Planning a pregnancy is an exhilarating experience in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. Your physician can assist you along the way to ensure that you are well-prepared and confident before embarking on your journey of parenthood.
When you are pregnant, attending follow-up visits is essential. Therefore you should be consistent in attending visits with the doctor. To get an expert opinion, you can consult a gynecologist in Itefaq Hospital.
From preconception counseling to lifestyle modifications, there are numerous ways through which one may reduce potential risks for both mother and child!
Check with your doctor
Talk to your obs & gyne before and during your pregnancy. Tell them if you are suffering from current or chronic health conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, or hypertension, and get your vaccine status checked before planning for a pregnancy.
Get your genetic screening done to rule out any future possible genetic disorders in pregnancy. Moreover, tell your current symptoms of pregnancy to them so they can prescribe any medication or tests accordingly.
Stop smoking
Babies born to mothers who smoke or are passive smokers are mostly born prematurely, have lower birth weight, and are at an increased risk for infant death syndrome (SIDS), with potential dangers from thirdhand (chemicals left on hair, skin or other body surfaces after smoking) smoke.
Stop alcohol intake
Alcohol intake during pregnancy disturbs hormone levels, ovulation, and even menstruation. In addition, it can also lead to serious birth defects like developmental disorders and low body weight.
Don’t take medications without the consent of your doctor
Discuss all medicines, health conditions, and health goals/preferences with healthcare providers before starting/stopping any medication.
Manage body weight
It is essential to remain physically active throughout pregnancy and adhere to a healthy weight prior to and during the course of gestation.
For women with excess body fat, there may be potential medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, which could adversely impact mother-child health; conversely, underweight moms may face potentially deleterious effects on infant health – ranging from low birth weight.
Have a healthy diet
A healthy diet is essential for both mother and child during pregnancy. Choose plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Avoid highly processed fatty foods like burgers and snacks, as well as caffeinated beverages such as coffee – even up to two cups per day!
Avoid exposure to toxins and harmful elements
Pregnant women should be cautious about exposing their developing fetuses to toxic and chemical substances (such as lead and pesticides), as well as high levels of radiation (such as X-rays).
Excessive exposure to some types of these agents may result in adverse effects for the fetus, such as impaired growth or early development.
Take supplements regularly
Begin incorporating a prenatal vitamin or regular multivitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid into your daily regimen.
Folic acid reduces the chance of having neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, that can prove life-altering for both mom and baby alike.
Drink adequate water
Early and mid-pregnancy are times when nausea and vomiting can be common. To regain lost fluid and for staying hydrated, it’s essential to consume adequate amounts of fluids.
Conclusion
In conclusion, to reduce risks, pregnant mothers should talk to a doctor, stop smoking and drinking, avoid medications without permission, exercise, maintain a healthy weight, have a healthy diet, avoid toxins, take prenatal vitamins, and drink adequate water. All these steps should be followed to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for both mother and child.
If you are pregnant, make sure to visit the healthcare provider frequently and follow their advice. To get expert advice, visit a gynecologist at Fatima Memorial Hospital.
