First, let go of the myth that you’re “eating for two”. You’re eating as normal. It’s just that you have to keep in mind that your baby will take what

it needs and leave you the rest. This is why you need to get plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and drink lots (and lots) of water (and take a

prenatal vitamin, of course). This will help to keep your energy levels up. There are some things that you should avoid eating. Deli meat contains listeria, which could result in

a miscarriage. Fish that has mercury in it (like swordfish and mackerel) could lead to brain damage. Raw eggs could expose you to salmonella. So what you can you eat? More than

you think. Click here for a list.

One of the most challenging things about being pregnant is trying to get into a comfortable position while you’re in bed. The first trimester? No biggie. But once you hit

around 5-6 months, it starts to get weird. For the record, it’s best to sleep on your left side. That will significantly increase how much blood will get to your

placenta. In order to give your body the support that it needs, invest in a pregnancy pillow. It will help to prevent neck and back pains. One of the best

inventions ever for a pregnant mommy!

By the time you reach your third trimester, it will be time to take a birthing class. One that a lot of women enjoy is Hypnobabies. Something that’s

taught in it is that moms should put themselves into a “bubble of peace”. What’s that? When you’re pregnant, everyone under the sun is going to have advice on what

you should and should not do. Most folks mean well, but it can still be stressful. A bubble of peace means putting yourself in the head space to filter out what you

don’t need. It’s OK to be what some might consider selfish while you’re pregnant. The last thing you need is to be stressed out. Avoid whatever, and whomever, will get

you there.

The internet is a powerful tool. It’s also something that can overwhelm you to tears if you’re not careful. Joining a couple of pregnancy online groups to give you some

moral support is fine. But don’t overdose on research. Yes, even with your laptop and smartphone, you need to create a bubble of peace. Otherwise, all of the info could

end up freaking you out and possibly make you paranoid. What you really need to know, ask your doctor. They know you personally and have your best interest in mind.

Rest is what helps your body to rejuvenate itself. You’re going to need plenty of it while you’re pregnant. The good thing about this point is, for the most part,

your body will let you know when it’s time to take a nap or turn in for the evening. But because each trimester comes with its own physical challenges, click

here to get some awesome sleep schedule tips.

You might’ve heard that sex in your final weeks of pregnancy can kick start labor. Well, yes and no. There are ingredients in sperm that can help to speed the process

along, but you would need A LOT of sperm for that to happen! That doesn’t mean that there aren’t a lot of reasons to still get it on! Sex while

pregnant burns calories, improves the quality of your sleep, boosts up your immune system, strengthens your pelvic floor (which can help you to avoid many postpartum symptoms) and can also

give you really intense orgasms! It’s a proven way to make pregnancy so much easier. Especially if you’re a first-time mom!