Looking Good

In pregnancy most women find that the condition and appearance of their hair and skin actually improves. This is due to an increased amount of hormones and blood flow around the body giving the “mum to be” a healthy glow. For others however, the pregnancy can be exhausting as they struggle to come to terms with morning sickness, swollen ankles and mood swings. No matter what your situation it is, important for you to take the time to relax and look after yourself.

Tips for Looking and Feeing Good when you are Pregnant.

• Skin care: It is good idea to moisturise your face and body throughout the pregnancy, to prevent the skin getting too dry. Massaging a natural body lotion or oil into the body may help to reduce your chance of getting stretch marks.
• It is advisable to pay extra attention to your personal hygiene as there is a tendency to sweat more when you are pregnant. Try to avoid scented soaps and shower gels that might irritate the skin.
• Get a good haircut.  This will really make a difference to how you look and feel about yourself and no matter how tired you are.
• Get a New Look: As your bump gets bigger you may have to go shopping for new clothes (that’s the fun part!). Cheaper high street shops have lots of styles to suit you when you when you are pregnant. Allow for your growing bump and your increased bust size. It might the time to experiment with a different look or style that you would not have tried before.
• Specialised maternity wear. There are specialised maternity sections in most department stores so it might be worth having a look.
• Layer Up You may even feel warmer than usual even in cold weather. It is best to wear a few lightweight layers that can be removed easily, rather than one big chunky layer.
• Get Fitted. A good fitting bra is high on the priority list, as your breasts are increasing in size continuously throughout the pregnancy. If you are planning to breastfeed it is wise to buy a front opening bra at about 36 weeks so you can have it with you in the hospital after the birth.
• Feet first: It is best to wear comfortable shoes for everyday wear and save the heels for when you have a special occasion, or when you do not have to walk very far.
• Sleep: It may be difficult to get a full night's sleep, especially in the final stages of pregnancy. Make up for this by having a “catnap” during the day. It is amazing what 20-30 minutes can do.
• Relax: If you cannot catnap, try to relax on the couch with your legs and feet up and listen to some music, read a book or magazine. This quiet time is precious as it will be more difficult to get it after the baby is born. A nice bath is a great way of winding down at the end of the day.
• Gentle exercise: A walk in the fresh air, a gentle swim or pregnancy yoga all help to keep the blood flowing and make you feel better afterwards. Don’t over do it, and seek advice form your doctor if you are unsure.
• Pamper yourself: A back massage or a facial is a nice indulgence, especially if someone wants to treat you. Remember always inform your therapist that you are pregnant as some aromatherapy oils have to be avoided in pregnancy.
• Be Positive: Try to stay positive. Make a date with a friend - you can still go to the cinema, or go for a coffee and a chat. Getting dressed up and going out and about can be a good distraction.