Women's Health

Pregnancy Planning

Overview:
When trying to conceive or when thinking about having a baby, you must prepare in advance for pregnancy, as health care before pregnancy focuses on what can be done prior to pregnancy and increase the chances of having a healthy baby.

Referring to the doctor:
Before conceiving talk to your doctor about pre-conception care. Health history and any medical conditions (such as diabetes, high blood pressure and thyroid disease) that may affect pregnancy will be discussed. Previous pregnancy problems and medications currently taken will be discussed, immunizations needed, as well as steps to be taken before pregnancy to prevent certain birth defects.

Medicines and pregnancy:
Taking certain medications during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects. These may include some prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and nutritional or herbal supplements, and any medications taken before pregnancy should be discussed with the doctor.

Vaccines and pregnancy:
Some immunizations are recommended before pregnancy, during pregnancy, or immediately after delivery. Getting the right immunizations at the right time can help keep the pregnant woman and baby healthy from illness or suffering from lifelong health problems.

Folic acid and pregnancy:
400 micrograms of folic acid (vitamin B) should be taken every day. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body at least one month before and during pregnancy, it can help prevent major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine.

Quit Smoking:
Smoking can cause many problems during pregnancy for a woman and her baby (such as premature birth, birth defects, and infant death).


Toxic substances and environmental pollutants:
Avoid harmful chemicals, environmental pollutants, and other toxic substances (e.g.: bug spray, cat litter, or rodents around the home and workplace) the exposure of which even in small amounts during pregnancy or breastfeeding can lead to disease.

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight:
Women who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop many serious conditions, including complications during pregnancy, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer (such as: endometrial, breast, and colon). The key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight isn't about short-term changes in diet, it is about following a lifestyle that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity.

Mental health and pregnancy:
Mental health is the way in which we think, feel, and act when dealing with life. Everyone feels anxious, tense, or sad at times. However, these feelings do not conflict with daily life. Therefore, when feeling conflicted and affecting daily life, a doctor should be consulted about feelings and treatment options.


Last Update : 28 May 2023 12:44 PM
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