They say; laughter is one of the best medicines. Surely it is! It relieves stress, brings you to the moment, and uplifts you. Laughing during pregnancy is even more important.

The mental and physical benefits of laughing benefit the mother and the baby. So, should you laugh loudly during pregnancy? Yes, laugh as long as you feel like doing it. Carrying a baby for 280 days or 40 weeks is a magical journey. And you deserve all the love, laughter, and care. 

So, let’s look at all the benefits of laughing during pregnancy for you and your baby.

How Laughing Affects Baby Development

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Here are some ways in which laughing in pregnancy benefits the baby:

Boosts the Development of Baby

According to the studies, hope and happiness positively affect the baby. It results in better prenatal care, which boosts the baby’s development. If you are around loved ones, are positive and have a pregnancy full of laughter, you are doing the best for your baby.

Pregnancy is a roller coaster where you may feel energetic, happy, and cheerful on some days. But on some days, you feel low, fearful and tense. It’s okay to acknowledge the maternity moments and embrace joys and challenges. But gradually you can try to laugh a bit more to be happy.

Creates a Bond With Mother

Many studies have shown that foetuses respond to maternal voice, touch and laughter. It develops the bond with the mother in the womb. When you laugh, it gives a sense of joy to the baby. They recognize your voice, touch and can sense you. Therefore having a good time full of positivity is best for the mother and the baby.

Strengthens Nervous System 

Of course, a healthy diet and staying active are important for the baby’s overall development. But, if you are happy and laugh more, it triggers the generation of brain cells in that area. This makes the baby’s nervous system strong and intelligent.

It Helps to Prevent Premature Delivery

Preterm labour begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. This can result due to many conditions. But, it’s been researched that happy mothers have fewer chances of preterm delivery. Good laughter and healthy pregnancy can help you manage the conditions which may lead to preterm labour. 

Benefits of Laughing During Pregnancy for Women

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Here are some amazing benefits of laughing for pregnant women:

It Helps to Manage Pregnancy Stress and Related Conditions

There are lots of hormonal fluctuations during various stages of pregnancy. Also, you may feel anxious, stressed, fearful or tense from time to time. But a good laugh can help you manage it. If you are positive and laughing, you can make the signs of stress which also extends to postpartum time. 

Manages Blood Pressure

An elevated blood rate is common in pregnant women. But, with a good laugh and a happy atmosphere, you can manage it. Also, in a study, it was found that laughing during pregnancy helps to manage blood pressure. 

So, laugh as much as you want and regulate the healthy blood pressure range. Of course, other factors control it, but it can help manage it a bit.

Distracts the Mom from Pregnancy Symptoms

You can distract from the pregnancy symptoms if you indulge in good laughs, happy moments, and lots of joy. A cheerful environment around you will help you easily pass the pregnancy stage.

Just like you can satisfy your unhealthy food cravings with these healthy options. In the same way, you can distract yourself with a good laugh.

Tips to Stay Happy and bring lots of Laughter

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A pregnancy full of laughter has many positive effects on the mother and baby. So, build a very happy atmosphere around you. When you feel low, you can take your time and talk to your loved ones. It’s very important to feel, acknowledge and deal with every feeling. To help you, here are some tips to gradually bring lots of laughter to you and your baby:

• Be around the people you love.
• You can watch some comedy and the shows that make you laugh the most.
• Read comics.
• Hang out with your friends. Quality time with buddies means lots of laughter and old memories.
• You can also practise laughter yoga under the guidance of experts. A study says that it calms and distresses the mothers. Also, it leads to a lot of benefits for mother and baby.

So, Keep laughing

Pregnancy is surely the most special phase of any mother and couple. Everyone has individual symptoms and factors that set the course of their pregnancy. However, you can follow the essential tips for a healthy pregnancy to elevate your journey.

The key is eating healthy, staying active, and being around your loved ones. Also, remember to stay in touch with your doctor and refer to expert advice for trying anything new. So, stay smiling and laughing during pregnancy.

Are you facing difficulty in conceiving even after trying successfully for more than 4 to 6 years?

