Finding out that you are pregnant sets off a wide range of emotions for you and your loved ones. Happiness, excitement and nervousness can make you wonder what to do first. Your instinct might be to go out and buy a layette or schedule a baby shower, but the excitement gives way to concerns about how to have a healthy pregnancy. You can begin your pregnancy with the appropriate resources in place to prepare for the nine-month period during which you and your body are the major source of sustenance for your developing fetus.
Harmful Substances and Behaviors
You should immediately stop using substances that can harm your fetus, such as nicotine, alcohol and drugs. These substances can cause permanent damage to your fetus, including low birth weight, fetal alcohol syndrome, developmental delays and birth defects. Your doctor can advise you about eating fish while pregnant. Generally, recommendations are that pregnant women limit the amount of fish eaten during a one-week period and refrain completely from eating specific types of fish, such as king mackerel and shark. If you engage in extreme sports or exercise, talk to you doctor before continuing those activities.
Prenatal Care
You will need an obstetrician to provide prenatal care throughout your pregnancy. First prenatal appointments usually occur at six to eight weeks into the pregnancy, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Doctors perform the initial tests and examinations to make sure the pregnancy is off to a healthy start. Prenatal care includes regularly scheduled doctor visits and tests, such as ultrasound to monitor the growth and development of the fetus, and examinations and tests to make sure you are healthy. Women who do not have health insurance can find free or reduced-cost health care through public health agencies, community health centers and local departments of social services.
Prenatal Vitamins
Your doctor might prescribe prenatal vitamins to help provide the nutrients you and your fetus need. Now that you are pregnant, you will need more essential nutrients, such as calcium, folic acid and iron. Prenatal vitamins are intended to supplement the nutrients you get from your diet. Health care professionals recommend that pregnant women take a daily dose of 1,000 mcg of folic acid for spinal cord and brain development, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Healthy Diet
You and your fetus need a healthy diet that provides enough calories and nutrients for both of you. You should talk to your doctor about your individual dietary needs, but a balanced diet is more likely to provide you and the baby with the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development. Health care professionals recommend that pregnant women add 300 more calories to their daily caloric intake, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Women pregnant with multiples and overweight women might need special instructions for caloric intake. Pregnant women on restrictive diets, such as vegetarians, might require help ensuring that sufficient nutrients are consumed. Your doctor can talk to you about the foods that you should avoid, such as unpasteurized dairy products, soft cheeses and some types of fish.
Exercise
Regular exercise or physical activity can help with pain and discomfort. Exercise increases energy and stamina and strengthens your muscles, which can help with labor and delivery. Exercise helps with weight management, which can prevent conditions such as gestational diabetes. After receiving doctor approval, most pregnant women can perform about 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, on most days of the week, according to MayoClinic.com. Women who have not engaged in regular exercise should start slowly with 10-minute exercise sessions.
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