10
aspire
Fall 2014
PREGNANCY
WHEN
you’re pregnant, a lot of things that you do can have
an effect on your baby—an effect that continues long after your
baby is born.
That’s why it’s crucial to make good decisions about diet,
exercise, health care and lifestyle habits during this important time.
The best way to take care of your baby is to take care of yourself.
Prenatal care
Prenatal care is the care you receive during your pregnancy.
Pregnant women who see a health care provider regularly
decrease their risk of pregnancy complications. During your
prenatal visits, your provider will talk with you about the best ways
to give your baby a healthy start in life, answer any questions you
might have, and check to make sure you and your baby are healthy.
Regular prenatal care also gives your provider a better chance
to detect and treat potential problems early, according to the
Office on Women’s Health.
Diet
Another way that you can take care of yourself and your baby
is by following a healthy diet.
Aim to eat a low-fat diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, protein and calcium-rich foods.
In addition, you should avoid certain types of fish that may
contain high levels of mercury, such as shark, swordfish, king
mackerel and tilefish. Cook meat, eggs and fish thoroughly.
Avoid unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses.
Exercise
Following a regular exercise program during pregnancy may
help labor and delivery go more smoothly, and being in good
physical condition may make it easier to get back in shape after
childbirth. If you were exercising before you became pregnant,
it’s usually OK to continue. But ask your provider about which
exercises are safe for you.
Your changing body can affect your balance and increase
your risk of a fall. Avoid exercises that involve jumping, quick
stops and starts, and change-of-direction movement.
If you don’t already exercise, start slowly and don’t overdo it.
Consider light exercises, such as walking or swimming, unless
your provider says otherwise.
More healthy hints
The March of Dimes and other experts offer these additional
A healthier
you
can mean a healthier
baby