If yes, then you should visit the nearest maternity hospital in your area for a checkup. One of the reasons for not conceiving can be the presence of adhesions in the tubes. In this case, the doctor may recommend a laparoscopy.

What is Laparoscopy?

It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that has revolutionized the field of medicine. It’s numerous benefits and high success rates have become increasingly popular in various fertility centres. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding laparoscopy that need to be addressed.

In this blog, we will debunk the top myths about laparoscopy and will share the real facts.

#1 Myth: Laparoscopy is a risky procedure

Fact: One of the most common misconceptions about laparoscopy is that it carries significant risks. But, the truth is that laparoscopy is considered a safe surgical procedure when performed by experienced surgeons or gynaecologists in a well-equipped facility. Also, the risks of complications, such as infection or bleeding, are relatively low compared to traditional open surgery. Choosing a reputable clinic or the best maternity hospital near you ensures the highest standards of safety and care.

#2 Myth: Laparoscopy is only used for diagnostic purposes

Fact: While laparoscopy is indeed a valuable diagnostic tool, it is also widely used for therapeutic purposes too. In gynaecology, laparoscopy allows doctors to treat various conditions, such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, adhesions, and tubal blockages. Moreover, the surgeon can also visualize the patient’s internal organs to perform precise surgical interventions, including removal of abnormal tissue, cyst drainage, or tubal repair. So, laparoscopy is not limited to diagnosis alone.

#3 Myth: Laparoscopy is a painful procedure

Fact: Unlike traditional open surgery, laparoscopy involves making small incisions of about 1 cm, significantly reducing post-operative pain. Also, the small incisions result in less tissue damage, leading to faster recovery and minimal discomfort. Additionally, for laparoscopic procedures, doctors often use safe gas to create space, which might cause temporary shoulder pain due to gas pressure on the diaphragm. However, this discomfort is temporary and can be managed with prescribed medications.

#4 Myth: Laparoscopy requires a longer hospital stay

Fact: Another misconception is that laparoscopy requires an extended hospital stay. On the contrary, one of the advantages of laparoscopy is its shorter hospitalization period compared to open surgery. Most laparoscopic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home on the same day or within a day or two. The procedure’s minimal invasiveness promotes faster recovery, enabling patients to resume their daily activities sooner.

#5 Myth: Laparoscopy leaves visible scars

Fact: Laparoscopy involves making small incisions, usually less than a centimetre in size. These incisions are carefully placed in inconspicuous locations to minimize scarring. Over time, the scars fade and become barely noticeable. Compared to open surgery, where larger incisions are made, laparoscopy offers the advantage of reduced scarring and improved cosmetic outcomes.

#6 Myth: Laparoscopy is only suitable for young patients

Fact: Laparoscopy is a versatile surgical technique that can be performed on patients of various age groups. While it is commonly associated with fertility treatments in younger patients, laparoscopy can be equally beneficial for older patients. Age alone is not a determining factor for eligibility. The decision to undergo laparoscopy should be based on individual health conditions and the advice of a medical professional.

#7 Myth: Laparoscopy increases the risk of complications during pregnancy

Fact: Laparoscopy is generally considered safe during pregnancy when performed by experienced surgeons. However, doctor assess the risks and benefits on a case-by-case basis. In certain situations, such as emergency surgeries or high-risk pregnancies, laparoscopy may be avoided or modified to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Consulting with a specialist in a reputable maternity hospital like Dr Sodhi’s Health Care and IVF Centre can help provide the best guidance.

#8 Myth: Laparoscopy always requires general anaesthesia

Fact: While general anaesthesia is commonly used during laparoscopy, it is not the only option. Local anaesthesia with sedation may be employed in certain cases, depending on the procedure and the patient’s condition. Local anaesthesia reduces the risks associated with general anaesthesia and facilitates a quicker recovery. The choice of anaesthesia will be determined by the surgical team based on the patient’s needs and safety considerations.

