During pregnancy, your body is under an extraordinary strain. Creating a new life inside of you requires a lot of energy and it’s common to feel exhausted during the first months of pregnancy. Getting plenty of rest will help you endure the exhaustion and keep you from feeling overwhelmed because of the symptoms you will experience during these months.

Getting enough sleep

In the first months of your pregnancy you will probably sleep more hours than usual. Besides, if you experience nausea you will probably feel even more exhausted. Try to go to bed earlier than you usually do or take a nap whenever you can. Listen closely to your body when it is telling you that you need to rest.

As your pregnancy progresses, the size of your belly will probably make it more difficult for you to find a comfortable position. Many pregnant women sleep on their left side, with a pillow between their legs to take the pressure off the spine, and with another pillow between their arms. There are pillows or cushions, called pregnancy pillows, that can help you settle into this position, although you can also use a couple of fluffy cushions or pillows you may have around the house.

As your pregnancy progresses you should lie down on your left side to make blood circulation easier and to avoid compressing the vena cava.

Tired legs

You will feel that your legs are more tired than usual. The increase in your blood volume and the growing size of your belly, make blood flow more difficult, so often you will experience water retention in your legs and ankles. To improve circulation and avoid bloating remember to put your feet up whenever you can, especially if you spend long hours standing or sitting at the office.

In your office, use a stepstool or a chair to elevate your legs under the table. If you are standing at work you could use a stepstool, about ten or fifteen centimeters high where you can put your legs, alternating them.

Emotional rest

Avoiding physical stress during pregnancy is as important as avoiding emotional stress. Getting good physical rest is as important as getting emotional rest. In these months, make an extra effort to keep your mind away from problems that cause anxiety. Stop brooding; it makes you nervous and, as a result, makes you tired mentally.

Relaxation techniques may help you get the mental rest you need; from listening to soothing music with your eyes closed, to deep breathing exercises or even practicing yoga or oriental meditation techniques. Or maybe you simply need a short quiet walk in the park with your partner. It doesn’t matter which you choose, but try to find mental peace during these months.

And don’t forget your spirituality. For many Latinas, having a spiritual life is very important and now during your pregnancy, it’s a good time to practice it.

Mandatory rest

Sometimes rest is not optional during pregnancy, but a requirement, in order for your pregnancy to progress smoothly. The chance of preterm labor, carrying multiples, bleeding or low amniotic fluid levels are reasons for which your doctor may order bed rest during pregnancy. Bed rest might be difficult for some expectant moms, especially if they are used to being very active. It’s important for you to understand clearly which activities you will be able to do while being in bed and which you won’t. Ask your doctor to explain whether you can get up to go to the bathroom and shower.

Try to have a list of things you like to do and can do while on bed rest to avoid getting exasperated or isolating from the world. Talk often on the phone or have a computer close by to surf the net or reach out to friends and family, or even other moms that like you, need bed rest. You can also find forums and pregnancy chat groups.

But once the bed rest period concludes, often after having had your baby, you should get back to your regular activities slowly. Long bedrest periods require recovery too.