Did you know that over 40 percent of pregnancies in developing countries face serious issues? These issues can harm the mother or child. This fact shows how crucial it is for pregnant women to focus on their health and take steps to stay safe.
Women of childbearing age make up 21% of the population1. Pregnant women are 4.5% of the population1. This means many women need to focus on their health during pregnancy. This guide will share key tips to help moms-to-be stay safe and healthy.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand the importance of prenatal vitamins and a balanced diet for adequate nutrient intake.
- Establish an active exercise routine and create a detailed birth plan to ensure a safer pregnancy and delivery.
- Attend childbirth classes, practice Kegel exercises, and avoid harmful substances to further enhance maternal safety.
- Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on medications, spa treatments, and other precautions to protect yourself and your baby.
- Stay hydrated, limit caffeine intake, and take steps to prevent infections for a healthier pregnancy.
The Importance of Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure Adequate Nutrient Intake from the Start
Start taking prenatal vitamins as soon as you know you’re pregnant, or even before trying to conceive. These vitamins are key for your baby’s growth, providing nutrients like folate, calcium, and iron. These nutrients help develop your baby’s neural tube, brain, and spinal cord in the first month of pregnancy2. If prenatal vitamins make you feel sick, try taking them at night or with a snack.
Folic acid is a must-have in prenatal vitamins. It prevents neural tube defects and should be taken before pregnancy starts2. Aim for 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily, but higher doses might be needed in some cases34.
Iron in prenatal vitamins is crucial for the fetus and placenta’s growth, preventing anemia2. Pregnant women should get 27 mg of iron daily3. Iron might cause constipation, but you can fight it by drinking more water, eating more fiber, and staying active.
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish are great for the baby’s brain, and supplements are suggested if you don’t eat fish often2. Vitamins C, A, E, B, zinc, iodine, calcium, and vitamin D are also vital in prenatal vitamins2.
Women should take prenatal vitamins before getting pregnant, as the baby’s neural tube starts forming early2. Prenatal supplements, including folic acid, boost fetal growth, lower birth defect risks, and help mom’s health4.
But, don’t overdo it with prenatal vitamins. Too much Vitamin A can harm the baby2. Make sure your prenatal vitamins are tested by groups like U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International for safety3.
Stay Active and Exercise Regularly
Being active and exercising during pregnancy is great for you and your baby. Exercise can reduce stress, improve blood flow, lift your mood, and help you sleep better.5 Good choices include walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga to support a healthy pregnancy56. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days, but don’t push yourself too hard6.
Regular exercise during pregnancy is safe and has many health benefits unless there are health issues5. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week during pregnancy and after giving birth56. Not being active enough is a big risk for early death, so it’s key to stay active5.
Exercise during pregnancy can lead to many good things like easier vaginal delivery and less weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure, early birth, cesarean delivery, and lower birth weight5. Pregnancy changes can cause back pain in over 60% of women. Doing exercises to strengthen your back and belly muscles can help5.
| Activity | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Moderate-intensity exercise | At least 150 minutes per week |
| Kegel exercises | 5 sets per day, 10 reps per set |
| Exercises to strengthen pelvic, hip, and thigh muscles | Can help relieve low back pain |
| Avoid exercises to lose weight, contact sports, and fall-prone activities | As pregnancy progresses |
Avoid overdoing it with exercise during pregnancy to keep blood flow good and avoid getting too tired6. Talk to your doctor before starting an exercise plan if you have health concerns or conditions6.
“Physical activity in pregnancy has shown minimal risks and benefits most women, although some modifications to exercise routines may be necessary due to anatomical, physiological changes, and fetal requirements.”5
Create a Detailed Birth Plan
Writing a birth plan can make you feel in control of your labor and delivery experience7. This guide will show you how to make a birth plan. It helps guide your healthcare team and support network through this big moment7.
Outline Your Preferences and Wishes
Birth plans are flexible and can change as your pregnancy goes on7. They let you adjust them as needed during labor and delivery7. Think about who you want there, what procedures you don’t want, your favorite positions, and how you want pain managed and any complications handled7.
Talking about your birth plan with your healthcare provider is a good idea7. They can give you advice and make sure your wishes fit with what’s best for your health7. You can start making your birth plan early, giving you time to think and talk about it with your loved ones7.
Include your cultural beliefs and likes in your birth plan7. This might mean having certain people there, doing traditional rituals, or following certain diets7. By sharing your wishes, you take an active part in your birthing experience. This can also make you and your baby safer7.
