If you have just found out you're pregnant, congratulations! This is certainly an exciting time in your life. It can also be a bit overwhelming, as you want to do everything you can to keep your baby healthy as it develops inside your womb. Pregnancy care isn't just about the baby, though. It's also about you. When you put yourself first, you are ensuring you will have a healthy and successful pregnancy.
Here are three tips for a healthy pregnancy.
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
If you think you can eat whatever you want and gain as much weight as you like while pregnant, think again. You might be eating for two, but eating the right foods and maintaining a healthy weight are very important when it comes to pregnancy care.
Some of the best foods to eat during pregnancy include:
- Dairy products (except for soft cheeses)
- Legumes
- Sweet potatoes
- Salmon
- Eggs
- Dark, leafy greens
- Berries
All of these foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, and antioxidants that you and your developing baby need. You should also take certain supplements, such as a prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid and iron. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol are also necessary for a healthy pregnancy.
2. Don't Skip Prenatal Visits
Seeing your OBGYN for prenatal visits is especially important when it comes to pregnancy care. Most expectant patients have their first prenatal visit when they are about 8 weeks pregnant. As the pregnancy continues, the frequency of prenatal visits increases. The goal of an OBGYN is to monitor both you and the baby during your entire pregnancy.
An OBGYN will ensure you are staying at a healthy weight. They will also schedule an ultrasound to ensure the baby is developing normally. Prenatal visits are also important for detecting problems early on so that you can receive the appropriate treatment. Some conditions that pregnant people can get include gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, and iron deficiency anemia.
3. Take Care of Your Teeth
You might be surprised to learn that good oral health can actually have a positive effect on your pregnancy. This is why pregnancy care should include brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis, as well as having a dental hygienist clean your teeth.
If you don't take good care of your teeth, you are at an increased risk of gum disease, which has been linked to preterm labor. According to a recent study, preterm labor was also more common for those who had untreated tooth decay and dental fillings.
