Taking care of your body during pregnancy: what to do and why it is important

The body goes through significant changes in each trimester of pregnancy, and being aware of this is crucial for overall well-being.

Pregnancy is one of the most extraordinary periods in a woman’s life, characterised by profound physical and emotional transformations.

In this context, taking care of one’s body is not only a wise choice, but a real act of love and investment in the short and long-term health of mother and child.

From nutrients to weight management, exercise to stress control, every aspect of body care contributes to creating a conducive environment for the healthy growth and development of the unborn child.

One of the key points of body care during pregnancy is proper nutrition as the fetus draws on the nutrients provided by the mother’s bloodstream, so it is essential to ensure sufficient intake of proteins, vitamins and minerals.

It should also be considered that moderate weight gain is an integral part of a healthy pregnancy. However, excessive weight gain can lead to complications, such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure: weight management is not only about aesthetics but has a direct impact on the mother’s health and the prevention of long-term complications.

Maintaining an adequate level of physical activity during pregnancy, in addition to controlling weight, also improves blood circulation, reduces stress, and promotes sleep.

Stress can have negative effects on maternal and foetal health: pregnancy is a time of physical and psychological changes, and finding ways to reduce stress is essential.

Relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, can be valuable allies.

Regular antenatal visits are also essential to monitor the health of the mother and baby and to identify any problems promptly, greatly improving pregnancy outcomes.

Quarter by quarter, the precautions for well-being

Every pregnancy is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that leads to profound transformations in the woman’s body, and each trimester is marked by unique stages that require specific attention.

Let’s explore, step by step, what happens and what precautions are essential to ensure the well-being of mind and body at each stage.

During the first trimester, the body experiences significant changes as the embryo develops rapidly. Many common symptoms include nausea, fatigue, and hormonal changes.

It is essential to listen to your body and respect its needs.

In particular, it is necessary to:

• drink plenty of water to combat fatigue and keep your skin hydrated;
• increase the intake of folic acid and iron to support the development of the foetus and prevent neural defects;
• indulge in tiredness, allowing yourself short naps and longer nights of sleep;
• be careful not to gain too much weight;
• abandon all unhealthy habits such as alcohol and smoking;
• start preventing the appearance of stretch marks.

The second trimester is often called the “golden period” of pregnancy: symptoms such as nausea and fatigue subside, as the body gradually adjusts to the baby’s growth.

In these months, the expectant mother should:

• be careful not to be exposed to the sun to prevent unsightly spots on the skin;
• wear comfortable clothes suitable for the new curves of the body;
• schedule examinations such as morphological ultrasound to monitor the health of the foetus;
• practice gentle physical activity such as pre-natal yoga to preserve strength and flexibility, pilates, swimming or stretching (in consultation with your gynaecologist first);
• take care of the skin by keeping it well hydrated and nourished to avoid stretch marks, exfoliate the body at least two or three times a week from dead cells, and drink a lot.

Finally, the third trimester is characterised by the rapid growth of the baby and the preparation of the body for childbirth. Physical and mental challenges can intensify, but the focus should always remain on your own well-being and that of the soon-to-be-born child.

In particular, it is essential to:

• participate in childbirth preparation courses to reduce anxiety and gain awareness about the process;
• indulge in massages to relieve muscle tension and improve sleep;
• sleep on special pillows to support your back and reduce discomfort;
• pay attention to the movements of the foetus, contractions, and promptly notify the doctor of any changes;
• continue to eat healthily;
• counteract stretch marks even more;
• do some exercise every day;
• prepare your breasts for breastfeeding.

Forte Village Resort’s exclusive Pregnant Women Program

Forte Village, a prestigious and award-winning resort in the unmissable scenery of Santa Margherita di Pula, is a true temple of well-being which, at the Acquaforte Thalasso & Spa embraced by a regenerating tropical garden, offers its guests exclusive treatments such as massage physiotherapy, mud therapy, thalassotherapy and cutting-edge technologies such as the High Performances Method.

For pregnant women, there is also the Pregnant Women Program structured over 4 days, at a cost of 2250 €, or in 7 days, at a cost of 3200 €.

Would you like to take care of yourself and your future baby in a real paradise? Discover Forte Village Resort in Sardinia