- Key support network individuals
- Cultural factors and preferences
- Preference for staying active during labor
- Birth location preferences (hospital, birthing center, home)
- Preferred labor positions
- Pain relief options
- Preference for medical intervention versus prolonged labor
- Preferences for post-birth care, such as skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding plans
There are more resources and help out there, like guides from NSW Health and The Royal Women’s Hospital7. Maternal child health nurses offer great advice and support through Pregnancy, Birth, and Baby services7.
By making a detailed birth plan, you can make sure your wishes are respected during this big event7.
Attend Childbirth Classes
Getting ready for childbirth can be thrilling and a bit scary, especially for first-time parents. Taking a childbirth education class can make you feel ready and confident. These classes teach you about labor, delivery, and caring for your newborn. They help you feel prepared for the birthing process.
Sibley Memorial Hospital suggests that expectant parents start childbirth classes in the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy8. These classes are popular and book up fast, usually listed 4 to 6 weeks before the class date8. It’s important to sign up early since there are no walk-ins allowed because of limited seats8.
The Childbirth Education Program at the University of Maryland Medical Center has many classes for expectant parents, grandparents, and their support people9. Nurses teach these classes, covering topics like childbirth, cesarean delivery, breastfeeding, postpartum care, caring for infants, and special care for NICU babies9.
Prices for these classes vary, with some free for those getting prenatal care at certain offices. Others cost $25 to $45 per couple or individual9. The program also offers virtual classes and tours, making it easier for expectant parents to join9.
Going to a childbirth class gives you great support and preparation. It helps you feel more informed and confident as you start this new chapter. By preparing yourself, you’ll be ready for the challenges and joys of childbirth. This ensures a positive and empowering experience for you and your newborn.
Practice Kegel Exercises
Keeping your pelvic floor strong is key for your health during pregnancy and after giving birth. Kegel exercises are a simple way to strengthen muscles that support your bladder, bowels, and uterus. Doing Kegels regularly during pregnancy and after can make delivery easier and help prevent issues like incontinence.10
Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Muscles
To do Kegels, squeeze your muscles like you’re stopping urine flow, hold for three seconds, then relax for three seconds. Do this 10 times for a set, and you can do Kegels anytime, anywhere11. This exercise has many benefits, like reducing the chance of losing bladder control after childbirth, helping with healing, and improving pelvic floor strength11.
About a third of women lose bladder control after having a baby, but Kegels can prevent and fix this10. If you get a tear during childbirth, Kegels might stop you from losing control of your bowels later on10. They can also slow down Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)10. Plus, Kegels make sex more fun and can improve your sexual health and pleasure10.
Doctors say to do Kegels often as a way to keep your pelvic muscles strong10. You should do 20 Kegels, five times a day, to strengthen your muscles11. Doing these exercises during pregnancy can also make pushing during childbirth easier11.
Weak muscles in your pelvic floor can cause leaking when you cough, sneeze, or strain during pregnancy11. Strengthening these muscles can lower your risk of leaking after having a baby11. These exercises also help with healing after childbirth and can prevent pelvic floor problems11.
If your pelvic organs drop into your vagina, exercises can help fix this condition11. Always talk to your doctor or a support person for advice on the best exercises for you11.
Avoid Harmful Substances
During pregnancy, it’s key to avoid substances that can harm both mom and baby. Drinking alcohol can lead to preterm birth, brain damage, and disorders in the baby12. Experts say to avoid alcohol to prevent these issues12.
Smoking is also a big concern. It exposes the baby to over 7,000 harmful chemicals12. These chemicals can cause birth defects like cleft lip and palate12. Even secondhand smoke can increase the risk of these problems12. It’s best to quit smoking and vaping before getting pregnant to protect your baby’s health12.
Using drugs during pregnancy can cause preterm birth, low birth weight, and birth defects12. Marijuana use is risky for the baby’s health before and after birth12. Pregnant women should stop using marijuana and talk to their doctor about safer options12.
Being exposed to certain chemicals at home can also be harmful during pregnancy. Pesticides, herbicides, lead, mercury, and BPA can harm the developing baby and newborn13. There are guidelines to follow to limit exposure to these substances13.
If you have addiction issues or concerns about substance use, tell your healthcare provider. They can help you find support and programs to quit. This ensures the safety of you and your baby12.
