In my opinion, a pregnancy rests on four pillars. If any one is shaky, then the troubles start. So what are the most important areas to concentrate on?

1. Diet

Diet plays a very crucial role as it involves the overall mental and physical development of the baby. A well developed baby can handle the rigors of labour well and last minute complications are averted. The well nourished mother can cope with her pregnancy as well as her labour much better.

It also results in a timely birth, which is really important. A pre-mature baby runs into many complications in the immediate post-natal period.

2. Exercise

Exercise helps to tone and prepare your body for the task ahead. It makes you comfortable with your  changing body.

A good antenatal exercise routine targets improved circulation and flexibility. It is a combination of stretches and breathing exercises with special focus on the muscles which will work during the birth process.

A lot of what we experience is controlled by our mind. Pregnancy is associated with discomfort and labour with pain. It is this association that we must aim to remove from our minds.

Instead let us look at pregnancy as nurturing a new life and birth as the most special and joyful moment of life. The association of pain with birth will end. Approaching labour with this frame of mind will make the whole experience more enriching.

4. Your Doctor

It is important to select your doctor with care. You need a person who understands your needs and someone with whom you can connect. Once you make this connection, then comes trust.

It is important to trust your doctor. Ask questions and do not harbour doubts. It will go a long way in making your pregnancy and birth a memorable experience. These are your training guidelines.

You do not run for a marathon without training, You do not give an exam without studying… similarly, you cannot achieve a comfortable pregnancy and birth without concentrating on the Four Pillars of Pregnancy.