The ABC’s of Pregnancy

Thought ABC’s were just for the young ones of the family? Think again. Our alphabet guide to pregnancy is proof that ABC’s aren’t just for babies.

A – Appetite. Can you say cravings? Lots of women have them during these nine months. Jessica Covell, an Edwardsville mom, loved a fudge Pop-Tart and a glass of milk at 3:00 a.m.

B – Bella Band. Essential for women who find it harder to keep their kangaroo pants up as their bellies get bigger, a Bella Band helps keep that tummy tamed. Find it at Target for less than $20,

C – Caffeine Need. A coffee a day? It might work for some, but Crystal Murphy, a certified nurse midwife at For Women Only, an OB/GYN practice in Overland Park, encourages her patients to decrease caffeine intake.

D – Doula. Meaning “woman who serves,” a doula provides continuous physical and emotional support for the mother before, during and after labor. To learn more, visit http://www.KCDoulas.org/, or call 816.523.7650.

E – Exercise. That’s right; it’s still important, even as you pack on the pounds. According to WebMD, regular exercise during pregnancy can improve posture and decrease discomforts like fatigue and backache. It can also build stamina for labor and delivery. And who doesn’t want that?

F – Folic acid. Also known as vitamin B-9, it’s something most women don’t get enough of, yet it’s important to that growing tummy. Studies show that folic acid helps prevent birth defects and spinal defects such as spina bifida, particularly.

G – Ginger chews. According to Candace Rutten, an Olathe mom whose third baby was born in June, these spicy sweets help settle queasy tummies when that dreaded morning sickness kicks in. Try Altoids or Rutten’s favorite, Target brand chews.

H – Hormones. Yep, you’ve got ‘em. And they rear their heads during these nine months. Expect bouts of impatience, tears for no reason, or once-unobtrusive odors you all of a sudden can’t stand. Covell stopped wearing perfume and chewing gum.

I – Infant carrier. The styles of this baby essential are many. So are the occasions for which to use one. In the weeks after my son was born, I used it when cooking dinner, grocery shopping, even hiking at a local state park.

J – Journal. Practically every mother I’ve talked to wishes she had kept a journal during those nine long months. A journal can be both a tool and a comfort. There is no one way to do it. I started a blog. Others keep a notebook. The options are limitless.

K – Kegels. These pelvic floor exercises are super for boosting muscle strength in the areas where you’ll need them most when it comes time to push. Some are so easy you can do them while sitting at a red light. Visit http://www.AmericanPregnancy.org/LaborNBirth/KegelExercises.htm for suggestions of exercises to try.

L – Laughter. Sometimes, you just gotta laugh. Like when you eat an entire jar of pickles, or you put your car keys in the fridge. “We call it placenta brain,” says Murphy, of the sudden forgetfulness and quirky behaviors pregnant women experience. In the torment of emotions, it’s good to make light of the silly stuff.

M – Maternity clothes. A shopping trip is well worth it. “Women basically want to look like they’re not [wearing] maternity clothes,” says Covell, the assistant manager at About Nine Months in Lenexa. Form-fitting shirts, black dresses and leggings are selling fast, she says.

N – Naps. Lots of them. Pregnancy is a time in your life when rest is essential, according to Murphy. Her suggestion: get eight hours of sleep a night, and if you’re tired during the day, take a nap. Your body needs it.

O – Obstetrics and gynecology doctor (OB/GYN). You should have a doctor you can trust and with whom you feel comfortable. After all, you’re dealing with some pretty sensitive stuff.

P – Pillows. Move over, men of the house! Now is the time when mommies-to-be get the bulk of the bed. A pillow for the belly. Another for the knees. One for the back. Men, rest easy (if you can). This, too, shall pass.

Q – Queasy. Oh, morning sickness, where do you come from? No one knows for sure. And don’t be misled by the name: that queasy feeling can kick in at any time of day.

R – Registry. Creating a baby registry can be totally exciting for some and a daunting task for others, like me. There is so much to think about. Grab your hubby or a gal pal and explore the aisles together. Good places to start are Target or Babies R Us.

S – Shower. Having the items you need for a little one is essential, and having fun while you’re pregnant is, too. Ask a family member or close girlfriend to host a baby shower for you, if you don’t have one on your calendar.

T – Therma Care pads. These disposable heating pads, which cost about $7 for a pack of three at any grocery store or pharmacy, are ideal for on-the-go women whose growing bellies cause them aches and pains.

U – Urinary Tract Infections. It’s true. According to Murphy, UTIs are common during pregnancy. Extra pressure on the bladder sometimes makes it harder to empty. Swig plenty of fluids, and call your doc if your symptoms are unbearable.

V – Visits from family and/or friends. It’s imperative to have some post-birth support lined up well before you go into labor. Oftentimes, family will offer to help. But don’t be afraid to ask for help during this time if you need it. Community is crucial during a time when everything in and around you is changing.

W – Water. This is a biggie, ladies. Drink plenty of it. Exercise in it (water aerobics, anyone?). Take warm (not hot) baths to soothe aches.

X – X chromosome. Remember high school biology? These little suckers – one or two – play a crucial part in determining the sex of your baby. Expect to find out about 20 weeks into your pregnancy whether you’re having a girl or a boy – unless you choose to wait.

Y – Yoga. For some mommies-to-be, yoga is an essential practice during pregnancy. It helps restore a sense of balance and gives attention to muscles through a holistic approach. Prenatal classes are offered across the Metro area.

Z – Zest. It’s what happens in the second trimester. “I had a lot more energy,” Covell says. Plus, because women are attuned to their changing bodies, they are better prepared to handle its needs. “You kind of get that second burst,” Murphy says.

Kate Meadows has lived in Wyoming, California and Kansas with her husband, son and dog. She still loves Therma Care pads and warm baths.