6 Essential Tips for Prenatal Care

6 Essential Tips for Prenatal Care

Preparing for pregnancy and focusing on prenatal health are the beginning stages of having a baby. This is one of the most important times of your life as you embark on a new journey that will be more than just about you.

So, what are some tips in preparing for your pregnancy and what can you do to enhance your prenatal health?

Get a checkup:

This is a good time to see your gynecologist so you can be examined and tested for any health issues that may affect you in becoming pregnant, or during your pregnancy.

While it is true you will see your healthcare provider many times after you are pregnant, this is a good first step!

Stop smoking and drinking:

Tobacco and alcohol during pregnancy don’t mix. It’s not only unhealthy for you, but the health problems it can impose on your unborn child can be life altering.

These habits make it more difficult to get pregnant and raise your risk of a miscarriage. Your doctor will be happy to go over programs to help you overcome these habits.

Eat healthy:

There is no time like the present to cut out junk food from your diet as you prepare for pregnancy. It is important to consume fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein every day.

If you drink coffee, try cutting back if you drink more than 2 cups a day. Higher levels of caffeine have been linked to difficulty in conceiving and miscarriage.

Lose any extra pounds:

If you have been wanting to shed a few pounds, do so before you get pregnant. Being overweight and obese can put you at risk for gestational diabetes, preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy) and numerous other medical risks for both you and your baby.

Losing weight is not a good idea during pregnancy, so take advantage of this time and get your body where you want it before conceiving.

Evaluate medications you take:

Visit with your doctor and see what prescription medications you are on that might need to be changed, or paused while you’re pregnant.

Be open about which over-the-counter drugs – or even vitamins and herbs – that you are taking. Some medications can harm the baby or possibly be attributed to birth defects. Also, now is the time to start taking a prenatal vitamin or folic acid supplement.

Stay active:

Exercise or maintain some type of physical activity. This will not only be great for weight loss, but it keeps you in great condition for labor and delivery.

The doctors at Pacific Women’s Center are here to help you make that transition into motherhood. They have experience helping women in the Eugene and Springfield area to plan the best prenatal care. Make an appointment today so they can assist you in helping make your upcoming pregnancy a happy and healthy one!