13/10/2023
Things to do during pregnancy.
1. Take folic acid and vitamin D supplements
Folic acid significantly reduces your baby’s risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
If you are pregnant, start taking 400 micrograms of folic acid as a supplement as soon as possible until the end of the first trimester (week 12 of your pregnancy).
2. Eat well
Having a balanced diet and eating well during pregnancy means having a good variety of foods, such as fruit and vegetable, meat, cheese, potatoes, beans and pulses. This will ensure you have the energy and nutrients you and your baby need during pregnancy.
If you feel you are struggling to follow a healthy diet during pregnancy, ask your midwife or GP for support. They might be able to refer you to a dietitian to help you.
3. Stay active
Staying active during pregnancy is great for you and your baby. It can help you sleep better, reduce anxiety and help you stay healthy through pregnancy.
If you were active before you became pregnant, you can continue at the same level. But listen to your body and slow down if you begin to feel uncomfortable. If you didn’t exercise much before you became pregnant, build up slowly and aim for 30 minutes each day.
4. Avoid diving or playing contact sports
Most exercise is safe and healthy to continue during pregnancy. But there are some activities you should not do.
5. Monitor your baby’s movements
Feeling your baby move is a sign that they are well. You usually start to feel your baby moving when you’re between 18 and 24 weeks. If this is your first baby, you might not feel movements until after 20 weeks.
The movements can feel like a gentle swirling or fluttering. As your pregnancy progresses, you may feel kicks and jerky movements.
Get to know your baby’s pattern of movements and contact your midwife or maternity unit immediately if you think these have slowed down, stopped or changed. You should feel your baby move right up to and during labour.
6. Go to sleep on your side in the third trimester
Our advice is to go sleep on your side in the third trimester because research has shown that this is safer for your baby. This includes night sleep and daytime naps. If you wake up on your back, try not to worry, just settle back to sleep on your side.
7. Consider having vaccinations that are offered
You’ll be offered vaccinations during pregnancy.
Constant medical attention and examination is of high essence.
You Can always reach out to us at Gilead Children Hospital Abagana
God Create, We Preserve.