During Pregnancy

Prioritize prenatal care.

Check in with your healthcare provider regularly to monitor the progress of your pregnancy, In between visits, listen to your body and take careful notes on any changes you experience and want to discuss during your next visit.

Maintain a balanced diet.

Focus on a nutrient-rich diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Avoid excessive intake of unhealthy fats, sugary foods, and processed snacks, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Since everyone’s needs are different, discuss any restrictions or supplements necessary with your provider.

Stay active.

Regular exercise throughout your pregnancy is important. Activities like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics can help maintain physical fitness, boost mood, and prepare your body for labor and delivery. To ensure safety, talk to your provider before beginning or changing your exercise habits.

Get plenty of rest.

Adequate sleep is critical to a healthy pregnancy. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.

Avoid harmful substances.

Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using recreational drugs can lead to serious complications and developmental issues. Additionally, limit your caffeine intake and avoid exposure to environmental hazards.

Minimize stress.

Maternal stress is associated with poor birth outcomes, including an increased number of preterm births, lower birth weights, and higher mortality rates. This stress can also result in poor health for infants and can lead to congenital heart defects and developmental delays.