“Protecting your baby’s health starts with making informed choices about what to avoid during pregnancy.”
Take Precautions with Household Tasks
When you’re pregnant, simple tasks like cleaning the bathroom or changing the kitty litter can be risky. Pregnancy safety is crucial, as even everyday chores can be harmful. To keep yourself and your baby safe, it’s key to be careful with household duties.
Minimize Exposure to Toxins and Germs
Stay away from harsh cleaning products that have toxic stuff in them. Choose natural, safe options instead14. Don’t climb on ladders or step stools because you’re more likely to fall14. When you’re dealing with raw meat, wear gloves to avoid getting sick14. And, when you’re changing the litter box, wear gloves too to prevent toxoplasmosis, a bug that can harm your baby14.
Being exposed to harmful substances, standing for a long time, lifting heavy things, climbing, or carrying heavy items can be bad for your pregnancy. These things can also make you more likely to go into labor too soon14. By being careful, you can keep yourself and your baby safe from harmful toxin exposure and household chores that could hurt your pregnancy safety.
“Focusing on maternal health and safety during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child.” – Dr. Sarah Johnson, Obstetrician-Gynecologist
Putting your safety first during pregnancy is very important. By knowing the risks of common household tasks and how to avoid them, you can have a healthier and easier pregnancy141516.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider Before Taking Medications
Taking medications while pregnant can be tricky. Even common over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen can be risky for your baby17. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies17.
It’s hard to test medications on pregnant women because of legal and ethical issues18. This means we often don’t know if medications are safe or work well for pregnant women18. Women with chronic illnesses face extra challenges in managing their health during pregnancy18.
When deciding on medication during pregnancy, think about your health, the condition’s severity, and the risks to your baby18. Unfortunately, both you and your healthcare provider might not have enough info to make good choices18.
To make safe choices, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks to your baby, the risks of not treating your condition, safer medication options, how long you’ll need treatment, and its effects on pregnancy18. This conversation can help you make the best decisions for your health and your baby’s.
Medication labels warn about risks during pregnancy, including effects on the fetus and breastfeeding17. Pregnancy registries collect data on how medicines and vaccines affect pregnant women and their babies17.
The FDA helps regulate information on medicines, vaccines, and more17. Pregnant women can join these studies to help research medication safety during pregnancy17.
| Medication Use During Pregnancy | Prevalence |
|---|---|
| Prescription drug use | 398 to 407 cases per 1,00019 |
| Dietary supplement use | 433 to 437 cases out of 1,00019 |
| Newborn malformations due to spontaneous mutations | 19 to 23 infants out of every 1,000 births19 |
| Malformations attributed to the use of salicylates during pregnancy for gastroschisis | 241 to 243 cases per 1,00019 |
| Gastroschisis and small intestinal atresia risks associated with maternal medication use | 26 to 31 infants per 1,000 births19 |
| Risk of neural tube defects due to the use of folic acid antagonists during pregnancy | 961 to 968 births per 1,00019 |
| Infants with major malformations exposed to valproate during pregnancy | 64 to 65 infants out of every 1,00019 |
| Accutane®-exposed pregnancies | 142 to 147 newborns per 1,000 deliveries19 |
Working with your healthcare provider and staying informed about medication safety during pregnancy helps you make choices that protect you and your baby. The FDA’s resources offer great advice on this important topic of maternal health.
Wear Comfortable Shoes and Elevate Your Feet
During pregnancy, your weight gain can put extra pressure on your feet, causing swelling and discomfort20. This swelling, or edema, usually happens in the second or third trimester. It’s due to more blood and higher blood pressure, which leads to water retention and swelling20. To ease this, wearing comfy shoes and lifting your feet often is key.
Flat feet are common during pregnancy, causing foot pain from the arch flattening under extra weight20. Ingrown toenails also rise in pregnant women, as foot size and shape changes can push the nail into the skin20. Wearing supportive shoes and lifting your feet can help keep your feet healthy and comfortable during pregnancy.
Be careful not to do activities that could make you lose your balance, like climbing ladders or stepping stools21. Pregnancy ups the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by fivefold, and a history of blood clots in you or your family raises your risk too21. Taking breaks to elevate your feet can boost blood flow and lower swelling and foot issues risks.
| Foot Condition | Prevalence During Pregnancy | Contributing Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Flat Feet | Most common foot-related symptom | Increased body weight |
| Edema (Swelling) | Typical in 2nd or 3rd trimester | Increased blood volume and pressure |
| Ingrown Toenails | More prevalent | Changes in foot size, shape, and positioning |
| Hot or Burning Sensations | Experienced by some | Hormonal changes and fatigue |
| Cracked Heels | Common complaint | Weight and posture changes |
By choosing comfy shoes and lifting your feet, you can ease many foot issues linked to pregnancy. This keeps you comfortable during this special time2021.
