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Why Healthy Pregancy Is Crucial For Both Mother And Baby
Maintaining a healthy pregnancy is crucial for the wellbeing of both the mother and the baby. Before we go to the best tips for a healthy pregnancy, Lets answer the question of why.
Some of the key reasons why a healthy pregnancy is so important include:
- Promotes healthy fetal development: A balanced diet, proper nutrition, and prenatal care help ensure the baby receives all the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development in the womb. This reduces the risk of birth defects and other complications.
- Reduces pregnancy complications: Healthy habits like regular exercise, avoiding alcohol/smoking, and managing conditions like gestational diabetes can lower the mother’s risk of complications such as preeclampsia, preterm labor, and postpartum depression.[1][2]
- Supports a healthy birth: Women who maintain good health during pregnancy are more likely to have a full-term delivery and give birth to a baby of healthy birth weight.[3][4]
- Impacts long-term health: Proper nutrition and care during pregnancy can have lasting effects, reducing the child’s future risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.[4][5]
- Supports postpartum recovery: Healthy habits during pregnancy can make the postpartum period easier, with faster physical and emotional recovery for the mother.[2]
By prioritizing their health through proper nutrition, exercise, prenatal care, and avoiding harmful substances, expectant mothers can give their babies the best possible start in life. This lays the foundation for the long-term wellbeing of both mother and child.
9 completely natural tips for a healthy Pregancy
1)Exercise regularly
Aim for 30-60 minutes of moderate activity most days, including strength training at least 2 days per week. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are great options
Try to incoporate physical activity in your daily routine as much as possible
2)Exercise Gain weight at a healthy rate
Discuss your target weight gain range with your doctor. Aim for 12.5-17.5 kgs if you were at a healthy weight before pregnancy
3. Eat a balanced diet
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and calcium-rich foods. Limit processed foods, salt, and added sugars
In Kenya, all pregnant women are encouraged to take a iron and folic acid (fefol) tablet supplements
4. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and drugs
There is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Smoking and drug use can seriously harm your baby and cause complications during the pregnacy.
Alcohol intake can cause among other things, the Alcohol Fetal Syndrome
5. Practice good dental hygiene.
Brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly, as pregnancy increases the risk of gum disease.
6.Manage stress
Pregnancy can at time take a tall on your mental health
Talk to loved ones, get fresh air, exercise, and don’t hesitate to seek professional support if needed.
Avoid relying too much on Dr. Google
7. Discuss medications with your doctor
Your doctor my need to prescibe some medications (such as malaria prevention tablets).
Some prescription and over-the-counter drugs may not be safe during pregnancy, be sure to discuss with your nurse pratictioner or doctor to find safe alternatives
8.Stay up to date on immunizations
Most vaccines are safe during pregnancy. Discuss any needed vaccines with your doctor.
9. Attend all prenatal appointments
Regular checkups allow your doctor to monitor you and your baby’s health and catch any issues early.
Read More: Importance of Pregnacy Care (Antenatal Care) for best health of mother and baby
By following these tips and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can give your baby the best start in life
Disclaimer
The information provided on this medical blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions or taking any actions based on the information provided on this blog. The authors and publishers of this blog are not liable for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.
