If you’ve finally missed your period after months of trying to get pregnant, expect it to be the happiest moment. But pregnancy is also a responsibility to stay safe and protect your baby throughout the gestation period. Although the experience is a breeze for most women, a few may not be lucky enough to make it safely through the first few months. In fact, miscarriage is a common risk factor in the first trimester, with about 10-20% of pregnancies not going beyond it.
Likewise, you may encounter issues such as nausea, gestational diabetes, hypertension, and poor fetal growth. Fortunately, timely intervention can save most would-be moms from dire complications. Besides keeping an eye on potential risks, adhering to some rules and precautions during early pregnancy can help you deliver a healthy baby down the line. Here are some tried-and-tested precautions every woman should take during the early stages of pregnancy.
Schedule a prenatal visit
Pregnancy is a giant leap for a woman because it often entails several physical changes and emotional transitions. Even the most uncomplicated cases may have underlying problems, such as poor nutrition, genetic risks, and weakness. Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as you get a positive test is a good idea. They will perform the necessary tests to assess your condition, detect risk factors, and guide you through the early stages. Moreover, you can ask questions and clear your doubts with a specialist, which definitely makes you more comfortable.
Take prenatal vitamins
Your doctor will recommend some prenatal vitamins during your first visit after getting pregnant. While you may load up on a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, it may not be enough to fulfill the needs of a growing fetus. A multivitamin regimen is essential to address the dietary gaps. Folic acid is specifically important as it can support your baby’s healthy development and help prevent severe birth defects such as spina bifida.
Skip OTC medication
Besides your multivitamins, your doctors may prescribe medicines for specific conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and thyroid disorders. Skip anything beyond the prescriptions because OTC medicines can harm the fetus. A harmless-looking Tylenol pill is among the known culprits, as it elevates the risk of autism and ADHD in unborn babies. You will probably find someone filing a Tylenol autism claim if you ask around because such cases are common. The next time you experience pain during early pregnancy, ditch the pill and look for natural alternatives. You must stay off them throughout the pregnancy.
Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes are the worst things you can do for your baby. Likewise, substance abuse is risky for pregnant women. These toxins can harm fetal health and increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth. Commit to steering clear of them from day one, and avoid them later as you breastfeed your baby. Consider it a chance to quit for good because it is the best gift for your little one.
Get enough sleep
Fatigue is common during early pregnancy because your body needs time to adjust to the rigors of carrying a baby. Getting enough rest and sleep is an excellent precautionary measure for all women during early pregnancy. You may need total rest if you have complications such as spotting and pain. Follow your doctor’s orders, and stay off work at home and office in this situation. Even if you are completely healthy, you must avoid heavy lifting and overexerting. Ask for help and take a break when your body needs it. You must get at least eight hours of sleep to keep pace with the demand of a growing fetus.
Manage stress
Surprisingly, high levels of stress can harm your baby in several ways. It can elevate the risk of hypertension, interfere with fetal growth, and increase the risk of premature birth and miscarriage. But embracing a few lifestyle changes during early pregnancy can keep it at bay. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, guided meditation, and prenatal yoga. You can also start a simple exercise routine with low-impact workouts, but remember to do it under expert supervision. Pick activities you like and have a good time with your partner and friends.
Your approach during early pregnancy defines the rest of your journey. Adopting a few simple precautions can ensure your well-being and the baby’s development. Follow these actionable ones to start on the right foot and stay healthy throughout all three trimesters of your pregnancy.
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