Things to do during pregnancy: A complete guide

Pregnancy is the most beautiful and important time in a woman's life. Every step during this time should be conscious, correct and it is important to keep an eye on it in terms of staying healthy. Because just as the mother's health is important, the healthy development of the baby in the womb is also highly dependent on the mother's lifestyle. Therefore, it is very important to follow some important things to do and advice during pregnancy. Today we will discuss in detail what women should do during pregnancy, what is important to pay attention to, and what mistakes should be avoided.

1. Seek timely medical advice

The most important thing to do after pregnancy is confirmed is to visit an experienced gynecologist. Regular visits should be made to the doctor so that:

• The health of the mother and baby can be monitored

• Necessary tests (Ultrasound, Blood test, Urine test, etc.) can be done

• Any complications can be identified early

Following the doctor's instructions helps reduce the risks of pregnancy.

2. Develop healthy eating habits

All the nutritional needs of the baby are met from the mother's food. Therefore, the diet during pregnancy should be balanced and nutritious.

What is important to have in the diet:

• Plenty of fruits and vegetables: Provides vitamins, minerals and fiber

• Protein-rich foods: Fish, chicken, eggs, pulses, nuts

• Calcium-rich foods: Milk, yogurt, chickpeas

• Iron-rich foods: Spinach, liver, pulses

• Folic acid: Very important in the first three months of pregnancy; For the proper development of the baby's brain and spinal cord

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Helps in brain development; such as salmon, walnuts, etc.

What should be avoided:

• Raw fish/meat

• Excess caffeine (tea/coffee)

• Processed food

• Excessively salty and fried foods

3. Drink enough water

The body's water demand increases during pregnancy. Therefore, you should drink at least 8-10 glasses of pure water a day. This:

• Prevents dehydration

• Keeps blood pressure under control

• Reduces constipation

• Maintains the functioning of the placenta

4. Regular light exercise

Many people think that exercise is prohibited during pregnancy, but in fact, light exercise as recommended by a doctor is very beneficial. For example:

• Walking

• Pregnancy yoga

• Light stretching

• Deep breathing exercises

Benefits:

• Increases blood circulation

• Reduces pain and discomfort

• Reduces stress

• Prepares the body better for childbirth

Caution: Before starting any new exercise, you must consult a doctor.

5. Maintaining mental health

Not only physical health, mental health care is also very important during pregnancy. Because stress can directly affect the health of the baby.

Things to do for mental well-being:

• Thinking positively

• Reading favorite books or listening to songs

• Doing meditation and mindfulness

• Spending time with loved ones

• Seeking the advice of a counselor if necessary

6. Moderate rest and sleep

Pregnancy brings about various changes in the body, which requires more rest. It is necessary to sleep at least 8-10 hours a day. If you do not get enough sleep at night:

• Fatigue increases

• Immunity decreases

• The baby's growth may be impaired

7. Avoid risky activities

It is very important to avoid certain activities during pregnancy, such as:

• Lifting heavy objects

• Standing for long periods

• Exposure to chemicals

• Taking excessively hot baths

• Working in stressful environments

8. Take regular vitamin and iron supplements

Doctors often prescribe supplements such as vitamins, iron, calcium, etc. necessary for pregnancy. They should be taken regularly, because:

• Helps in the formation of the baby's bones and teeth

• Prevents anemia

• Reduces the risk of neural tube defects in the baby

9. Completely abstain from smoking and drinking

Smoking and drinking during pregnancy can cause serious risks for the baby and the mother. This can result in:

• Low birth weight

• Premature birth

• Miscarriage

• Problems in the mental and physical development of the baby

Also, you should stay away from secondhand smoke (passive smoke).

10. Get the necessary vaccines

Some vaccines are required during pregnancy, such as:

• Tetanus (TT) injection

• Influenza vaccine

• COVID-19 vaccine (as advised by your doctor)

Vaccines protect the baby from infection.

11. Preparing for delivery

It is necessary to prepare for delivery towards the end of pregnancy. For example:

• Prepare a hospital bag

• Write down emergency contact numbers

• Plan for cesarean/normal delivery

• Prepare necessary clothes and things for the baby

12. What are the symptoms to see a doctor immediately if you see them

Some symptoms during pregnancy can be very serious.

For example:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Bleeding

• Severe headache

• Vision problems

• Severe swelling of the hands and feet

• Decreased baby movement

If these symptoms appear, you should contact a doctor immediately without delay.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a time of joy in a woman's life, but at the same time it is also a time of great responsibility. Living a conscious life is very important for the well-being of herself and her unborn child. A woman can give birth to a healthy child by maintaining proper diet, adequate rest, regular medical treatment and mental peace.

Small care during pregnancy creates the foundation for a healthy, beautiful life in the future. So let's stand by every pregnant mother, make this beautiful time more beautiful with love and care.