Expecting a child is a joyous and transformative experience, but when a pregnancy is considered high-risk, it can also be accompanied by anxiety and extra care requirements. To ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby, it’s crucial to be aware of the dos and don’ts during a high-risk pregnancy. This guide aims to provide essential insights from an experienced high-risk pregnancy doctor in Behala for expectant mothers.
What to do during pregnancy?
For expecting mothers, following these 5 tips will certainly help them experience a smooth delivery and a healthy baby:
1. Get lots of sleep
During a high-risk pregnancy, quality sleep can be elusive due to hormonal changes and discomfort. When you feel tired, consider taking short naps, and aim for a restful night’s sleep lasting between 7 to 9 hours. Prioritizing this sleep duration not only helps you manage these changes but also benefits your immune system, enhances brain function, and maintains optimal growth hormone levels for both you and your growing baby.
2. Work out
Staying active while you’re pregnant is a good idea. In a high-risk pregnancy, light exercises help avoid issues like trouble sleeping, muscle pain, and gaining too much weight. Exercise might also lower the risk of gestational diabetes, reduce stress, and give you more energy. Try doing yoga. It’s great for your body during pregnancy. Yoga stretches your muscles and makes you stronger, especially in your lower body. However, before you start exercising, make sure to consult a gynaecologist.
3. Eat Healthy
Eating well during pregnancy is important, but it doesn’t mean eating double the usual amount. Eating unhealthy food like alcohol, soft cheese, ice-creams, etc. is prohibited. Instead, focus on eating lots of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean meats. Avoid sugary and processed foods as much as possible.
5. Take Vitamins
Don’t forget to take your vitamins. They’re important for you and your baby. Prenatal vitamins like folic acid, calcium, and iron can help prevent birth defects and help in your baby’s healthy growth. Talk to a doctor for the recommended dosage.
What not to do during pregnancy?
Expectant mothers should be careful about the following things:
1. Don’t smoke tobacco or nicotine products
Women with high-risk pregnancy must avoid tobacco and nicotine products. Smoking can result in severe health issues for your baby, such as premature birth, low birth weight, birth defects, and higher risks of miscarriage or sudden infant death syndrome. Nicotine can harm your baby’s brain and lungs. Quitting smoking in early pregnancy significantly lowers these risks for both you and your baby.
2. Don’t consume alcohol
Refrain from alcohol completely during pregnancy. Even before realizing you’re pregnant, any alcohol consumption can harm your baby’s development, potentially leading to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). FAS results in symptoms like low birth weight, learning difficulties, behavioral issues, and developmental delays.
Navigating a high-risk pregnancy requires special attention and care. By adhering to the dos and don’ts outlined in this guide, you can significantly enhance your chances of a safe and healthy pregnancy.