Final Words

It is crucial to rely on accurate information and consult with experienced medical professionals like Dr. Lavleen Kaur Sodhi when considering laparoscopy. The best maternity hospital in Mohali can offer specialized care and guidance tailored to your needs. Laparoscopy remains a safe, effective, and patient-friendly approach that improves surgical outcomes and enhances your chances of conceiving.

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with a myriad of emotions, physical changes, and anticipation. From the moment a woman discovers she is expecting, a world of wonder opens up as she embarks on the incredible adventure of motherhood. Maternity moments, both big and small, shape this transformative experience, allowing expectant mothers to embrace the joys and challenges that come with carrying a precious life within. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of pregnancy, from the profound joys to the inevitable challenges, and discuss how women can navigate this remarkable time with grace, confidence, and self-care.

The Joys of Pregnancy

The joys of pregnancy are abundant, offering expectant mothers a unique sense of fulfillment and connection. From feeling the first fluttering movements of the baby to hearing the precious sound of their heartbeat during prenatal check-ups, each moment brings immense joy and wonder. The anticipation of meeting their little one and experiencing the indescribable bond that comes with motherhood fills expectant mothers with excitement and a deep sense of purpose. Maternity moments such as creating a nursery, shopping for baby essentials, and preparing for the arrival of a new family member add to the joyous anticipation of motherhood.

Embracing the Physical Changes

Pregnancy brings with it a myriad of physical changes as a woman’s body nurtures and nourishes the growing life within. While these changes can be challenging at times, embracing them with a positive mindset can lead to a deeper appreciation of the incredible journey. Maternity moments like feeling the baby’s kicks, watching the belly grow, and marveling at the body’s ability to create life can help expectant mothers celebrate their bodies and the miracles they are bringing into the world.

Self-Care and Emotional Well-being

Taking care of one’s emotional and mental well-being is crucial during pregnancy. Maternity moments can be an opportunity for expectant mothers to prioritize self-care practices that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and nurture emotional well-being. Engaging in activities such as prenatal yoga, meditation, journaling, and connecting with other expectant mothers in support groups can provide a sense of community and emotional support. Celebrating maternity moments through self-care allows women to embrace the challenges with resilience and maintain a positive mindset throughout their pregnancy journey.

Navigating the Challenges

While pregnancy is a beautiful experience, it is not without its challenges. From morning sickness and physical discomfort to hormonal changes and emotional ups and downs, expectant mothers face a range of hurdles. However, it is important to remember that these challenges are temporary and a part of the transformative process of becoming a mother. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, maintaining open communication with loved ones, and practicing self-compassion are vital in navigating these challenges. Embracing maternity moments during difficult times, such as finding solace in quiet moments, sharing concerns with a supportive partner, and celebrating small victories, can provide a sense of strength and resilience.

Building a Supportive Network

Creating a strong support network is essential during pregnancy. Surrounding oneself with loved ones, understanding healthcare providers, and participating in childbirth education classes can help expectant mothers feel supported and informed. Maternity moments, like attending baby showers, prenatal classes, and bonding with other expectant mothers, offer opportunities to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable advice. Building a supportive network allows women to navigate the joys and challenges of pregnancy with a sense of camaraderie and reassurance.

Preparing for Motherhood

Pregnancy serves as a preparation period for the exciting journey of motherhood with best maternity hospital. Maternity moments such as attending parenting workshops, reading books on childcare, and planning for the postpartum period enable expectant mothers to gather knowledge and feel empowered as they step into their role as a mother. Taking the time to educate oneself, make informed decisions, and create a nurturing environment sets the foundation for a smooth transition into the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Here are some essential tips to help you navigate this beautiful phase of life:

1. Educate Yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care. Attend childbirth education classes, read books, and consult reliable online resources to gather information about the various stages of pregnancy, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, and newborn care. Knowledge will empower you and boost your confidence as you prepare for motherhood.
2. Seek Prenatal Care: Schedule regular prenatal check-ups with a healthcare provider you trust. Prenatal care is crucial for monitoring your health and the well-being of your baby throughout pregnancy. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice, undergo recommended tests and screenings, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
3. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize your health and well-being by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stay physically active with exercises approved by your healthcare provider. Get enough rest and practice stress management techniques. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs that can harm your baby’s development.
4. Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, and fellow mothers. Connect with other expectant mothers through prenatal classes, support groups, or online communities. Having a support system in place will provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of camaraderie during your journey into motherhood.
5. Plan for Finances: Assess your financial situation and plan for the additional expenses that come with raising a child. Create a budget, review your insurance coverage, and consider saving for future needs such as medical expenses, childcare, and education. Research and understand the benefits and financial assistance available to new parents in your country or region.
6. Prepare Your Home: Create a safe and nurturing environment for your baby by preparing your home in advance. Baby-proof your living spaces, set up the nursery with essential items such as a crib, changing table, and storage for baby supplies. Stock up on necessary supplies like diapers, baby clothes, and feeding essentials.
7. Embrace Self-Care: Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial during this transformative time. Prioritize self-care activities that help you relax and recharge, such as practicing mindfulness, getting regular massages, enjoying a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it is essential for your overall well-being and your ability to care for your baby.
8. Attend Parenting Classes: Consider enrolling in parenting classes or workshops that provide practical guidance on newborn care, breastfeeding, and infant CPR. These classes offer hands-on learning, expert advice, and an opportunity to connect with other parents-to-be. The knowledge and skills gained from these classes will boost your confidence in caring for your newborn.
9. Communicate with Your Partner: If you have a partner, ensure open and honest communication throughout the pregnancy journey. Discuss your expectations, fears, and aspirations as parents. Involve your partner in prenatal appointments, decision-making processes, and preparations for the baby’s arrival. Building a strong partnership will provide mutual support and strengthen your bond as you embark on this new chapter together.
10. Trust Your Instincts: Remember that every pregnancy and parenting journey is unique. Trust your instincts and have confidence in your ability to make decisions that are best for you and your baby. Seek advice and support when needed, but ultimately, trust yourself as you navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Conclusion

Maternity moments encompass the entire spectrum of emotions experienced during pregnancy, from overwhelming joy to occasional challenges. Embracing these moments with grace, self-care, and a supportive network can help expectant mothers navigate the remarkable journey of pregnancy. Each moment, whether big or small, contributes to the profound joy and fulfillment that comes with bringing a new life into the world. By cherishing these maternity moments, expectant mothers can create lasting memories and enter motherhood with a deep sense of love, strength, and gratitude.

Mother’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate and honour the incredible mothers in our lives. If you have a pregnant woman in your life who will soon embark on the beautiful journey of motherhood, this Mother’s Day presents a unique opportunity to show your love and support. To help you choose the perfect gift, we have curated a list of thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas that will make her feel cherished and appreciated during this special time.

Maternity Spa Day

Treat the expectant mother to a day of relaxation and pampering at a maternity spa. Book her a prenatal massage, a facial, or a pedicure session designed to provide comfort and rejuvenation. This gift will help her unwind, relieve any pregnancy-related discomfort, and promote overall well-being.

Pregnancy Journal

Gift her a beautifully designed pregnancy journal where she can record her thoughts, feelings, and milestones throughout her pregnancy journey. This thoughtful gift will allow her to document memories, capture precious moments, and create a keepsake that she can cherish for years to come.

Comfortable Maternity Clothing

Pregnancy comes with physical changes and a growing belly, making comfortable clothing a necessity. Surprise her with a selection of stylish and comfortable maternity clothes that are designed to accommodate her changing body. Opt for soft fabrics, stretchable waistbands, and fashionable designs to help her feel confident and comfortable throughout her pregnancy.

Pregnancy Pillow

Help her get a good night’s sleep with a pregnancy pillow specially designed to support her growing belly and provide comfort during sleep. These pillows offer extra support to the back, hips, and legs, promoting better spinal alignment and reducing pregnancy discomfort. Choose a pillow that suits her sleeping preferences and provides the right level of support.