“Elevating my feet several times a day has been a game-changer in managing the swelling and discomfort I experienced during my pregnancy. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain maternal comfort.”
Be Cautious with Spa Treatments and Essential Oils
Pregnancy is a time filled with joy and excitement. Yet, it’s crucial to put your safety first. When thinking about spa treatments, be careful with certain services and essential oils. Some essential oils, like juniper, rosemary, and clary sage, can cause uterine contractions. This is true in the first and second trimesters22. Always talk to your healthcare provider before using essential oils or spa treatments.
Stay away from saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs because they can make you too hot. This is bad for your baby23. But, there are spa services that are safe during pregnancy:
- First trimester: Facials, manicures, and pedicures are usually safe23.
- Second trimester: You can enjoy more spa treatments, like massages and gentle services23.
- Third trimester: Keep following the advice from the second trimester. Focus on staying hydrated, eating well, and enjoying gentle spa experiences23.
Make sure prenatal massages are done by a certified therapist22. These therapists know how to help pregnant women. They can ease discomfort and prepare you for labor22.
“Pregnancy is a delicate time, and it’s crucial to be cautious about the treatments and products you use. Always consult with your healthcare provider before trying anything new.”
By being careful and talking to experts, pregnant women can enjoy spa treatments and essential oils safely. This makes this special time even better.
Stay Hydrated by Drinking Plenty of Water
Drinking enough water is key during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests 64 to 96 ounces (1.9 to 2.8 liters) of water a day24. This is about 8 to 12 cups. Pregnant women need at least 2 liters of water daily. When breastfeeding, they need 128 ounces (3.8 liters or 16 cups) of water24.
Not drinking enough water can slow down your baby’s growth. It can affect their weight, head size, and length at birth24. Sadly, over half of pregnant women don’t get enough water24.
If plain water doesn’t taste good, add a slice of lemon or some fruit juice. Pregnant women should drink 300 milliliters more water than those who aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding25. A study looked at 653 urine samples from pregnant women. It found many women got dehydrated in the second and third trimesters25.
Drinking lots of water can prevent pregnancy symptoms like constipation and swelling24. It’s also important for breastfeeding moms. Up to 300 milligrams of caffeine daily is safe, as it helps with hydration for the baby24.
| Hydration Recommendations | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water Intake during Pregnancy | 64 to 96 ounces (1.9 to 2.8 liters) per day |
| Water Intake while Breastfeeding | 128 ounces (3.8 liters or 16 cups) per day |
| Caffeine Intake while Breastfeeding | Up to 300 milligrams (approximately 3 cups of coffee) per day |
“The study underscores the importance of hydration during pregnancy and the need for trimester-specific recommendations. The research suggests that large proportions of pregnant women worldwide fail to meet recommendations on adequate water intake.”25
Drinking plenty of water is key for your health and your baby’s growth. Following these guidelines can help you have a healthy pregnancy and after.
Eat a Balanced Diet Rich in Folate
During pregnancy, eating foods full of folate is key for your baby’s brain and spinal cord to grow right26. Folate, a type of vitamin B9, is crucial for this growth. It’s important for moms-to-be to get enough of it.
Having enough folate means your blood levels are above 3 ng/mL26. If your blood has more than 140 ng/mL of folate, you’re good to go26. Your body stores about 15 to 30 mg of folate, mostly in your liver and some in your blood and tissues26.
To get enough folate, eat foods that are full of it every day. Great choices are fortified cereals, asparagus, lentils, wheat germ, oranges, and orange juice26. Pregnant women need 600 to 1,000 micrograms of folate or folic acid daily27.
| Age Group | Folate RDA (mcg/day) |
|---|---|
| Pregnant Women | 600-1,000 mcg |
| Non-Pregnant Women | 400 mcg |
| Men | 400 mcg |
| Children | 300-400 mcg |
The FDA says adults and kids over 4 need 400 mcg of folate a day26. Eating a mix of folate-rich foods helps your baby’s neural tube grow right and lowers the chance of defects27.
