Pregnancy is considered the most exciting time in a woman’s life. Motherhood is not easy, but it can also be a rewarding experience. Being a great mother begins with taking care of your child before he/she is born.
Here are some of the things that women can do to take care of themselves and their babies healthy during pregnancy:
Get routine prenatal checkups
Setting a prenatal care routine is among the essential things that a woman can do to take care of her baby’s health. Mostly the women have normal pregnancies, but sometimes, complications may arise and put the life of the mother and child at risk. Regular prenatal care is helpful in preventing and treating pregnancy-related complications. Midwives and Obstetricians are healthcare professionals specializing in providing care for expecting mothers. You may also opt for the prenatal baby scan to ensure a baby’s health.
Avoid Drinking and Smoking
Both smoking and drinking during pregnancy can harm the unborn baby. It increases the risk of giving birth to a less-weight baby. Furthermore, drinking raises the risk of a condition known as fetal alcohol syndrome. It has been connected with heart defects, facial deformities, and delayed development of the unborn baby.
Eat healthy food
Consuming a well-balanced diet is helpful for the baby to get all the essential nutrients required to develop and grow normally. So, women must eat a lot of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. She must avoid undercooked meat, canned tuna, swordfish, and hot dogs.
In addition to this, women may ask their midwife or doctor about having a fish oil supplement as the fish oil contains omega-three fatty acids, which are necessary for developing a baby’s brain. These fatty acids can also help minimize the risk of preeclampsia which is the major cause of fetal and maternal death.
Exercise
Experts recommend that women gain between 25-30 pounds during pregnancy. Women who gain more than the recommended amount of weight increase their risk of developing preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Exercise helps a woman maintain a normal weight. It also prepares the body for labor and delivery. Exercise not only benefits the mother but also benefits the baby. Studies have shown that exercise during pregnancy helps strengthen the baby’s heart. Thirty minutes of exercise per day is recommended for expecting mothers.
Reduce Stress
Stress during pregnancy is harmful to the brain development of the unborn baby. That’s why women must take measures to minimize the amount of stress in their life. Listening to soothing music, meditating, and watching a comedy are the few things women can do to reduce their stress.
Exercise
According to the experts, women gain around 25 to 30 pounds at the time of pregnancy. Women who gain more than the advised weight maximize the risk of developing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Exercise plays an important role in maintaining a normal weight.
It also makes the body ready for labor pain and delivery. It is not only beneficial for the mother but also benefits the baby. According to the studies, exercise at the time of pregnancy helps strengthen the baby’s heart. Usually, thirty minutes of exercise is suggested for expecting mothers.
Stay Safe
Having fun and staying active is essential during pregnancy. But there are some activities that you need to avoid while being pregnant. It includes any activities that raise the risk of trauma to your uterus from sudden start-and-stop movements. It is recommended to avoid riding roller coasters, water slides, bumper cars, and motorcycles that may result in a fall.
