1. Ensure adequate rest
As your body's circulation changes – with more flow to the lower part of the body to support the uterus, the upper part of the body (eg head) can sometimes get a lower blood supply.  This can add to the tiredness and feelings of dizziness.

Suggestion: reduce your workload and speediness. Slow down! Take naps between 1-2 hours when possible.

2. Avoid stress and be happy
Chinese Medicine believes that stress can affect the Liver and the Heart and affect the circulation flow to the uterus.

Suggestion: Listen to relaxing music. Avoid noisy situations, reduce exposure to violent television/movies/heavy music. Expose yourself to the colour green – sit in the garden or a park (the colour green supports Liver function in Chinese Medicine and assists with reducing stress).

3. Reduce the amount of exercise and choose suitable exercises for pregnancy
Strenuous exercise that places pressure on the lower back and requires excessive energy is detrimental during early pregnancy.

Suggestion: Gentle exercise such as slow walking and meditation is adequate especially when you have a lack of energy. Alternatively, ask your health practitioner for specific ideas to suit your individual needs.

4. Diet
Diet is always a big issue for the beginning of the pregnancy as most women experience digestion issues.

Suggestion: Eat less and eat more frequently. Eat what you crave – as your tastes change, eat what your body is craving. Drink ginger, peppermint or lemon tea to assist with nausea and vomiting. Avoid drinking or eating cold foods straight from the fridge and freezer as cold can make lack of circulation around the abdomen and uterus.

5. Avoid intercourse or gentle intercourse
Traditionally, Chinese Medicine suggests that during the early stages of pregnancy, implantation is not very strong and the uterus is sensitive and weak. It is sensitive to pressure and stimulation. This can lead to miscarriages.

Suggestion: Avoid intercourse during the first trimester.

6. Bowel Movements
Keep your bowel movements regular – this is very important in the early stages of pregnancy as the uterus and intestines are both located in the lower abdominal area. Sluggish bowel movements will cause stagnation and pressure on the uterus and affect the blood supply. Straining to pass bowel movements will cause undue pressure on the uterus which can cause miscarriage.

Suggestion: Eating the following foods can assist with regular bowel movements – cucumber, sweet potato, celery, spinach, eggplant, tomato, banana, plums, honey, most green vegetables (for further information please read our constipation health articles).