathon runner. Ante-natal (or Lamaze) classes can help you do
this. Google to find a qualified midwife or physiotherapist in your area.
Classes must include an exercise
routine that you can follow every day. Unlike regular exercises, ante-natal
exercises are geared to strengthen muscles of your spine and pelvis when your
heavy womb puts extra strain on them, and teaches you to use the muscles you
will need to give birth. The exercise routine will not get harder either – it
will slow down as your body becomes more cumbersome closer to your delivery
date. At my ante-natal classes at our local community centre, I encouraged couples
to bring a few pillows and a little toy, and to wear comfortable leggings. The
idea of the toy was distraction and happy association. Moms put the little toy
on their tummies during breathing exercises and focused on it while practising
contraction-coping breathing techniques. The classes were fun and the couples
became friends. On labour day, moms took the little toy with them and used it
as a happy distraction. Try it. It really works.
Ante-natal exercises strengthen
internal muscles you never knew you had. Do them to your favourite music. Finish
up with relaxation, deep breathing and focusing on your baby.
You may also notice a bright yellow
liquid glistening on your nipples. This is colostrum – your baby’s first milk –
so don’t panic. Get used to handling your breasts by massaging them in the
bath. Soap your hands and cup your breast with one hand while stroking it from
the base towards the nipple with your other hand. If you feel any lumps, simply
massage them away. Keep your nipple dry and support your breasts at night with
a sleeping bra. Wear a well-supporting bra during the day. If you need to buy a
bigger size, look for the breastfeeding type. It will save the expense of
having to buy these later on.
Eat healthy too. This in not the
time to diet or to indulge in chocolate cake. Your baby’s brain is growing at a
phenomenal rate and will be equipped with most of the neurons it will ever need
by the time your baby is born. That’s why your baby needs the best nutrition you
can give. After the birth your baby’s brain will keep growing, so that by the
time he is six, his brain will be nearly adult size.
Good reason why you should
strive to give your baby the best start in life.