“Adequate folate intake during pregnancy is essential for the proper development of your baby’s brain and spinal cord.”
Limit Caffeine Intake
When you’re pregnant, watch how much caffeine you drink. Experts say to limit it because it can harm you and your baby28. Caffeine takes longer to break down in pregnancy and can reach the baby, raising the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight29.
Struggling to give up your morning coffee? Try a natural energy boost like fruit or herbal tea28. A study found that up to 100 mg of caffeine a day in the second trimester cut down gestational diabetes risk by 47%28. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest pregnant women stick to less than 200 mg of caffeine daily28.
Even a little caffeine can affect your baby’s growth29. Women who had less than half a cup of coffee had babies 66 grams lighter on average29. Babies of women with high caffeine levels were 84 grams lighter, 0.44 centimeters shorter, and had a smaller head size at birth29.
Caffeine’s effects don’t stop after birth30. Babies of women with low caffeine intake were shorter than those with none, and the gap grew as they got older30. Kids of women with high caffeine use were 1.5 centimeters shorter, and the gap grew from 0.68 cm at 4 to 2.2 cm at 8 years old30.
The link between caffeine and child weight, BMI, and obesity is still being studied30. Always talk to your doctor about how much caffeine is safe for you29.
By cutting down on caffeine, you can lower risks to your health and your baby’s growth. Small steps can make a big difference. Try reducing caffeine slowly and find other ways to boost your energy.
Maternal Safety: Protect Yourself from Infections
Keeping yourself healthy during pregnancy is key. Washing your hands often is a big step in keeping you and your baby safe from infections. This helps prevent diseases like Group B streptococcus, Fifth disease, cytomegalovirus, and chickenpox, which can be harmful during pregnancy31.
When you can’t wash your hands, using an ethyl alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is a good alternative. It helps stop the spread of germs31. Keeping your hands clean is a simple way to protect yourself and your baby.
Healthcare experts stress the need for pregnancy precautions to keep expectant moms safe. They recommend pregnant women, including those working in healthcare, get COVID-19 vaccines31. The risk of harm to the baby from mRNA vaccines is very low. So, pregnant women should get the vaccine if they can31.
The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) keeps an eye on how well COVID-19 vaccines work and are safe for pregnant women. They will update advice as needed31. Staying alert and following doctor advice helps keep expectant moms and their babies safe.
“Frequent handwashing can help protect you and your baby from a variety of infections, including Group B streptococcus, Fifth disease, cytomegalovirus, and chickenpox, all of which can cause severe complications during pregnancy.”
The Maternal, Infant, and Child Health (MICH) Workgroup aims to lower disease rates among women, infants, and children. They look at risky behaviors and health conditions during pregnancy and after32. Their goals include reducing pregnancy problems, improving healthcare access, supporting breastfeeding, and ensuring safe sleep for babies32.
The MICH goals match up with federal programs like the Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant Program, Birth to 5: Watch Me Thrive, and Learn the Signs. Act Early. They work with groups like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics32.
By focusing on maternal health, infection prevention, and hand hygiene, pregnant women can take steps to protect themselves and their babies. This ensures a healthy pregnancy for everyone involved.
| Study Details | Key Findings |
|---|---|
| 16 randomised trials with data for 12,080 women, conducted in both high- and low-resource settings |
|
Conclusion
Keeping the mom-to-be safe during pregnancy and childbirth is key for the best outcomes for both mom and baby. In 2022, the US saw over 3.6 million births, mostly in hospitals34. But, concerns remain, like over 10% of births being preterm and nearly 32% by cesarean section34. Sadly, the US’s maternal death rate jumped from 17.4 per 100,000 in 2018 to 32.9 per 100,000 in 202134.
Racial and ethnic disparities in these deaths are clear, with non-Hispanic Black women facing a rate of 69.9 per 100,000. This is much higher than the rates for Hispanic women at 18.0 per 100,000 and non-Hispanic White women at 26.6 per 100,00034.
This guide offers tips like taking prenatal vitamins, staying active, making a birth plan, and keeping clean. These steps help expectant moms tackle risks and aim for a healthy, safe pregnancy and birth34. Sadly, 80% of pregnancy-related deaths were preventable, and many maternal deaths had some chance of prevention34. Also, over half of rural US counties lack hospital-based obstetric services, which can affect timely care and worsen outcomes34.
