Ask a Groovy Gal (Bump Watch)

ASK A GROOVY GAL
TFG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JILLIAN SWARTZ ANSWERS YOUR PREGNANCY QUESTIONS

What's a really cool baby shower gift I can give my best friend?—Andrea, Los Angeles, CA
	Oh, there are so many super cool things you can give her. How about a ten-pack of sessions with a personal trainer and/or a nutritionist? Another popular option is a prenatal spa package complete with massage, facial, manicure and pedicure. Three months of a house cleaning service (say, one that comes every two weeks) is also practical and is guaranteed to come in very handy. I just purchased a gorgeous baby sling from Rockin' Baby Slings (pictured: $102, White Shadows, www.rockinbabysling.com) for a friend who is going back to work with babe-in-tow. It's really a stunning gift out of which any mama will get a great deal of use.

My normally good skin has gone teenager on me. I am so upset. Is there anything I can do?—Rhea, Broken Arrow, OK
	Well, the good news is that most likely these red spots will go away after you give birth (ain't pregnancy grand?). In the meantime, pick up a tube of Jurlique's Moor Purifying Mask ($38, www.jurlique.com). The additive-free blend of deep cleansers and skin purifiers will do wonders for your pregnancy-related blemishes—not to mention your peace of mind.

I have so many aches and pains. What exercises can I do to ease them?—Karen, Millbrook, AL

I am so glad that you realize that exercise will help your pregnancy-related pains. Moving (yup, that means cardiovascular activity), strengthening and toning—as long as your doctors says its okay—is crucial to your overall health—both mental and physical, before, during and after your pregnancy.

We talked to licensed physical therapist and Pilates guru to the stars, Alycea Ungaro who told us that “Regular exercise is the best antidote for pregnancy aches and pains. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a daily routine of at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise. As a new mom, you will be required to do a lot more than 30 minutes of strenuous activity everyday, so it's best to start during pregnancy. If you can't bear the thought of exercise, try to think of it as recreation. You can start out by just stretching a little, and then you can swim a little. Find a gym that has an underwater treadmill and go for a jog—you'll love it. I did that all during my first pregnancy and it was fabulous. Whatever you choose, just remember to keep active.”

For more from Ungaro, read The Comfort Zone, and for your very own in-home prenatal workout designed by TFG's resident fitness MILF (Mother in Love with Fitness), read Move It, Baby.

Click here to read about Jillian's life in the 'hood—motherhood.