Personalized Jewelry

Consider gifting her a piece of personalized jewellery that celebrates her journey into motherhood. It could be a necklace, bracelet, or pendant engraved with her name, the baby’s name, or a special message. This sentimental gift will serve as a constant reminder of the love and joy she brings as a mother.

Maternity Photoshoot

Capture the beauty of her pregnancy with a professional maternity photoshoot. Book a session with a photographer who specializes in maternity photography, and create timeless memories of this special time in her life. The photographs will serve as a precious memento and can be shared with family and friends.

Spa at Home

Create a spa-like experience at home by curating a gift basket filled with self-care items. Include items such as scented candles, bath salts, body oils, and face masks. Add a cosy robe and slippers to complete the pampering package. This gift will allow her to indulge in relaxation and self-care at her convenience.

Baby Essentials Kit

Prepare her for the arrival of the baby by putting together a baby essentials kit. Include items such as onesies, blankets, diapers, wipes, baby lotion, and baby-friendly bath products. This practical gift will help her prepare for the baby’s arrival and demonstrate your support and thoughtfulness.

Babymoon Getaway

Plan a babymoon getaway for the expectant parents to enjoy some quality time together before the baby arrives. Choose a relaxing destination that offers comfortable accommodations, serene surroundings, and amenities suitable for expectant mothers. This getaway will allow them to relax, rejuvenate, and create lasting memories before their lives change with the arrival of their little one.

Other Ways to Make Mommy Feel Special on Mother’s Day

Supportive Gestures: Show your support and understanding by offering to help with household chores, running errands, or organizing a nursery. Taking some responsibilities off her shoulders allows her to focus on self-care and preparing for motherhood.

Breakfast in Bed: Start her day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast served in bed. Prepare her favourite foods, such as fresh fruits, yogurt, whole grain toast, and a cup of herbal tea. This gesture will show her that you value and appreciate her, and it allows her to relax and enjoy a peaceful morning.

Babymoon Getaway

Plan a babymoon getaway to a peaceful and relaxing destination where she can unwind and spend quality time with her partner. Choose a location that offers comfortable accommodations, prenatal-friendly activities, and serene surroundings. This getaway allows her to rejuvenate and create lasting memories before the baby arrives.

Remember, the most important aspect of making Mother’s Day special for a pregnant woman is to express your love, appreciation, and support for her journey into motherhood. Tailor the day to her preferences and needs, ensuring that she feels cherished and celebrated on this special occasion.

Are you facing trouble in conceiving naturally? If yes, then you can give try to IVF, one of the advanced technology that may fulfill your dream of becoming a parent of your own children. However, for a smooth IVF journey, you must choose the best IVF centre and maternity hospital near you. 

The IVF centre or IVF hospital is important to offer good care to you during the IVF process and pregnancy. 

With the right tools, a brief plan, and your OBGYN’s care in a good maternity hospital, your IVF journey can be absolutely smooth. Their facilities can also offer good care to you and IVF babies while providing help with clinical training. 

So, what to look for when choosing the best IVF centre in Chandigarh, Mohali, or nearby areas? Read through:

Good Hospital Care

One of the first things to see in a good IVF hospital is how well they care for the patients. Besides the regular machines and equipment, your maternity hospital should have emergency beds available. They should focus on treating patients with care and teaching them to recover/prevent any medical complications. You must also look for amenities and facilities that act as added support.

We recommend you to research the hospital as per the healthcare quality they provide. Look for the online reviews thoroughly and select a hospital that has 5-star reviews. Make sure to read the comments and see if they are genuine or not. The better the quality of hospital care, the higher the likelihood of desired health outcomes, especially if you’re getting pregnant in your late 30s.

Hygiene

Hygiene and sanitation are two important factors to consider when choosing the best maternity hospital in Tricity. When a maternity hospital is hygienic and clean, it retains its aesthetics and offers satisfaction to the patient. Also, a pregnant woman needs to stay away from infections or diseases, and hygiene is the only way to keep such spread at bay. 