By focusing on safety, following pregnancy advice, keeping a healthy pregnancy, and preparing for childbirth, moms-to-be can make a positive difference. The challenges in maternal health are big, but with support and resources, moms can face this journey with hope and strength.
FAQ
What are the benefits of taking prenatal vitamins?
Prenatal vitamins give you the key nutrients like folate, calcium, and iron. These support your baby’s neural tube, brain, and spinal cord growth in the first month of pregnancy.
What are some safe and effective exercises to do during pregnancy?
Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are good choices for a healthy pregnancy. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days. But, listen to your body and don’t overdo it.
Why is it important to create a detailed birth plan?
A detailed birth plan lets you share your wishes with your healthcare team. It covers who you want there, what procedures you’d like to avoid, and your choices for pain relief and handling complications.
What are the benefits of attending a childbirth class?
Childbirth classes teach you about labor, delivery, and caring for your baby. They let you ask questions and feel more prepared. Knowing the birthing facility and staff can also boost your confidence.
How do Kegel exercises benefit pregnant women?
Kegels can make delivery easier and help prevent issues like incontinence later. They strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which support your bladder, bowels, and uterus.
What types of substances should be avoided during pregnancy?
Avoid tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and some household chemicals. These can cause birth defects, miscarriage, and other problems.
What precautions should be taken with household tasks during pregnancy?
Don’t use harsh cleaners, climb high, or handle raw meat. Wear gloves in the yard or when changing the litter box to avoid toxoplasmosis.
When should I consult my healthcare provider about medications?
Always check with your doctor before taking any medicines or supplements during pregnancy. Even common over-the-counter items can be risky for your baby.
How can I alleviate swelling and discomfort in my feet during pregnancy?
Wear comfy shoes and raise your feet often to reduce swelling. Be careful not to lose your balance with certain activities.
What spa treatments and essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy?
Stay out of saunas and hot tubs to avoid overheating. Some essential oils, like juniper and rosemary, can cause contractions, especially early on.
How much water should I be drinking during pregnancy?
Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to prevent issues like constipation and swelling. It helps with fatigue and keeps you hydrated.
What foods are rich in folate, and why is it important?
Folate is vital for your baby’s brain and spinal cord development. Eat foods like fortified cereals, asparagus, and oranges to get enough folate.
How much caffeine should I limit during pregnancy?
Limit caffeine to protect you and your baby. It’s slower to process during pregnancy and can cross the placenta, raising the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.
Why is good hand hygiene important during pregnancy?
Wash your hands often to protect you and your baby from infections. This can prevent serious issues like Group B strep and chickenpox.
Source Links
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- Pregnancy and Prenatal Vitamins
- A critical evaluation of prenatal supplements: Are they meeting the mark?
- Physical Activity and Exercise During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period
- Exercise During Pregnancy
- Making a birth plan
- Childbirth Education
- Childbirth Classes
- Kegel Exercises During Pregnancy and Postpartum
- The Best Pelvic Floor Exercises During Pregnancy
- How to avoid harmful substances during pregnancy
- Toxic household products to avoid during pregnancy
- Working during pregnancy: Do’s and don’ts
- Work Activity in Pregnancy, Preventive Measures, and the Risk of Delivering a Small-for-Gestational-Age Infant
- Medicine and pregnancy
- Taking Medication During Pregnancy | Pfizer
- Ensuring the Safe and Effective Use of Medications During Pregnancy: Planning and Prevention Through Preconception Care
- Foot Conditions and Pregnancy
- Swelling in Pregnancy: When to Worry (and What’s Perfectly OK)
- What Are the Risks of Prenatal Massage Therapy? | Chi Spa Massage & Bodyworks Studio
- Pregnancy Spa Guide | Spabreaks.com
- What to Know About Staying Hydrated While Pregnant and Breastfeeding
- Hydration can impact pregnancy and birth outcomes | Penn State University
- Office of Dietary Supplements – Folate
- Pregnancy diet: Focus on these essential nutrients
- Moderate Amounts of Caffeine Not Linked to Maternal Health Risks
- Moderate daily caffeine intake during pregnancy may lead to smaller birth size
- Science Update: Caffeine consumption during pregnancy may lead to slightly shorter child height
- SMFM Vaccine Statement 12-1-20 (final).PDF
- Maternal, Infant, and Child Health Workgroup – Healthy People 2030
- Schedules for home visits in the early postpartum period
- Maternal Safety | PSNet
