“A Healthy Pregnancy “By : Haley BoydParentingOct 12, 2012

Prenatal Medical Care• Prenatal care or health care during pregnancy is essential for the health of both the expectant mother and her developing baby.

• A woman who does not receive proper prenatal care places herself and her baby at risk .

• A physician or other health care provider is a key partner in a healthful pregnancy . Some women obtain prenatal care from their primary care physician.

• Most women choose and obstetrician a medical doctor who specializes in pregnancy and delivery.

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Discomforts of Pregnancy • Many Women feel fine throughout

pregnancy . Some of these discomforts are caused by hormonal changes.

• Pregnant women often feel the need to urinate more frequently as the expanding uterus creates pressure on the bladder.

Rest • Pregnant women need plenty of rest .

In addition to sleeping at least eight hours a night.

• Rest can include taking a nap , reading a book , listening to music and writing In a journal .

Exercise• Exercise is beneficial before , during , and

after pregnancy .• Low-impact , moderately intense activities ,

such as walking and swimming are good choices . A special activity called the kegel exercise helps strengthen and prepare the pelvic floor for delivery .

Precautions• Consult with a health care provider before beginning or changing and exercise routine.

• Drink plenty of fluids before , during and after exercise.

• Slow down or stop if she feels short of breath or uncomfortable.

Calorie Needs• Calories measures the energy provided by food or used in activities. A pregnant woman needs energy for her own body’s needs and the needs for her own body’s needs an the needs of the growing fetus too.

Nutrient Needs•Grain Products such as bread , cereal , rice and pasta

•Dry beans and peas •Other starchy vegetables , potatoes and corn .

Healthy Food For Pregnant Woman .

Avoiding Prenatal Health Risks• Health Risks during pregnancy can

come from many sources. • They include exposure to tobacco ,

alcohol , illegal drugs , certain mediations , x-rays , chemical hazards , and infections .

• All these are potentially harmful to the fetus

Food Safety During Pregnancy

• Pregnant woman are at a high risk for food borne illness which can cause symptoms such as diarrhea .

• Pregnant woman should avoid the following foods :

• Raw milk and foods made from raw milk • Soft Cheese ( such as Brie , feta , blue )• Raw or uncooked meat

Tobacco , Alcohol , and Illegal Drugs • Smoking cigarettes or using other forms of tobacco is dangerous because it limits the amount of oxygen the fetus receives .

• So pregnant women should avoid smokers.

• Alcohol use during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage , stillbirth and low birth weight .

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications• A pregnant woman must inform her

health care provider of any prescription medicines she is taking .

• If a drug is not safe to take during pregnancy the health care provider may recommend a safe substitute.

• A pregnant woman should always consult her health care provider before taking any over-the-counter medication.

All Sources • www.EHow.com

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