Meanwhile, make sure to look for other essentials like clean water, as it’s fundamental for a mother’s good health. That’s because dirty and stagnant water during pregnancy can lead to diseases like Malaria, Typhoid, Dysentery, and more. If it’s not managed properly, these diseases can lead to foetal death or miscarriages. So, always consider good WASH, as in Water Sanitation and Hygiene, in a maternity hospital. 

Doctors and Healthcare Professionals

Your pregnancy journey is incomplete without a good doctor’s assistance. That’s why always select a maternal hospital with a professional healthcare assistance team. If you have a gynaecologist of your own, then follow their instructions. However, if not, look for a maternity hospital where you can find the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh. 

Make sure to quickly review the hospital booklets and check the qualifications of the gynaecologist. Always choose gynaecologists that have long-term experience in treating patients. Besides a personal gynaecologist, you must also check whether the hospital has a good gyno team in the emergency department. This will help you get immediate assistance when your regular gynaecologist is not available. 

Hi-tech Laboratories and Technology

While choosing the best maternity hospital in Chandigarh, look for the best laboratories, technologies, and technical assistance. That’s because a pregnant woman requires recurrent tests for consistent health monitoring. So, if you don’t choose a maternity hospital with hi-tech laboratories, you may have to go to other centres for the same. 

Jot down all the maternal hospitals of your city in one place, and then compare them as per their medical assistance. Choose the one that has the best laboratory and technical assistance, so you wouldn’t have to run back and forth to multiple hospitals during emergencies.

IVF Facilities

Maternal hospitals should also have professional IVF facilities to help with fertility, child conception, and related procedures. These centres could be helpful for those who are conceiving through the IVF process. Make sure to select the hospitals with the best IVF centre in Chandigarh as per the reviews and research. Also, check for their success rate and select the ones with the highest IVF success rate of all time. 

A good IVF clinic has a team of experienced professionals specialized in infertility treatments. As these treatments are expensive, you shouldn’t miss out on expert assistance on these procedures. Their professional assistance can guide you through the foods to avoid during IVF, diets, and myths for IVF treatment for a safe procedure.

Insurance Coverage

You must also choose a maternity hospital that comes under your insurance coverage. As there can be any clinical possibilities during pregnancy, you never know how much your bill is going to be. 

If your delivery requires any extra procedure, your hospital bills could be more massive than you can imagine. In such cases, insurance coverage can be a lifesaver. So, make sure to select a maternity hospital that falls under the scope of your medical coverage.  

Nearby Facilities and Services

One of the most crucial things to consider near maternity hospitals are extra facilities like hotels, transports, pharmacy, etc. Rather, we suggest you look for housing options besides the maternity hospital. That’s because, during the last months of the pregnancy, you never know when you may need admission for delivery. 

In such situations, if your guardian doesn’t get housing/accommodations nearby, it may take a lot of time and effort for them to travel. You may also face issues with regular checkups. Alternatively, you can look for hospitals that are near your location, so you can travel from your home whenever you want. 

Meanwhile, check for the availability of other essentials like ATM machines, money transfer services, and banks near the maternity hospital. These are for situations when you may need money and, ofcourse, you cannot carry cash all the time.  

To sum up, these were some of the things to look for when choosing a maternity hospital. Keep these things in consideration to have a smooth pregnancy journey.  

Postpartum is the phase when both you and your baby need extra surveillance and consistent monitoring. That’s because, during this phase, you recover from the delivery process, and your child gets strong to live in this beautiful world. So, you must take good care of your health and eat a nutritious diet. 

A postpartum diet must include balanced food like lean meats, fibre-rich items, low-fat dairy, vegetables, fruits, and more. Besides that, there are several other things to include in a healthy diet after giving birth. Here’s a quick overview:

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Hydration is one of the most crucial aspects during postpartum, especially for lactating mothers. That’s because lactating mothers are at high risk of dehydration. Also, hydration helps to deal with the regular body changes after childbirth. That’s why it’s not worth missing out on the same. 

Water helps to transfer nutrients to the baby. It further helps the mother to absorb and transport vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients easily. So, it’s recommended to drink water at regular intervals throughout the day. 

