Pregnancy is a beautiful and exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful, especially for first-time parents. Pregnancy involves significant physiological changes in the body, including hormonal changes, weight gain, and physical discomfort. During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing fetus. Hormonal changes, weight gain, and physical discomfort are just some of the signs that your body is changing; these changes that can impact a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. Fatigue, nausea, and morning sickness are common symptoms that many women experience during the early stages of pregnancy, which can make it difficult to cope with the demands of daily life.
However, with proper preparation and planning, pregnancy can be a joyful experience. In this article, we will discuss how you can prepare for your pregnancy in Singapore
Tips to ensuring a healthy pregnancy
1. Do some research and be mentally prepared
Being mentally prepared for pregnancy is just as important as being physically prepared. Pregnancy can be a roller coaster of emotions, and it’s essential to be ready for the changes that come with it. By doing some research, expectant parents can gain valuable insights into what to expect, as well as the costs involved and how to budget for a pregnancy. They can learn about the physical and emotional changes that occur and how to cope with them.
For example, understanding that morning sickness is a common symptom of pregnancy can help expectant mothers to prepare and find ways to alleviate it. Additionally, knowing about potential complications can help expectant parents to take preventative measures to avoid them. Talking to other parents and attending prenatal classes can provide additional support and information to help you feel more prepared for the journey ahead. Ultimately, being mentally prepared can help you to approach pregnancy with confidence and reduce the stress and anxiety that can come with it.
2. Maintain a good level of fitness
Maintaining fitness during pregnancy is important as it can help you stay healthy and prepare your body for the physical demands of labour and delivery. However, it’s essential to consult with your doctor or gynaecologist before starting or continuing any exercise routine. Engaging in low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help you maintain your fitness levels without putting too much strain on your body. It’s also important to listen to your body and avoid exercises that cause discomfort or pain. Remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and take breaks when needed. By maintaining fitness during pregnancy, you can improve your overall health and well-being.
3. Ensure you maintain a healthy diet
Maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is crucial for both the mother and the developing foetus. A healthy diet during pregnancy can have a positive impact on the mother’s general health, in addition to reducing the risk of complications that may arise during this time.
- Eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods: To ensure your baby gets all the nutrients needed for growth and development, aim for a variety of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
Fruits and vegetables are packed with important nutrients, so try to eat a variety of them every day to ensure you’re getting enough.
- Choose lean protein sources: Foods such as poultry, fish, eggs, and beans provide important amino acids that support your baby’s growth and development.
- Include whole grains in your diet: Whole grains such as whole grain bread, pasta, and rice provide fibre and other important nutrients such as iron and vitamin B.
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight glasses of water per day and avoid sugary drinks to stay hydrated.
- Avoid certain foods: Raw or undercooked meat, fish with high levels of mercury, unpasteurised dairy products, and cold cut or processed meats should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol: Too much caffeine can be harmful during pregnancy, so limit your intake. Alcohol should be avoided entirely.
4. Purchase maternity insurance
Maternity insurance is a must-have in Singapore. It helps to minimise out-of-pocket expenses on hospital bills associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Maternity cover typically comes with a waiting period of anywhere from 12 to 36 months. That means you’ll have to wait until that time has passed before you can access the policy’s maternity coverage benefits. Get in touch with us today about different maternity policies we have and we can also have a chat about what your options are.
Purchasing maternity insurance in advance can help you budget and plan for the costs associated with pregnancy. While it is not mandatory, it’s highly recommended for the advantages it brings. The cost of maternity care in Singapore can vary significantly, depending on the type of delivery, the hospital, and the medical procedures involved. With maternity insurance, you’ll have peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered for unexpected medical expenses.
Explore insurance plans with Expat Insurance
As you prepare for your pregnancy journey in Singapore, it’s crucial to have adequate support and protection. That’s where Expat Insurance comes in. With their comprehensive maternity insurance coverage, you can rest assured that you and your baby will be well taken care of during this time. Don’t wait until it’s too late; purchase maternity insurance from Expat Insurance at least 12 months in advance to ensure that you have sufficient coverage for all your prenatal and postnatal needs.
If you’re a business trying to provide coverage for your expectant employees, find out how you can support your team with pregnancy-friendly workplace policies.
Contact Expat Insurance today to learn more and get started on your journey towards a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.
