Women in the final stages of pregnancy might need to avoid lengthy walking, however, due to back pain, foot pain, or poor balance. Women who need to be on bedrest also should not take walks. [5] X Research source
Swimming. Just don’t hold your breath for long periods of time![7] X Research source Prenatal yoga. Yoga is a great way for many pregnant women to maintain their strength and flexibility during pregnancy. However, not every yoga move is safe during pregnancy. For example, hot yoga and poses that involve standing for long periods of time are not recommended. Join a specialized class designed for pregnant women that is led by an experienced professional. [8] X Research source Indoor biking. Biking outdoors might be difficult for pregnant women because their balance has changed. A stationary, indoor bike, however, is a great way for women to get a good amount of cardio exercise in a safe, controlled environment. [9] X Research source
Find ways to deal with other issues common during pregnancy like heartburn.
Do not stand on ladders, chairs, or step-stools. [12] X Research source Keep both feet firmly planted on the floor at all times. Wear stability shoes. Comfortable shoes with great traction and good arch support will help keep you upright and moving gracefully. Lean against walls or heavy furniture for extra support. Don’t be afraid to find stable objects around you to help keep you balanced. Lean against a wall or sofa when you have to. Avoid standing for long periods of time. This is particularly hard on your joints and your circulation. Either sit down or walk around a little bit: do not stand motionless for more than a few minutes.
Remember that many women experience swollen feet while pregnant. You might want to consider buying shoes that are the next size up, looking for shoes that are extra wide, or finding shoes with flexible sides (such as shoes made of canvas) to accommodate this swelling. [15] X Expert Source Chloée Ohayon-CrosbyFashion Stylist Expert Interview. 24 July 2020.
Talk to a clerk at a reputable maternity shop if you require assistance finding a well-fitting bra. They should be able to measure you so you can get the support you need. Some women like wearing a sports bra after they have outgrown their regular bras but before they are ready for a maternity bra. [18] X Research source
Do not wear any slimming undergarments such as girdles or control-top pantyhose.
Dresses made out of stretch jersey that fall below the knee V-neck shirts and sweaters Shift dresses that show off your curves Skinny jeans with a maternity waist
Leggings. Just make sure you buy a larger size and that you roll the waist below your baby bump![29] X Research source Anything with an empire waist. Empire waists are a great way to stay comfortable while pregnant, or to disguise the early stages of a pregnancy if you do not want to call attention to it. [30] X Research source High-waisted tunics. [31] X Research source Maxi dresses. Be sure that you buy one in a comfortable fabric, such as a stretch jersey. [32] X Research source Wrap dresses and wrap shirts. Because you tie these yourself, you can adjust the waist as necessary as your pregnancy develops. [33] X Research source Yoga pants. These provide you with a comfortable waist. Many women who have C-sections enjoy these pants because they do not aggravate the healing incision. [34] X Research source Many of these items can be made yourself if you are an experienced sewer.
It is also possible for you to make your own maternity bands in order to create your own maternity wear.
If you are a fan of stripes, make sure they are vertical, not horizontal, stripes. That will help your body appear longer and leaner. If you like wearing patterned clothing, try to keep the pattern smaller and more contained. A floral cardigan might look quite nice, for example, but a paisley maxi dress will likely look garish and overwhelming. [36] X Research source
Wear bright scarves. Many maternity clothes come in dark, non-patterned colors. A scarf or shawl is a great way to get some color and patterning in to your wardrobe. Scarves also do a good job at hiding extra cleavage as your breasts grow in size. [37] X Research source Take off your rings. Many women experience swollen fingers during pregnancy. Take off any non-adjustable rings if you notice your fingers begin to get bigger: you do not want to have to cut off your rings to maintain your circulation. [38] X Research source Wear shorter necklaces. Long necklaces and pendants might fit awkwardly over your growing bust and belly. Look for shorter necklaces that call attention to your face and neck instead. [39] X Research source
Layering your clothing during pregnancy is also a great idea: you can always remove a layer of clothing if you begin to get too warm.
Be sure to talk to your doctor about any sudden symptoms you experience.
Be sure that you express your gratitude to anyone who lends you a hand during pregnancy. Always be polite and kind–especially to those who have gone the extra mile to help you.
Be vague when asked an inappropriate question about your pregnancy choices. Bland cliches that do not directly answer their question, such as “I’m just so happy to be a new parent!” or “It’s really exciting!”, might help distract someone from prying further. [44] X Research source Redirect the conversation. Tell them that you don’t want to hog the spotlight with your pregnancy and ask them how their day is going. Getting them to talk about themselves is a great way to prevent them from prying into your life. [45] X Research source Be honest when something makes you uncomfortable. Especially if you are touched without your permission, tell the person grabbing your belly that your personal space is important to you. Be firm without yelling, cursing, or being impolite. But remember that the person who touched you is the truly disgraceful person. Practice using the following phrases: “That’s between me and my doctor;” “That’s between me and my spouse/partner;” “Thank you for telling me about your experience, but everybody’s experience is different;” “We haven’t decided on a name yet [even if it’s a lie];” “We’ll see how it goes. " These are great ways to disarm some of the most common prying questions.
