“ A Healthy Pregnancy “

1. “A Healthy Pregnancy “ By : Haley Boyd Parenting Oct 12, 2012

2. 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 .

3. 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. Health Care Providers

4. 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.

5. 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 .

6. 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 .

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Nutrient Needs • Grain Products such as bread , cereal , rice and pasta • Dry beans and peas • Other starchy vegetables , potatoes and corn .

10. Healthy Food For Pregnant Woman .

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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 .

14. 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.

15. All Sources • www.EHow.com • www.Google.com