If not water, you can try other modes of hydration, like milk and fruit juices. While milk can be a great source of protein and calcium, pure fruit juice without any added colour, sugar or preservatives is packed with nutrients. You can choose either of them for your hydration. However, try to avoid drinks with caffeine or keep them in moderation.

Eat Fish But Not High Mercury Ones

Fishes are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and DHA, and you can definitely include them in your diet. However, stay clear of any high-mercury fish, as it can affect both you and your child’s health. When a lactating mother consumes mercury-rich fishes like mackerel, shark, swordfish and orange roughy, the mercury in them gets transferred to the breast milk. 

In fact, it’s said that breast milk consists of about one-third of the mercury in the mother’s blood. This mercury then eventually gets transferred to the infant during breastfeeding and affects their brain/nervous system development.

Instead of mercury-rich fish, you can try salmon, sardines, and lake trout. Not only are they low in mercury, but they are also quite rich in protein, vitamins B-12 and D, and more. 

Avoid Alcohol During Postpartum

You may know about the effects of alcohol during pregnancy, it’s the same for the postpartum period too. You shouldn’t drink alcohol after your delivery as it can decrease your milk production and reduce the breastfeeding duration. 

Alcohol can stay inside the body for several hours. It can eventually transfer from the mother to the baby and affect their brain and spinal development. In fact, its excessive use in mothers can also disrupt the baby’s sleep pattern and overall development. 

When the mother drinks alcohol, its concentration in her blood and breast milk is equal. This alcohol can enter the baby’s body during breastfeeding and can affect the baby’s sensitive brain, which is still in the developmental stage. So, drinking during postpartum is a big no-no! 

However, you can start moderate alcohol consumption after the first six weeks of delivery. Make sure to consult your doctor before you include alcohol (in any form) in your diet.  

Take Postnatal Vitamins

Postpartum is like recovery after pregnancy, that’s why you should add essential multivitamins to your diet during this time period. Ask your doctor whether a postnatal vitamin while breastfeeding would be beneficial for you. Take vitamins that are rich in folate, Vitamin D, DHA, and iodine. 

Your doctor may prescribe multivitamin during the breastfeeding period or beyond that, as required. If you’re not breastfeeding, it’s recommended to take postnatal vitamins until six weeks of postpartum. As postnatal vitamins can fill the dietary gaps for both you and your child, it isn’t worth missing out. However, do not self-medicate, and ask your gynaecologist about the vitamins.  

Eat Protein and Iron rich Food.

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Postpartum requires a diet rich in both protein and iron. Not only does it help you during the childbirth process, but it also adds strength to your body. It can boost cell growth and keep your immune function intact. 

The thumb rule is to add about 25 grams or five to seven servings of protein daily. However, it’s best to ask your dietitian and gynaecologist about the same. You can include food rich in protein, like seafood, eggs, soy-based products, beans, and lean meats. While you can consume protein through food, avoid taking supplements like shakes and powders.

After postpartum, you can go iron-deficient due to anaemia. This may eventually lead to health implications like fatigue, lack of strength, and depressive symptoms. That’s why you should consume iron-rich food like chicken, fish, eggs, meat, fortified grains, etc. These foods can help in quick recovery and make up for blood loss during childbirth. 

Meanwhile, avoid eating junk food and empty calories. You can satisfy your unhealthy cravings with healthy options. 

Don’t Get Overwhelmed With Your Weight Loss.

Pregnancy can make you gain a lot of weight. However, you shouldn’t go on any extreme diet immediately after your delivery. That’s because going on a vigorous diet can make you lose important nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. It can further reduce your body strength and contribute to fatigue.

Instead, wait for about eight weeks and let your body recover. Then, you can start a healthy diet with safe postpartum exercise to shed those extra kilos. You may also lose some weight automatically after delivery due to the loss of retained fluids. Additionally, breastfeeding can contribute to postpartum weight loss too. So, let your body re-adjust to its pre-pregnancy mode for healthy weight loss. 

These are some of the diet tips you can try for your postpartum period. Try out these steps for a healthy, happening, and safe postpartum.