Prenatal Precautions: 7 Best Picks For A Mother-To-Be

If you’re thinking about becoming pregnant, you need to make sure you take every precaution possible to take care of yourself before, during and after you conceive. There are many things you should do to make sure your body is prepared to carry a child, without depleting your body of necessary vitamins and minerals.

Tips for Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy:

A woman should take care of her health throughout her life, but it’s more important than ever when she is expecting a child. According to the Women’s Health.GOV, the perfect scenario would be planning for a child and starting a healthy pre-natal plan before you become pregnant. Often, this isn’t the case, so the sooner you know you’re pregnant, the sooner you can start your regimen. Here are some tips that will help you stay in good health throughout your pregnancy

• If your pregnancy is planned, have a pre-pregnancy check-up to make sure you are in good health. If your pregnancy isn’t planned, make an appointment with your physician as soon as you find out you’re expecting, so your doctor can perform a physical and determine when the baby is due. They will probably advise you to start seeing an obstetrician if you don’t already have one.
• Choose a healthy diet: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Water may also help reduce constipation and fatigue. Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods like fruits, cereals, sprouts, spinach and beans. Eat only 10-12 ounces of cooked fish per week. Some fish can be high in mercury, so fish and seafood can be eaten but kept to a minimum. Reduce your caffeine, which can lead to sleeping issues, anxiety and even irregular heartbeat when taken in excess. This means limiting coffee, chocolate and certain sodas. For more information on the best diet for you, Dr Rahul Sen is one of the professionals that offer special dietetic services to make sure that you are getting the right nutrition while maintaining a healthy weight.
• Stop smoking before you become pregnant: Smoking has been connected to under-weight babies and increased health complications including infant death syndrome. Even second-hand some can be dangerous.
• Do not drink alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, learning and developmental issues and abnormal features. It is unknown if there is any “safe” amount of alcohol, so it is best to take it out of your diet completely.
• Check with your physician before you start any physical activity: Exercising that won’t tire you out are best. Yoga and walking are great options but don’t push yourself. Avoid backward movements or excessive use of abdominal muscles. Quit when tired, move slowly and make sure you are wearing supportive, non-slippery shoes.
• According to Health.gov.au, you should consult your physician before taking any medication: They say, “only a small number of medicines are safe in pregnancy.” Many have been known to potentially cause birth defects or problems after birth. There are some over the counter medications that can help with some of the symptoms of pregnancy like nausea, vomiting, heartburn and constipation, but make sure your physician approves each medication before taking it.
• Dress properly: wear comfortable clothing and wear shoes with a moderated heel. Don’t wear high heels or platform shoes that can put added stress on the lower back leading to pain.

Having a baby is one of the most exciting times of your life. But there can be complications from pregnancy, so it’s important to watch your health, take vitamins and avoid all the things that could potentially cause issues while pregnant.