5 Tips to Boost Your Chances of Having a Problem-Free Pregnancy & Have a Healthy Baby

During pregnancy, it is more important than ever to take proper care of yourself both physically and mentally. What you consume before becoming pregnant, during your pregnancy and even after birth can affect you and your little one. Eating the right foods and avoiding harmful ones, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking and drinking are all important if you want to increase the health outcomes of your pregnancy.

Simple Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

To stay healthy during the pregnancy period you can follow these tips.

1. Schedule a prenatal visit with your doctor

Good prenatal care is essential for you and your baby. If you're pregnant, then you must schedule an appointment with your doctor right away. The prenatal screening is essential to ascertain your current conditions, during which you will be screened for any potential complications. During the prenatal visit, you can also consult with your doctor about the type of medication and supplementation required for you and your baby.

2. Make a list of what you eat

Write down the list of food items you have been eating. Now you may have to add in some extra calories as well as increase the intake of protein. Ensuring a wholesome diet comprising veggies, legumes, nuts, and seeds are important to meet the nutritional goals.

3. Take supplements regularly

Certain supplements such as iron, folic acid and multivitamins should be a part of daily routine. Adequate intake of folic acid is required as it reduces your baby’s risk of developing birth defects

Along with folic acid, add enough iron as its requirement increases during the second and third trimesters.

4. Follow a regular exercise plan

Following a good exercise program can provide you with the strength and endurance you require to carry the extra weight during the pregnancy period. Besides this, it also prevents any aches & pains as well as helps you manage physical stress.

5. Cut down on caffeine

Limit your caffeine consumption usually to a cup of strong coffee per day. According to research, women consuming more than 200 mg of caffeine per day, risk their chances of miscarriage.

While caffeine has no nutritive value it also makes it harder for your body to absorb iron, which is required in increased quantity by your body during pregnancy.

Besides following the above-mentioned tips for a healthy pregnancy, you should also be aware of the signs of an unhealthy pregnancy so that you can contact your doctor immediately.

When to Call the Doctor?

If you're pregnant for the first time, you might feel more confused and concerned than experienced expecting mothers. Even a little twinge or pain can alert you. Here are some symptoms that may indicate or lead to a complication during your pregnancy. You should call your doctor as soon as you experience these symptoms:

• Shooting pain
• Strong cramps
• Vaginal bleeding
• Fluid discharge
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations in the heart
• Excessive nausea and vomiting
• Trouble walking, swelling in joints
• Decreased fetal activity
• Contractions at 20-minute intervals

Of course, these are some tips which can help you ensure a healthy pregnancy. But you need to be consistent in following the tips and adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent any birth defects.