Pregnancy is an exciting phase in a woman’s life. While some of you may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, mood swings and weight gain during pregnancy, which may undermine your excitement, what matters at the end of the day are a healthy mother and a healthy baby. Unlike olden times, women today are more educated and informed about various aspects of pregnancy. The doctors and the scientific community, in general, have also studied the condition extensively and identified several factors that are important for a healthy baby.
Diet
Eating a healthy diet during pregnancy is one of the best things that you can do for yourself and for your baby, says an article by Mayo Clinic staff on the Mayo Clinic website. Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, proteins, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables. Remember, a healthy diet will not only promote optimum growth and development of your baby, it will also prevent you from gaining excessive weight that may be difficult to lose once the baby is born.
Exercise
The Mayo Clinic staff also recommends 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity to all pregnant women. Choose the right exercise that's safe for you and your baby. Swimming, walking and certain yoga postures are popular among many pregnant women. Kegel exercises also help strengthen your pelvic floor and promote easy labor and delivery.
Supplements
Women should start taking prenatal multivitamin supplements as soon as they start planning for pregnancy and continue until they're breastfeeding. The prenatal vitamins including vitamin A, D, E and K help prevent birth defects. You should also consider taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements because they're essential for your baby's brain development. Calcium supplements promote strong bones in both you and your baby.
Birthing Classes
Most hospitals and doctor’s offices offer birthing classes to new parents. While it may seem difficult to take time out for the classes, they're worth it because they provide important tips and information about the labor and delivery process.
Alcohol and Caffeine
Alcohol, caffeine and cigarette smoke or nicotine can cross the placenta, reach the fetus and affect its growth and development, says Dr. Amy Schweitzer in the Fall 2006 issue of the "Journal of Perinatal Education." The American Pregnancy Association also warns that alcohol can cause birth defects and increase the risk of fetal alcohol distress syndrome in your baby characterized by physical and neurological birth defects.
Screening Tests
Most pregnant women are required to have screening tests during the first trimester of pregnancy, including an ultrasound and blood tests such as a plasma-protein screening test and a human gonadotropin test. Don't neglect these tests, as they may help identify any abnormalities in your pregnancy. Your doctor may also prescribe some additional tests depending on your age and overall health.
Doctor Visits
Try to keep your doctor appointments. Stay in regular touch with your doctor. It will help you and your doctor to understand each other better. While it's important to trust your doctor, remember to ask questions as well.
Stress
Stress during pregnancy may lead to hormone imbalance that can affect the growth of your baby. Try to stay positive. Family support is always important.
Hygiene
Proper hygiene is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Wash fruits and vegetables before eating, breathe fresh air and maintain a clean and healthy environment in your house. Remember that both you and your baby have lower than normal immunity and may be at increased risk of infections.
Hydration
Drinking water is also very important. It helps maintain optimum blood volume and ensures proper supply of nutrients to your baby. It may also lower the risk of preterm labor.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Pregnancy Nutrition
- Journal of Perinatal Education; Dietary Supplements During Pregnancy; Amy Schweitzer
- American Pregnancy Association: Exercise Guidelines During Pregnancy
- American Pregnancy Association: Pregnancy and Alcohol
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford: Common Tests During Pregnancy
- University Hospitals: Benefits of Taking Birthing Classes
- Nemours Foundation: Staying Healthy During Pregnancy
