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Tips for a Healthy, Natural Pregnancy

In the modern world we live in, almost everything we use includes chemicals and artificial ingredients. Understandably, many pregnant women are wary of exposing their unborn baby to harsh, unnatural substances. Here are a few simple changes I made during my pregnancy to avoid exposing my baby to harmful substances.
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In the modern world we live in, almost everything we use includes chemicals and artificial ingredients. Understandably, many pregnant women are wary of exposing their unborn baby to harsh, unnatural substances. Here are a few simple changes I made during my pregnancy to avoid exposing my baby to harmful substances.

Clean with Homemade Cleaners

Household cleaners can easily be made with ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. This not only prevents exposing your baby to harsh chemicals during your pregnancy, but it can save you some grief as well. These homemade cleaning agents are much more gentle on your skin and breathing passages when you're cleaning. They also are less likely to upset you when you're feeling queasy. As a bonus, making your own cleaners usually saves you money.

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Eat Natural, Organic Food

Eating natural food is great for your baby and it's easy to do. Most grocery stores have an organic section that sells organic food and produce. Eating natural, organic food is also a great way to stay healthy and ensure that you gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy. With an increased appetite, it can be easy to go overboard with junk food and high-calorie meals. Sticking to fresh fruit and vegetables and healthy meats can help you to stay healthy during your pregnancy.

Use Natural Remedies Instead of Medication

I found that I was plagued with headaches throughout my pregnancy. To my dismay, my doctor recommended I shouldn't take Advil, which is usually my go-to for pain relief. My doctor suggested that I try drinking more water because many headaches are caused by dehydration. I made sure I drank water often and found that my headaches disappeared entirely. On that note -- make sure to talk to your doctor about any major changes you make throughout your pregnancy. I was fortunate enough to have a doctor who helped me make decisions about my health, birthing plan, cord blood banking options, swaddling and so much more!

I also came down with a nasty cold during my pregnancy. Before becoming pregnant, I had always relied on medicated nasal spray to deal with colds or nasal pressure. Since use of medicated nasal spray is not suggested during pregnancy, I invested in a Neti-Pot and some saline packets. Using the Neti-Pot I was able to clear my nasal passages naturally. I continue to do this now whenever I get a stuffy nose since it's much less harsh on my nasal passages and just as effective.

These are some simple things you can do to have a natural and healthy pregnancy. Avoiding harsh chemicals and ingredients can help you and your baby to stay comfortable and in good health!

By Katie Moore

The Purple Fig is a community where women share personal and relatable stories; no ego, no shame. We're about life, love and all of the stuff that makes us yearn, squirm, and giggle. These stories make up the authentic and intriguing journey of a woman.

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