Bhagya Munshi

Actually, my earliest symptom was smelling things from a mile away, yaar! Food cravings and mood swings also start pretty early. Best way is to just wait for the missed period and do a home urine test.

Braxton Hicks can make your belly tight, but real labor contractions are regular and increasingly painful. It's best to discuss the 5-1-1 rule with your doctor so you know exactly when to go to the hospital.

It's just a hormonal change, so don't stress about it. I focused on my post-pregnancy walking and yoga (once my doctor cleared me) to feel active and get my body back in shape. Melasma and skin darkening eventually fade as your hormones settle down.

I was extremely cautious with everything I ate after my loss, so I preferred using organic whole grains instead of processed starches. While a little corn flour is generally safe, it might make you feel more secure to stick to simpler home-cooked food.

Everyone told me to eat loads of dry fruits and sweet fruits for baby's brain, but because of my gestational diabetes, I had to be very careful with portions. Balance is key. Handful of almonds and walnuts daily, plus your regular green veggies, works wonders without spiking sugar.