Managing a healthy pregnancy

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Managing a healthy Pregnancy can be an exciting but stressful time. As you get ready to welcome a new person into the world, your body will undergo big changes, both visible and invisible. 

Understandably, you’re going to have questions about how to keep you and your baby safe and healthy.

To help you, I’ve picked out the 3 things people ask me about most when they get pregnant: staying active, diet, and how to manage the common health complaints during pregnancy.  

Are you looking for advice on how to manage a healthy pregnancy? A gynecologist can help you understand your symptoms and manage your health 24/7. gynecologist Near me for free to get started.

Staying active

The first question most newly pregnant people ask me is ‘Can I carry on exercising?’ The answer is not that you can, but that you should. 

Here are some of the benefits of staying active while pregnant:

• Reduced cesarean section rates¹
• Healthier weight gain¹
• Improved management of gestational diabetes¹
• Reduced constipation²
• Shortened labor³

Exercising during pregnancy could also be good for your baby. Studies link healthy body weight, cardiovascular health, and nervous system development in children to staying active while pregnant.⁴

So what sort of exercise should you be doing? Aim for 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic activity a week. Walking, swimming, yoga, and strength training are all safe but speak to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Whatever exercise you choose, go gently. A good rule of thumb is to make sure you can still carry on a conversation while exercising.

Here are some things to avoid when you’re exercising during pregnancy:⁵

• Any activity where there’s a risk of direct impact to your belly
• Exercise in hot weather
• Lying on your back for too long, especially after 16 weeks

Diet

The second question people ask is usually about what to eat during pregnancy. Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to give a one-size-fits-all answer because there are so many different healthy diets.

My advice is to continue eating a balanced diet of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. And, of course, plenty of fruit and vegetables. Your calorie intake will need to increase as your fetus starts to grow. Speak to your doctor about the right amount of calories for your body type at your stage of pregnancy. 

There are a few things you should try to avoid while pregnant:⁶

• Unpasteurized milk
• Soft cheeses and blue cheeses
• Raw or undercooked meat
• Raw eggs
• Fish with high mercury content
• Organ meat like liver, heart, and kidney
• Unwashed fruit and vegetables
• Alcohol
• Multivitamins and supplements containing vitamin A

Speak to your doctor before you start taking any supplements while pregnant.

Managing common health complaints

Most pregnancies follow a healthy course without too many problems. However, you can expect to experience some health changes. Here are some ways to manage the most common ones.

Morning sickness

Experiencing a bit of morning sickness during your first trimester is normal. It should stop around weeks 16-20.⁷ Try eating small meals more often, and avoid foods that are more likely to give you an upset stomach. If your morning sickness doesn’t go away or you’re struggling to keep food down, call your doctor. 

Constipation

Constipation during pregnancy can be uncomfortable, but it’s normal.⁷ Drinking plenty of water, eating lots of fiber, and making sure you stay active will help you stay regular. Talk to your doctor before taking laxatives.

Tiredness

Being pregnant can be exhausting work. You’re growing a new human after all. Try to get as much sleep as possible, and take naps in the day if you need to. Avoid taking any over-the-counter medications to help you sleep. Speak to your doctor if fatigue becomes a serious problem for you.

I hope these tips will help you on your way to managing a healthy pregnancy. Until next time, take care of yourself.

You can start making better health choices now by a Pregnancy doctor.

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1. Himan, S.K., et al. Sports Health, (2015), doi: 10.1177/1941738115599358
2. Trottier, M., et al. Can Fam Physician, (2012), PMID: 22893333
3. Mayo Clinic. “Pregnancy and exercise: Baby, let’s move!” Accessed April 2021
4. Moyer, C., et al. Clin Med Insights Womens Health, (2016), doi: 10.4137/CMWH.S34670
5. NHS. “Exercise in pregnancy.” Accessed April 2021
6. NHS. “Foods to avoid in pregnancy.” Accessed April 2021
7. NICE. “Antenatal care for uncomplicated pregnancies.” Accessed April 2021

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**Comprehensive Guide‌ to Managing a ‍Healthy Pregnancy**



**Q: What is prenatal care and why is ⁢it important?**



**A:** Prenatal care is a​ series of appointments⁣ and tests designed to monitor and support the health of the expectant mother and baby ⁢throughout pregnancy. Regular prenatal checkups allow healthcare providers to track fetal development, screen for ​potential health risks,‍ and provide essential guidance on lifestyle choices and nutrition.



**Q: What are the essential nutritional guidelines for a healthy pregnancy?**



**A:** A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and ‌lean protein is crucial for ⁢a healthy pregnancy. Aim for foods ⁢high in folic acid, iron, calcium, and ⁢omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid raw or undercooked foods,‌ certain‌ fish, and excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol.



**Q: How can I maintain a healthy weight during⁣ pregnancy?**



**A:** Gradual weight gain during pregnancy is essential for the baby’s growth and​ development. Generally,⁤ the recommended weight gain ‌is based on pre-pregnancy weight. Healthcare⁣ providers can ​provide personalized guidance on appropriate weight gain goals.



**Q: What is the importance of exercise during pregnancy?**



**A:** Moderate exercise throughout pregnancy can improve overall health, reduce pregnancy-related discomforts, and ‍support labor and delivery. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program and choose activities that are safe for pregnancy.



**Q: How can I manage ⁣common pregnancy discomforts like morning sickness and back pain?**



**A:** Morning sickness can be‍ alleviated by ‌eating small, frequent meals,⁤ staying hydrated, and avoiding ‍triggers. Back pain can be managed through posture, using a supportive belt, and engaging in⁢ gentle ​stretching exercises.



**Q: What are the‍ signs of potential complications in pregnancy?**



**A:** It’s essential to be aware of signs ⁣that ⁤may indicate potential complications. These include: excessive bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fever, chills,⁣ and changes‍ in fetal movement. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.



**Q: Is it safe to‌ travel during pregnancy?**



**A:** Traveling during pregnancy can be safe if certain precautions are taken. Choose⁣ destinations that are easy to navigate and have access​ to healthcare. Plan for frequent breaks and stay hydrated during⁤ long ‍drives or flights. Consider getting travel insurance to cover any potential ⁤complications.



**Q: How ⁢can I prepare for a⁣ healthy childbirth?**



**A:** Creating a birth plan that outlines your preferences for labor and delivery can⁤ help you​ feel more prepared. Practice relaxation techniques, listen to birthing music, and explore pain management options. Surround yourself with a support network of family and healthcare professionals to provide encouragement.



**Q: What ⁢should I do​ after ⁤my baby is born?**



**A:** Postpartum care is essential for recovery and ensuring the health⁢ of both ⁢you and your baby. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for rest,‌ exercise, ⁣and nutrition. Attend postpartum checkups to monitor your recovery​ and discuss any concerns.