Tips for mothers-to-be
A mother-to-be can empower herself to make the most of her pregnancy by being well prepared.
The expected mother’s body will go through significant changes and fluctuating emotions
In a statement received from the N17 Hospital the following tips will help to take the best possible health decisions for her and the baby.
* Managing chronic medial conditions like blood pressure, diabetes or epilepsy is crucial for the mother and the baby’s health.
* Consult the doctor before taking any over-the-counter medication.
* It is best to consult a healthcare provider even before conception on the continuation of chronic medication.
* Practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist during pregnancy.
Different hormonal levels associated with pregnancy, may affect the health and gums like plague, build-up, bleeding and inflammation or infection are more likely an may, in turn, cause damage to the teeth.
* Stay adequately hydrated by drinking eight glasses of water every day.
This also helps in preventing urinary tract and bladder infections.
* Limit tea and coffee intake as it both contain caffeine.
* Eat a healthy diet and avoid the mindset of having to eat for two.
The doctor can advise the mother on what a healthy weight gain would be for her and the baby.
* Exercise during pregnancy is beneficial for both mother and baby.
* Get plenty of rest as the body is taking more strain than usual, so try to get to bed earlier and rest when possible.
* Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or use recreational drugs.
It may be detrimental to the baby’s growth, development and health.
* Wearing a seat belt could safe the life of the mother and the unborn baby or lessen the severity of injury in case of a motor vehicle accident.
According to the World Health Organisation women who are pregnant during the flu season should get a flu vaccine.
Sufficient evidence show the vaccine is safe for mother and baby.
n Don’t add a cat to the family for the first time during pregnancy.
Toxoplasmosis an extremely dangerous parasmatic infection is carried by cats and transmitted in cat faces.
* Don’t get into the sauna, steam room or overheat in the bath.
Increasing the core temperature significantly may be threatening to the pregnancy.
* It is recommended not to fly internationally after 34 weeks or locally after 36 weeks gestation.
* Due to health risks involved it is best to avoid travelling to a malaria areas.
* Go for regular check-ups as recommended by the doctor.
Regular scans of the unborn baby is also recommended.
It is best for the mother to familiarise herself with conditions that are specifically associated with pregnancy including gestational diabetes, with signs and symptoms of miscarriage and premature labour.
Consult the healthcare provider for any concerns labour any aspects of the pregnancy.
