Do’s and Don’ts During Pregnancy

There may be misunderstandings regarding suitable behaviour when pregnant. Prenatal multivitamins, exercise, and a balanced diet are well-known, but there are more things you might be surprised to learn.

You must provide a safe, nurturing environment for your unborn child before they arrive.

This list of pregnant dos and don’ts might help you identify what you should and shouldn’t worry about. Meet our experts to know more.

Do’s During Pregnancy 

Do take a multivitamin

While a balanced diet is key, it might not be enough during pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins with folic acid, calcium, and iron support your baby’s development and prevent congenital disabilities. A pregnancy consultant can help you choose the right prenatal vitamins, while regular checkups with a doctor or midwife (search online for “pregnancy checkups near me“) ensure your and your baby’s health. Remember, don’t exceed the recommended prenatal vitamin dosage and meet our experts to know what is best for you.

Do get lots of sleep 

Sleep can be challenging during the first nine months of pregnancy due to fluctuating hormone levels, excitement, and worry. You’ll need sleep during pregnancy because it’s stressful, especially during the last trimester.

When you have the chance, take a quick nap if you’re feeling exhausted. Establish and observe bedtimes.

7–9 hours of sleep each night should be your goal. Get as much sleep as possible because fatigue indicates your body needs extra time to recover.

Do work out

Forget the idea of taking it easy all pregnancy long! Exercise is now known to benefit both mom and baby. Regular activity can help fight common pregnancy woes like insomnia, muscle aches, weight gain, and even mood swings. If you exercise before pregnancy, keep it up! Talk to your pregnancy doctor (find one near you by searching “pregnancy doctor near me“) about any adjustments as your trimesters progress. Are you new to exercise? Your doctor can guide you towards a safe and comfortable routine for you and your growing baby. Remember, a pregnancy hospital near you (search online for “pregnancy hospital near me“) can be an excellent resource for information and support throughout your pregnancy journey.

Do practice yoga

Are you new to yoga? Before enrolling in a class, discuss it with your doctor or a pregnancy consultant. While you might be able to begin yoga during pregnancy, it’s wise to address any potential risks or concerns with your healthcare professional first.

Motherland Hospital offers a range of prenatal and gentle yoga classes specifically designed for your changing body.

These classes cater to your changing body with instructors who understand which poses are safe and which to avoid.

Do gain weight smartly

Forget the “eat for two” myth! During pregnancy, quality trumps quantity. Prioritise eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet that will help both you and your baby. While weight gain is expected, it’s essential to be mindful. Excessive weight gain can pose health risks for your baby. Need help with how much weight is right for you? Don’t hesitate to consult a pregnancy doctor (find one near you by searching “pregnancy doctor near me“) or visit a pregnancy hospital near you for guidance. They can help you create a personalized plan for a healthy pregnancy journey.

Pregnancy Don’ts

Don’t smoke

Pregnant women who smoke are more likely to give birth to babies who are underweight and to have children who are more likely to experience learning difficulties. Additionally, children born to women who smoke are more likely to try tobacco at a younger age and become regular smokers earlier due to physiologic nicotine addiction.

Don’t drink alcohol

Alcohol is strictly off-limits during pregnancy. Even small amounts can harm your baby, potentially leading to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) with symptoms like low birth weight, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. If you’re having problems quitting your drinking, get quick consultation with your physician or a pregnancy consultant. Getting help early gives your baby the best chance for a healthy start.

Don’t eat raw meat

Raw or undercooked meat and eggs can harbor harmful bacteria like Listeria and Toxoplasma, causing foodborne illness and potentially congenital disabilities. To be safe, thoroughly cook all your meat and eggs during pregnancy. Looking for more guidance? Search online for “pregnancy hospital near me” to find a healthcare provider who can answer any questions you have about food safety during pregnancy.

Don’t drink a lot of caffeine

Caffeine crosses the placenta, affecting your baby’s heart rate. Limit your daily intake to around 200mg during pregnancy (roughly one cup of brewed coffee), but remember caffeine content varies. Consult our pregnancy doctor for personalized advice on a safe caffeine limit.

Conclusion 

Congratulations! Pregnancy is an exciting journey filled with changes and new beginnings. This blog post has covered some “dos and don’ts” to remember during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor (or find one near you by searching pregnancy doctor near me for personalized advice. They’re your pregnancy partner! Need more guidance or a checkup? Search online for “pregnancy check up near me” or consider Motherland Hospital, the No.1 Mother and Child Hospital, which offers consultations with pregnancy doctors and consultants.