Do you want to feel more attractive when you are pregnant and improve your body image? You can maintain your self-image in a variety of ways while your body changes throughout pregnancy. You may feel your best by exercising, setting aside time for sleep, caring for your hair and skin, finding chic maternity clothing, and indulging in the occasional spa session. And be careful to get help from a professional if your pregnancy body image is devouring you or if you're feeling melancholy.
Chances are you've envisioned what pregnancy would feel and look like, whether you've dreamed of becoming pregnant for years or it just happened to you. The physical changes your body will go through as your child grows may excite or terrify you.
You're not alone if you're nervous about the change or fear that being pregnant would cause you to "lose your looks" - Many women discover that both during and after pregnancy, their perception of their bodies suffers.
There is no magic potion to feeling beautiful when pregnant, but the following tips can help you always look and feel your best.
Be Active
It can be difficult enough to get up off the couch when you're feeling bloated and worn out. But repress the impulse to remain idle. You'll feel more energised and like your pre-pregnancy self after even a short 10- or 15-minute stroll or session of yoga. Even some of the pregnancy-related problems you might be going through, such back discomfort and constipation, might be helped by this.
Additionally, safe activity during pregnancy encourages muscle strength, endurance, and tone. This implies that it can aid in managing your additional weight while pregnant, help you get ready for the physical demands of delivery, and make it much simpler for you to recover after giving birth.
Look into the advantages of exercise during pregnancy.
Make the Most of Your Lush Pregnant Hair
Due to pregnancy hormones, thicker, more lustrous locks are one of the benefits of pregnancy for some women. (You are simply shedding less hair than usual; you are not truly growing more.) Some ladies may observe that the texture or sheen of their hair has changed.
Accept your earth-mother vibe if you generally have thin hair that is now fuller than before. To make the most of your suddenly abundant mane, ask your hairstylist if they have any shampoos, conditioners, or other styling items to suggest.
If you typically have thick hair and are concerned that it might become unmanageable when you are pregnant, a shorter or more layered cut might be simpler to keep up. Try using side combs, headbands, and clips as well.Â
Hair texture and volume differences are not permanent; your hair will return to normal within six months of birth. So, unless you were already planning on trying out a new look, it's probably best to avoid drastic changes. Instead, work with your stylist to find a cut that flatters you while remaining true to your current style.
Also, it's generally considered safe to continue coloring your hair during pregnancy, though you may want to wait until the second trimester, when your baby's major organ systems have finished forming, to be extra cautious.
Pregnancy Staples Will Help You Update Your Wardrobe
There are so many stylish maternity clothing options these days that your biggest challenge may be staying within your budget. Maintain your personal style by assembling a small but functional pregnancy wardrobe from a few key pieces.
Maternity jeans can be worn with almost any outfit and come with elastic side panels or supportive tummy panels. Tops made of stretchy fabrics, such as Lycra, can expand to fit a full-term belly. Consider maternity wrap dresses for more formal occasions, which are both comfortable and create a flattering silhouette.
Take Care of Your Skin
The same hormones that send your emotions into overdrive during pregnancy can also wreak havoc on your skin. Your skin may look great (thanks to the pregnancy glow), or you may break out like a teen again.
If your skin problems are bothering you, there is some good news: many (but not all) skincare products are safe to use during pregnancy. Consult a dermatologist for advice on safe treatments and skin care during pregnancy. They may recommend a home remedy or over-the-counter products, or they may even prescribe a medication that is safe for expectant mothers.
If you notice darkened patches of skin on your face, you may have melasma (also known as the "mask of pregnancy"), which is caused by an increase in your body's production of the skin pigment melanin. Most women's discoloration fades gradually after delivery. Meanwhile, you can safely reduce it by using a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher every day and concealer.
A good moisturizer can work wonders for dry skin anywhere, including your expanding belly. Keeping your belly well moisturized is the best way to avoid that annoying itching as it expands. You could even try one of the belly creams that claim to prevent stretch marks. Although there is no solid evidence that they work, some mothers swear by them.
Give Yourself a Break & Take a Nice Spa Treatment
A manicure and pedicure can instantly lift your spirits and boost your self-esteem (even acrylic nails are considered safe when pregnant). Keep in mind that the fumes may cause nausea, especially if you are pregnant. Choose a legitimate salon in a well-aerated space with top-notch hygiene practices for any nail treatments.
Being pampered for an hour or two with a prenatal massage or a facial is also appealing. (Many, but not all, skincare products, including some types of peels, are safe to use during pregnancy.) Choose a spa that has practitioners who have experience treating pregnant women if you go with either of these options.
If you can't afford to go to a spa, pamper yourself at home by doing a mask and manicure or organizing a pampering get-together with a few close friends.
There isn't much research on the use of Botox or dermal fillers (such as collagen or hyaluronic acid) during pregnancy. Most practitioners recommend deferring these procedures until after the baby is born. If you're thinking about either, make sure to consult with your doctor first.
Sleep Should Be Prioritized
Sleeping during pregnancy can be especially difficult due to pregnancy aches and pains, the constant need to pee, and your growing belly. Nonetheless, a large body of research suggests that sleep is essential for mental health: Inadequate sleep has been linked to frequent mental distress (feeling mentally "not good" for at least two weeks in the past month). Sleep improvement has been shown to alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms as well as stress.
These suggestions can help you sleep better while pregnant:
- Even on weekends, keep a consistent bedtime and wake time.
- Keep all electronic devices (including your phone!) away from the bedroom.
- Make certain that your room is dark, quiet, and comfortable.
- Avoid eating large meals right before bedtime.
Your Mental Health Matters
If your changing appearance is bothering you, consider the following options:
Recognize you are not alone: According to research, more than half of pregnant women are unhappy with their body image during pregnancy. Our society is obsessed with appearance, and the pressure to look good during pregnancy is intense.
Keep your eye on the prize: While it can be difficult to watch your shape change so quickly, it is for a reason. Your body is performing an extraordinary and vital function: it is creating a new person.
Express your emotions: Talking to your partner, a friend, or a close family member can help to relieve stress.
Make use of positive self-talk: Make a pregnancy mantra or a positive phrase and repeat it frequently (especially when you're down). According to research, well-timed mantras may help improve health and relationships.
Understand that while pregnancy and motherhood change your body in significant ways, not all of these changes are permanent. You may be surprised at how quickly your body heals and recovers after giving birth.
Signing Off
Finally, keep in mind that there is assistance available. If your body image is taking over your thoughts, interfering with your daily life, or making you sad or depressed, it's critical to recognise and cope with those feelings. Negative body image during pregnancy has been linked to depression and eating disorders in studies.
Discuss your experience with your doctor or midwife, and consider requesting a referral to a mental health professional if you don't already have one. Even if you don't believe you're at risk for depression or other mental health issues, having an outsider's perspective can change how you perceive and cope with some of the more difficult aspects of pregnancy.