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PREGNANCY CARE
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Taking care of yourself while pregnant means taking care also of your baby while they are still in your womb. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Prenatal care
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Make an appointment with your doctor once you learned you're pregnant. First visit to the doctor usually happens during the 6th or 8th weeks of pregnancy. Be prepared with your medical history and describe to your doctor exactly what you're feeling. Weight, blood pressure and measurements will be taken every visit to the doctor.
Expect a pelvic exam for the size and shape of your uterus or womb. Some times pap smear is also recommended to check the condition of your cervix or the opening of the uterus.
Besides urine and blood tests samples, other tests may be required if the doctor sees that you and your baby are at risk for any problems.
Weight gain
Weight gain varries for every woman but most pregnant women gain about 25 to 30 pounds. Better discuss with your doctor how much you should gain and remember to eat a balanced diet.
Recommended vitamins
For vitamins, it is always advised to consult your doctor about it. Most of the doctors recommend 1,000 mcg (1 mg) of folic acid every day during pregnancy. It can help baby's brain and spinal cord proper development. Medicines, including pain relievers, should be consulted to the doctor especially during the first three months of pregnancy.
Keep fit
You can still have your regular exercise during pregnancy. According to experts, it can help ease discomfort during pregnancy. Thirty minutes of exercise is good and walking and swimming are highly recommended. But be sure to drink plenty of water while exercising to avoid dehydration. Of course, an advice from the doctor can help you choose what kind of exercise is good for you.
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Managing Pregnancy Discomforts
Morning sickness Vomiting strikes anytime. Small, frequent meals are recommended but avoid greasy stuff. Talk to the doctor if morning sickness causes you to lose weight a lot.
Tiredness. A lot of rest is recommended while pregnant. Daytime nap is good for you and the baby. Anemia is some times the cause of tiredness. Discuss this with your doctor.
Leg cramps. Simply strecth the calf of your leg by curling your toes upward, toward your knee.
Constipation. Drink a lot of fluids and eat fiber foods like fruits and vegetables.
Hemorrhoids. Avoid being constipated and be sure to clean yourself well after bowel movement. A number of warm soaks a day would be great.
Urinating frequently. This can't be helped because as the baby grows, he or she put pressure on your bladder.
Varicose veins. Tight-fitting clothes should be avoided around the legs and the waist. Put your feet up while resting. Better to move around a lot if you have to stand for a long period.
Moodiness. Pregnancy is a big change and hormones are said to be on a roller coaster ride during this period. Don't stress yourself too much.
Heartburn. Don't lie down right after eating and consult your doctor about taking antacids.
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DISCLAIMER:
Information on this
section is provided for
general educational and
informational purposes only.
This information is not
intended as a substitute for
advice, treatment, or
recommendations from health
care professionals. It is
important to follow the advice
of your physician and other
health care professionals
regarding your individual
medical and health care needs.
Please consult with your
physician or other health care
professional before using any
drug product discussed within
this Website.
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