A healthy pregnancy depends on good nutrition, regular exercise, proper rest, and emotional stability. It also involves avoiding harmful habits and taking necessary precautions to protect both the mother and the baby.
How to Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy
A healthy pregnancy means keeping your body and mind well throughout the entire period. Regular care, timely checkups, and a balanced lifestyle help prevent complications and support the baby’s proper growth.
Iqraa Hospital in Calicut
In Kerala, Iqraa Hospital is renowned as the best hospital for first delivery in Calicut, with its Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology providing complete maternity care. The department provides proper guidance and medical care throughout the antenatal, delivery, and postnatal stages.
The department provides care for high-risk pregnancies and gynecological conditions, including:
Management of high-risk pregnancies such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm labor, hypertension, and pregnancy with cardiac complications.
- Reversal of tubectomy and sterilization procedures.
- Diagnosis and treatment of ectopic pregnancy.
- Minimally invasive hysterectomy.
- Management of polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), fibroids, and endometriosis.
Pregnancy Do’s and Don’ts
Following the right practices can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and protect your baby’s development.
Do’s During Pregnancy
- Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid daily to prevent birth defects.
- Wear seatbelts properly, with the strap below the belly.
- Attend prenatal classes to learn about childbirth and newborn care.
- Discuss all medications with your healthcare provider before use.
- Manage stress through relaxation, light walks, or meditation.
- Get enough sleep, usually between 7 and 9 hours each night.
- Attend regular prenatal visits for checkups and monitoring.
- Get necessary vaccines, such as flu and COVID-19 shots.
- Follow safe food practices to avoid infections.
- Inform your healthcare providers, including your dentist, that you are pregnant.
Don’ts During Pregnancy
- Avoid more than 200 mg of caffeine per day.
- Don’t take painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin unless prescribed.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and drug use.
- Keep away from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and secondhand smoke.
- Avoid raw or undercooked food, unpasteurized milk, and certain fish high in mercury.
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, or hot yoga, as too much heat can affect the baby.
- Avoid lying flat on your back late in pregnancy if it feels uncomfortable.
Eating and Exercise During Pregnancy
A balanced diet is important for both mother and baby. Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed and sugary foods, drink plenty of water, and do not skip meals.
Exercise keeps your body strong and helps reduce stress. Safe activities include walking, swimming, and light yoga. Avoid contact sports or heavy lifting. Always consult your doctor before starting or changing your workout routine.
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, swelling, heavy bleeding, high fever, or reduced baby movements. Early medical attention helps prevent complications and keeps both mother and baby safe.
Conclusion
A healthy pregnancy requires care, awareness, and regular medical checkups. With proper prenatal guidance, maternity support, and postnatal follow-up, mothers can stay healthy and provide a safe environment for their baby’s growth and development.
