It has been said that a woman's disposition during pregnancy will pass on to the baby in her womb. A happy and secure mother cultivates an optimistic attitude that is beneficial to the unborn child. Staying physically healthy with positive attitude will provide for a favorable and normal delivery.

A pregnant woman, in general, can usually carry on with her normal way of life. Although it is advised that everything she does should be in moderation. From her daily routine to the amount of rest she takes, everything should not be done in excess. She should avoid strenuous physical activities like playing basketball, tennis or horse back riding. Lifting heavy objects or even stooping should be avoided.

Engaging in moderate physical exercise is beneficial to her health. Activities like walking and gardening are especially beneficial and may actually contribute to the process of easier childbirth.

During pregnancy, she should dress in comfortable outfits that will not restrict the flow of blood through her veins. She should avoid the use of tight fitting dresses or round garters as these may interfere with the proper blood flow. She should minimize using high-heeled shoes, instead flat shoes are recommended. These will not only relax her feet but will give her proper balance as well.

The skin glands are more active during pregnancy than at any other times, that's why it is necessary to take a bath daily. Because of the additional weight and the changing physical form, a pregnant woman usually moves awkwardly. For this reason, she should take extra care during showers and in moving around the bathtub. Installing non-slip pads will give the added safety that is necessary in a pregnant woman's environment. It is also advised that she should take showers in preference to tub baths. In this way, the introduction of germs to the areas that will form the birth canal will be avoided.

Sex during pregnancy is not at all restricted, although as with any other activity, it should always be in moderation. Intimacy between husband and wife should be present, as this will give the woman, security and the needed affection. If possible the husband should accompany his wife on her every visit to the doctor. This will further strengthen their bond as they both anxiously wait for the fruit of their love to come out into the world.

Since there is a reduced mobility for a pregnant woman because of her awkward movements, changing physical form and the fatigue that she usually experiences, it is advisable for her to use the telephone to continue socializing with her friends. This will also safeguard her from contracting communicable diseases especially German measles, colds and flu.

The increase in size and weight is normal for a pregnant woman. This is brought about by an increase in the size of her breasts, uterus and some other muscles, not to mention the growing fetus in her womb. During pregnancy, the woman's food intake also increases to nourish both herself and the developing fetus. However, there is only an acceptable percentage of weight growth that is considered to be within normal range. Beyond this, childbirth might be difficult because of an overweight baby and some complications might arise. Besides, she may not be able to go back to her regular weight after childbirth. Weight increase is determined by the mother's food intake and the amount of exercise she engages in. On the other hand, lack of nutrients caused by inadequate diet will also interfere with the normal development of the child. Caution is required in order to avoid these two extremes. Proper diet is therefore necessary to have a healthy pregnancy. Experts and nutritionists advocate that a pregnant woman should nourish herself around the seven food groups. These are protein, whole grain, leafy green vegetables, yellow vegetables, citrus and other fruits, dairy products and oils and fats, although in moderation only.

Smoking is one habit an expectant mother should stop. According to studies, premature births are prevalent among smoking mothers as compared with non-smoking moms. It also shows that birth weight is usually below normal in babies coming from smoking mothers. The vitality of the unborn child is usually reduced with smoking.

Therefore, for an expectant mother, staying healthy in mind and body is essential for a normal and healthy delivery. A happy mother will bear a happy child, although this has not yet been proven clinically but a person's positive outlook and attitude can influence her state of health. Stay happy, healthy and proudly welcome your child with optimism and joy.