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Slideshow: Looking and Feeling Your Best in Pregnancy

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First-Trimester Changes

Pregnancy affects your body in more ways than just your growing waistline. Early in your pregnancy, hormones cause your breasts to feel full and tender. Hormones can also cause bouts of nausea, especially in the first trimester. You might feel exhausted and need to take frequent naps.

You've Got That "Glow"

It's not a myth: Pregnant women often "glow" because of greater blood flow and more oil production in the skin. But pregnancy can also bring about melasma, a discoloration of facial skin, acne, itchy skin, and stretch marks. Lotion or moisturizer can soothe itchy skin and stretch marks. But check with your doctor before using any medicines like topical acne treatments.

Stay Active During Pregnancy

Exercising during pregnancy helps you feel more energetic and prepares your body for the rigor of childbirth. With a doctor's approval, healthy women should strive for at least two and a half hours of exercise each week. Choose low-impact workouts like walking or swimming. If you were active before your pregnancy, check with your doctor before continuing to run, do aerobics, or lift weights. Stay hydrated. Stop exercising if you feel dizzy or faint.

Massage and Spa Treatments

Massage, particularly Swedish massage, may improve your overall health during pregnancy. Massage relieves tension and soothes muscle aches and pains. Find a massage therapist certified in prenatal massage. Always consult your doctor first. Some spa treatments are safe. Avoid those that raise your body temperature, such as mud baths and sauna sessions. Your skin may be more sensitive than usual to other spa treatments, like facials.

Stretch and Relax

Yoga is an excellent way to relax the body and the mind. You'll have better balance as your center of gravity shifts. Invest in a pregnancy yoga DVD or find a class for prenatal yoga. A certified instructor will know which poses you shouldn't attempt and will help you adapt poses as your pregnancy advances. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise, including yoga.

Are Mood Swings Normal?

You might feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster during pregnancy. You're excited, but you have concerns about childbirth and parenthood. With elevated hormones in the mix, you can feel overwhelmed. This is normal. Get plenty of rest. Try stress-relieving activities. Exercise, talk to a friend, or see a movie. Talk to your doctor if the mood swings persist or if you feel depressed.

Hair Care Do's and Don'ts

During pregnancy, your hair might feel thicker and fuller. Pregnancy hormones prevent you from losing as much hair as you normally would. Having certain hair treatments such as permanent hair color is generally OK, but your doctor may suggest waiting till after the first trimester. After delivery you might experience more hair loss, but within six months of the baby's birth, your hair growth should be back to normal.

Makeup and Your Changing Skin

Your skin is changing and your makeup routine might need freshening up, too. If your skin feels dry, use liquid or cream foundation. If it gets oily, try powder foundation and blush. Dab on concealer to cover up dark circles and uneven skin tone. Use subtle shades and a light touch when applying makeup. Treat yourself to a makeover and get tips from a makeup pro. Read the label on your makeup and avoid products containing mercury.

Affordable Maternity Clothes

If you have a normal build, you might gain as much as 25 to 37 pounds during pregnancy. You can still dress fashionably, comfortably, and affordably when pregnant. Invest in key garments like a pair of jeans or pants, a nice dress or skirt, and a couple of comfortable tops. Get fitted with a supportive bra. Trade in your high heels for comfortable, low-heeled shoes with solid support. If you can, borrow maternity clothes from a friend or shop at secondhand stores.

Healthy Eating for Two

Most women will only need an extra 300 calories a day when "eating for two." Choose those extra calories wisely from all the food groups -- grains, fruits and vegetables, meats and beans, and dairy. Don't skip breakfast. Eat healthy snacks in between meals. Stay away from foods containing raw or undercooked eggs or meats, certain fish (which could contain high levels of mercury), unpasteurized dairy foods, and cold cut meats, unless they have been heated through.

Prenatal Vitamins Are a Must

Pregnant women need extra folic acid, calcium, iron, and DHA. The best source of these nutrients is a healthy diet. But you should still take the prenatal vitamin and/or supplement suggested by your doctor. Prenatal vitamins have nutrients that are necessary for fetal growth and development. Some pregnant women may need additional supplements to target specific vitamin deficiencies, such as iron or B12.

Hydrate for a Healthy Pregnancy

Being properly hydrated will help keep your energy level up. It also helps prevent bladder infections and constipation. Drink plenty of water or fluids: The Institute of Medicine recommends 12 cups each day (you get about 20% of your daily water intake from food). Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. Stick with water, juices, and non-caffeinated beverages. If your urine is pale yellow, you're probably drinking enough.

Get the Sleep You Need

During the first trimester it might seem like you sleep all the time. By the third trimester, getting a good night's sleep is more difficult. Frequent urination, heartburn, discomfort, and even anxiety can keep you awake, among other things. Try sleeping on your left side, using pillows behind you and between your legs. Exercise during the day rather than the evening. Don't drink too many fluids before bed.

Medication? Ask Your Doctor First

Unless recommended or prescribed by your doctor, don't take any medications while pregnant, even over-the-counter medicines like cold or allergy tablets, anti-inflammatory drugs, or pain relievers. Anything you take eventually makes its way to your baby. If you have a pre-existing condition, your doctor will advise you about adjusting or continuing your medication.

It's Fine to Get Frisky

Unless your doctor advises otherwise, having sex is safe during pregnancy. Be ready to make some adjustments to accommodate your new figure. Your breasts and nipples might be sensitive. Talk to your partner about what feels good to you. As your belly grows, you might need to try different positions. Let your doctor know if sex causes any cramping or bleeding.

Time for Two Before Baby Arrives

Some couples take one last trip, a "babymoon," before the birth of their child. Many resorts have travel packages for parents-to-be. Talk to your doctor before you plan a trip far from home. It is best to travel prior to 36 weeks. You may need to consider the destination's immunization requirements and available medical care, as well as your ability to drive or fly long distances. If you can't travel, maybe you can spend a night at the best hotel in town or plan a special date.

Feel Confident, Not Self-Conscious

With the changes taking place in your body, it's normal to feel self-conscious. Take charge of your attitude. Surround yourself with positive friends or join a pregnancy support group. Read books or talk to your health care provider about what to expect. By eating right, exercising, and having a positive attitude, you can enjoy your pregnancy.