Pregnancy is a beautiful and happy time, but it’s also a stage in your life where your health is paramount. Because you’re eating, and living, for two everything you do matters that much more. During pregnancy, your body undergoes a number of changes and the first trimester is the most uncertain time, where any infections, stress or physical pain being potentially harmful to the baby. It’s important during this stage that you remain calm and stress-free, avoid alcohol and drugs, and keep yourself as healthy as possible. after your pregnancy has been confirmed, you should consult your gynaecologist to undergo the various tests you need to make sure you’re healthy, and to eliminate the possible risks that could lead to damage in the foetus during the pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins are crucial during the first trimester, as these give your body all the nutrients it needs during these vital first few months so that the baby can develop properly and healthily.
Folic acid is the most important nutrient, and you’ll need at least 4mcg of this to stave off any birth defects – folic acid prevents neural defects in the baby. Your GP may prescribe prenatal vitamins as opposed to regular daily vitamins, as these have a higher dose of folic acid for your baby’s health. Dehydration is something to watch out for, and a feature of good pregnancy health which many women aren’t immediately aware of. Dehydration during the first trimester can increase the risk of miscarriage – this is because your body is still adjusting to the new changes and the concept of supporting a new life. Drink plenty of water, fresh fruit juices and vegetables with a high water content, such as cucumber, to keep you and your baby topped up with water. Your midwife or GP can advise how much water is needed to stay healthy.
Drugs, cigarette smoking and drinking alcohol should absolutely be stopped the moment you find out you’re pregnant. Foetal alcohol syndrome, or FAS, can often be diagnosed if the child has been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy – they develop unusual facial features and may also be affected mentally. Drugs such as marijuana and cocaine can increase the risk of miscarriage, and smoking can increase the risk of a low birth weight, asthma later in life, stillbirth or sudden infant death syndrome. The risk of miscarriage is also increased by consuming tea, coffee or aerated drinks, as these usually contain caffeine.
You should also put a stop to any sexual activity for the first three months. During the vital first trimester, the baby is developing and sex can jolt or damage the process. You only need to worry about this for the first trimester – after the second trimester and beyond, you can resume normal intercourse. While you do need to avoid certain foods during this important stage, it’s also important to eat healthily. Avoid certain fish, such as tuna or sea fish, as these have mercury in them which can affect the brain development in the foetus. Cheese, raw eggs or fish, and processed meats are all also off the menu as these may contain bacteria which can harm the baby. In severe cases of illness from these bacteria, it can even lead to miscarriage. Your GP will be able to run through the various foods you need to remove from your diet in order to keep your baby safe, as well as any other health tips to ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby.
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