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Do’s #1: Prenatal Care Should be Prioritised
Prenatal care is necessary for ensuring the health and welfare of both mother and baby throughout pregnancy. Frequent checkups enable doctors to monitor the baby’s development, identify any possible issues at an early stage, and offer tailored advice for a healthy pregnancy. Pregnant mothers should attend their first prenatal appointment at a hospital as soon as their pregnancies are confirmed and keep up regular follow-ups as recommended by their doctor. Pantai Hospitals offer quality service if you ever seek prenatal appointments.
Folic acid, iron, and calcium are found in prenatal vitamins, which are important in supporting the baby’s growth and preventing birth defects. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins accompanies these supplements well, supporting both maternal and foetal health. Keeping yourself hydrated and committing to light physical activity approved by doctors, such as prenatal yoga or walking, that boosts general well-being as well.
Don’ts #1: Ignore Possible Risks
Having awareness and being proactive towards avoiding possible risks during pregnancy is important to protecting the health of the mother and baby. Actively understanding these risks allows pregnant mothers to make well-informed decisions for a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Avoid Specific Foods
Pregnant mothers should avoid foods that possess an elevated risk of bacterial contamination, specifically listeria, salmonella, and toxoplasma. Raw or undercooked seafood, such as foods like sushi and shellfish, should be avoided because of possible bacteria and parasites. In addition to this, unpasteurised dairy products such as soft cheeses, raw milk, and specific processed meats like deli meats, pâtés, and hot dogs should be avoided, as these foods may have listeria. Control your intake of high-mercury fish like swordfish, tilefish, and shark, as mercury can damage foetal brain development.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Smoking, drinking alcohol, and the usage of recreational drugs are greatly connected to severe developmental problems, birth defects, low birth weight, and preterm birth. Smoking notably elevates the risk of placental issues, miscarriage, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Alcohol can cause foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), leading to lifelong developmental, cognitive, and behavioural issues. Recreational drugs possess substantial risks, such as premature birth, withdrawal symptoms in newborns, and developmental delays. Pregnant mothers should go to doctors for professional support, as they have resources to help you quit your habits effectively.
Decrease Environmental Exposures
Exposure to harmful chemicals, such as pesticides, industrial solvents, and strong cleaning agents, should be strictly reduced. These substances can cross the placenta and lead to developmental issues or elevate the risk of birth defects. Pregnant mothers should opt for natural or eco-friendly cleaning alternatives and refrain from renovating places with possible exposure to lead or asbestos. Always use protective equipment and guarantee good ventilation when dealing with household chemicals.
Monitor Medication Use
Certain medications, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, can pose significant risks to fetal development. Common medications, such as certain pain relievers, cold and flu medicines, and acne treatments, may be harmful during pregnancy. Always consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist before initiating or continuing any medication regimen to ensure safety for both mother and baby.
Do’s #2: Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
By preparing your body to deal with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy, healthy habits support a smoother and more comfortable pregnancy journey. Main tips for keeping at peak health during pregnancy include:
Get Enough Rest
Quality sleep is important during pregnancy because your body goes through extensive hormonal, physical, and emotional changes, causing elevated fatigue. Target 7-9 hours of restful sleep every night; this creates a relaxing bedtime routine to promote deep and restorative sleep. Using a pregnancy pillow can notably improve comfort, providing support for the abdomen, back, and legs, decreasing strain on joints and muscles, and boosting better sleep quality.
Stay Active
Committing to low-impact exercises brings benefits to pregnancy health in general. Activities like swimming, walking, and prenatal yoga can notably enhance circulation, promote energy levels, decrease stress, and soothe common pregnancy discomforts, such as back pain, swelling, and leg cramps. Frequent physical activity also prepares the body for labour and delivery by strengthening muscles and enhancing endurance.
Manage Stress
Stress management is important for the well-being of both mother and baby, as pregnancy can be emotionally demanding. Including relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle stretching can aid in managing stress levels, decreasing anxiety, and improving emotional stability. Practising mindfulness or taking part in fun activities such as reading or listening to soothing music also positively impacts emotional health.
Frequent Hydration
Sufficient hydration is important during pregnancy, as it supports the health of both mother and baby directly. Set a target to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water every day to keep peak amniotic fluid levels, improve nutrient transport, and avoid dehydration-related complications like headaches, dizziness, and urinary tract infections. Staying well-hydrated also aids in managing body temperature and supports the elevated blood volume during pregnancy.
Don’ts #2: Skip Crucial Vaccinations
baby from avoidable diseases. For example, the influenza vaccine decreases the risk of serious flu symptoms, while the pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine safeguards the baby during their initial months of life when they are most vulnerable. It is highly recommended to take these vaccines during certain stages of pregnancy; they are also considered safe to take.
Additionally, it is important to talk about other vaccines, like COVID-19, with your doctor to make well-informed decisions based on every mother’s circumstances. Ensuring your vaccinations are up to date greatly impacts your pregnancy’s safety.
Schedule an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Making well-informed decisions during pregnancy is important to securing a safe and healthy experience for both mother and baby. At Pantai Hospitals, we provide comprehensive prenatal care, professional guidance, and tailored support throughout your pregnancy journey. A dedicated team of specialists is here to offer top-notch medical care, address your worries, and support your unique needs. Prioritise you and your baby’s health by booking an appointment with us today because every step is important in bringing new life into the world safely.
You may also schedule an appointment via our website or download our MyHealth360 application, which can be obtained from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
