Although all women dream for a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby, it doesn’t always happen. Pre-conception counselling prior to pregnancy, can enhance safety during this journey. Here’s the
Tips for Healthy Pregnancy and Delivery
Age
In today’s times, the conflict between career and motherhood, delays pregnancy to the thirties and even early forties. Younger women have less problems conceiving and have healthier pregnancies.
Weight
It is advisable to start pregnancy at a healthy weight (BMI of 18.5-25). Maintaining weight gain in a healthy range during pregnancy, helps prevent complications.
Medical Disorders
High sugar levels can affect the foetus. Diabetic women must check their HbA1c level (should be less than 7), before pregnancy. Blood sugar levels tend to naturally rise due to pregnancy changes.
Women on medication need to change to safer medicines prior to pregnancy. Meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques and optimal salt and fluid intake also make a positive impact. Women with heart disease, SLE, renal disease, previous thrombosis, stroke or any such health issues need to meet their specialist prior to and during pregnancy.
Infections
For those who lack Rubella and Chickenpox immunity, vaccines can be taken. Eating undercooked meat, exposure to cats and dogs, drinking unpasteurized milk or consuming possibly contaminated food, should be avoided. Routine vaccinations recommended during pregnancy include Td (Tetanus & diphtheria), influenza, pertussis and Covid.
Dietary Supplements
A balanced, wholesome diet is the key to a healthy pregnancy. Iron, calcium, vitamin D, protein and other supplements are given in pregnancy. Taking folic acid in the first trimester of pregnancy (can also be started earlier) can prevent neural tube defects in the growing foetus.
Ultrasound of Foetus
Routine scans at around 7 weeks, 12 weeks (NT scan), 20 weeks (anomaly scan) and later growth scans, as required, are important to monitor foetal growth.
Blood Tests
Tests for haemoglobin, sugar, thyroid status, blood group & type and infections are usually advised in the first trimester. Chromosomal abnormalities in the baby can be screened through double marker or NIPT (Non-invasive prenatal testing). Glucose challenge test enables screening for gestational diabetes.
Exercises
Healthy pregnant women can walk, perform yoga or exercise to keep fit and active and ensure better digestion and flexibility. Certain postures and exercises after 32 weeks, can help achieve normal delivery.
Mental Preparation
A happy, positive, and relaxed mind-set is the key to achieving success. Given tips will help you in healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Doctor Details:
Dr. Radha S Rao
MBBS, MS, MRCOG(UK), DFFP
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Jaya Nagar, Bengaluru
