3 Expert Tips for Moving While Pregnant
Whether moving due to health-related or family reasons, this process can be a lot of work. You have to plan various aspects of the move as well as pack and lift heavy things on the day of the relocation, which can be particularly tough for a pregnant woman.
Generally, moving while pregnant isn't ideal due to the emotional and physical demands of the pregnancy (like severe fatigue, nausea, and stress) that complicate the process.
Still, moving while pregnant may be necessary to create more room for your growing family. Luckily, with the right preparation and help, you can take charge of the moving process, and you won't lose your mind.
Discover expert tips for hassle-free and seamless moving while pregnant.
1. Plan Ahead
Firstly, you need to plan ahead of time to avoid the headaches that accompany moving. Create a checklist and write down all the necessary tasks, including packing, cleaning, and finding reputable movers. This checklist ensures you prepare for the moving process efficiently and also helps you pack in a sensible manner.
Ensure that you pack your stuff early enough to avoid the last-minute rush as you try to get so much done in little time, which may be risky for you and the baby. Take breaks as you pack to ensure you don't get overwhelmed. Also, don't stand too long in order to prevent swelling in your legs.
Stick to a packing deadline to ensure you will be relaxed when the day to move comes. Also, try to move during the second trimester after the morning sickness subsides, as you will have more mental and physical energy to handle the moving process.
2. Inform Your Doctor
You should speak to your doctor about the planned move so they can advise on what you can and can't do. For instance, you shouldn't lift heavy boxes and objects while pregnant, as they can cause hernias, preeclampsia, low birth weight, and premature birth. To be safe, only participate in the moving process once your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
Remember that you might have to switch doctors once you move to a new state or city. As the moving day approaches, make it a top priority to find a doctor or hospital in the new location to ensure your prenatal care proceeds without a hitch. Search online for local doctors and hospitals in the new area, or ask your current physician for a recommendation of practitioners in the new location.
Once you find one, schedule an appointment and go for a checkup as soon as you move. Don't forget to have your current doctor transfer your medical records to the new doctor. Also, as you make a long-distance move, have a health care provider's contact information who can help in the event of an emergency.
3. Stay Safe
Moving can drain you physically, so drink as much water as possible to remain hydrated and mentally alert. For added hydration, eat some watery fruits, such as watermelon.
If you have to lift anything, use the proper lifting technique, in which you bend at your knees instead of with your back or waist. You don’t want to push yourself too much, so listen to your body and lie down or nap when necessary. Also, climb stairs slowly and don't rush up and down, as you might fall.
Additionally, keep away from cleaning supplies that may contain harmful chemicals and strong fragrances, as they can adversely affect you and the baby. Instead, for all your cleaning needs, hire a cleaning service.
You can also enlist a moving company to take care of the entire process. The company will load your things into their trucks, transport them to your new home, and unload them. This way, you can focus on what matters the most — your pregnancy.
With these tips, moving while pregnant will be more comfortable and less stressful. For smoother and easier moving while pregnant, professional movers can help. Contact the pros at Baker Moving & Supplies to schedule your next move.
