Are you moving — and expecting? Moving while you’re pregnant presents a special set of challenges. But that doesn’t mean you should stress over the here-to-there process. If you’re pregnant and moving, take a look at the top tips to follow.
Get the Go-Ahead
How much can you safely help during the move? If you’re not sure, talk to your doctor or medical provider before the big day arrives. While some physical activity is beneficial during pregnancy, overdoing it, lifting heavy objects, or straining yourself isn’t advisable.
If you plan to participate in the move, ask your doctor:
- Can you lift boxes/bins? Talk to the doctor about lifting and weight. It’s possible the doctor won’t want you lifting items over a certain weight or won’t want you to lift anything at all — especially if you’re at risk for premature labor.
- How should you lift? If you are allowed to carry small or light boxes, ask the doctor how you should safely lift them.
- How often should you take breaks? Whether you’re carrying items to move or not, talk to the doctor about how much activity you should get. This includes how often to take breaks and for how long.
Follow your medical provider’s advice, even if means you have to sit this move out. If you can’t help (or can’t help much), read on for more information on what to do next.
Hire a Professional
When your doctor advises against your involvement in the heavy lifting part of the move, it’s time to call for help. While family and friendly are likely to jump in and assist, hiring a professional can:
- Reduce your stress level. Now is not the time to add stress to your life. Hiring a moving contractor takes the pressure off and allows you to relax during this potentially anxiety-inducing process.
- Get the job done faster. The contractor has experience and expertise when it comes to moving. That means they’ll get the job done right — and in a faster time than you would. A quick move allows you to get in to your new home, unpack, and relax as soon as possible.
- Help you to unpack. Instead of having to carry boxes and bins to every area of the new house, the movers can do the job for you, speeding up the unpacking process.
Hiring a professional also helps you to avoid accidental move-related injuries such as muscle strain or trip and falls.
Take Care of Yourself
Even though the professional is doing the heavy lifting, you still need to take care of yourself on move day. Easy self-care steps to take include:
- Stay hydrated. Pregnancy increases hydration needs. Carry a bottle of water with you during the move. Refill the bottle often during the day — especially if the weather is warm or humid.
- Eat small meals/snacks. Morning sickness can derail your entire day. Quell the queasy feeling during your move with several small meals or snacks. Carry a few crackers, hard cheese, or anything that seems palatable with you for on-the-go snacking.
- Rest when you need it. Sit down and take a break whenever you feel fatigued. Don’t worry about not doing your fair share. Your family will understand.
- Cool down. If you’re moving during the hot summer months, stop for a cool down when you need it. Run a washcloth under cool water and pat down your face or place it over your eyes/forehead during a much-needed break.
If you feel dizzy, excessively tired, or in any other way uncomfortable, stop what you’re doing immediately. Sit down, relax, and if needed, call your medical provider.
Do you need help moving? Contact Bell Moving & Storage for more information.
