Embarking on the journey of parenthood is an extraordinary experience, and caring for your newborn begins well before their arrival. The foundation for a healthy start begins with thoughtful planning even before pregnancy commences.
Today we will share the crucial things you should keep in mind to ensure the well-being of your newborn.
- Start taking Folic acid supplements at least 400 mcg to prevent neural tube defects.
- See that all medical problems like diabetes, hypertension and thyroid problems are under control.
- You should have taken all your immunizations.
- If obese try losing some weight
- Smoking alcohol and drugs are to be avoided.
- As soon as you are pregnant visit your Gynaecologist.
- Antenatal care or prenatal care is important to ensure a healthy mother and healthy baby.
Tests That Are Important During Pregnancy
You will be asked to do tests and ultrasounds at various stages of pregnancy.
- This is to ensure that your Haemoglobin is normal and you do not have diabetes or hypertension whether pre-existing or gestational. If you do have a medical problem you will be treated appropriately. USGs help to see that it is a proper intrauterine pregnancy.
- The NT (nuchal translucency) scan shows that there are no gross chromosomal anomalies.
- The anomaly scan shows that there are no gross anatomical anomalies.
- The Biophysical Profile shows that all is well at 36 weeks.
Things To Watch Out For When Pregnant
- You will learn about the danger signals in pregnancy like swelling of feet, bleeding, blurred vision excess weight gain.
- At every visit, your weight and blood pressure will be checked to see if appropriate.
- Eat healthy and maintain a balanced diet for your and your baby’s heart health. You have to make sure that you and your baby are getting the right amount of nutrients and micronutrients. Have plenty of fruits, vegetables lean proteins and dairy products. Your caloric intake should be appropriate for the trimester you are in so that your weight gain is appropriate.
- You will also be given prenatal vitamins.
- Staying hydrated is important so drink adequate amounts of water and fluids. Do not take an excess of coffee and sugary drinks.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol as both are not good for your heart and your baby’s development.
- You will be advised to exercise. Moderate exercise is good for your heart.
- It is very important to take care of your mental health during and after pregnancy. Chronic stress is not good for your heart. Yoga and deep breathing help.
- Adequate sleep is vital for your heart health and though it is difficult to sleep properly during the last trimester. Find a position where you can at least get sleep for some time.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent infections that can harm your baby.
- Even your dental health is important. Do visit a dentist if any gum issue
- Consider genetic factors if there is a family history of heart problems. Do inform your doctor as it can play a role in your heart health.
- Plan your delivery. If you have pregnancy complications better to deliver at a tertiary entrance.
With a little help from your doctor and by following the above advice you can ensure a heart-smart pregnancy, and besides safeguarding your own heart health you will be giving a healthy start for your little one.
Neha Savla
Mansi Zaveri
KSP Team
Rushita Sheth
