Pregnant Women - How to take care of yourself in Prematurity Period?

Pregnancy is a time when almost all women need more care and attention. During the prematurity period, taking care of the pregnant women is the most important thing. It helps both the mother and the growing baby. It is very essential to stay healthy during pregnancy. There are many ways to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible. 

Let’s check some steps to be taken by pregnant women in prematurity period:

Visit your doctor regularly.

During pregnancy, make sure to visit your nearest doctor regularly. The doctor will perform a thorough check up and ensure that the baby’s development is going well. Checking weight, blood pressure, blood tests etc. help to closely examine the pregnancy. Some important tests include prenatal tests, cervical tests and ultrasound. It is necessary to be more cautious during pregnancy and visiting your doctor regularly can help a lot. 

Nutrition (eat nutritious food)

Pregnant women need enough vitamins and nutrients to keep her and her baby in a healthy condition. Make sure to eat nutritious food. The concerned doctor can advise properly about the appropriate food to be eaten. Eating nutritious foods can help both the mother and the baby’s growth. A well balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads etc.alongwith following these top dieting tips can help a lot. 

Supplements and Vitamins

There are certain essential supplements and vitamins are absolutely necessary during prematurity period. Always make sure that you and your growing baby are getting enough prenatal vitamins and supplements. Intake of calcium needs an increase due to the demand of the growing baby. Certain dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt can overcome the efficiency of essential vitamins and minerals.

Should I take vitamins?

You should take 1,000 mcg (1 mg) of folic acid every day during your pregnancy. Folic acid can help prevent problems with your baby's brain and spinal cord. It is best to start taking folic acid before you get pregnant.

Your doctor might want you to take a prenatal vitamin. If you do take maternity( prenatal supplements ) make sure you're not taking any other vitamin or mineral supplement along with it unless your doctor recommends it.

Is it okay to take medicine?

Check with your doctor before taking any medicine, including pain relievers or other over-the-counter medicines.

Drink plenty of water

During prematurity period, the blood volume increases rapidly. A pregnant woman can face the problem of dehydration and constipation. Drink plenty of water and it can help prevent such problems. Drinking of enough water also helps to cleanse the body and make you feel healthy. 

Exercise

Exercise can help to lose weight naturally, which is a common symptom during pregnancy. Moderate exercise reduces problems like back pain and also improves sleep. Walking remains as the favorite  choice for pregnant women. High intensity exercises and other activities should be totally avoided.

Health issues

During prematurity period, health should be given the top most priority. The health of the pregnant woman and the baby always need proper attention. 

The medicines used to treat certain health issues may prove to be harmful, if taken by the pregnant women. You may have a number of annoying problems that may need some attention. 

These problems include abdominal cramps, frequent urination,  heartburn, backache, constipation etc. 

Despite all the above steps, the most important thing to do is to consult your doctor. He or she can give you a professional review of your health, so that you can take great care during prematurity period. 

Suggested Sources/Citations

✪ Ten Ways to Take Care of Yourself in Pregnancy:

http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/10ways.asp 

✪ Taking Care of You and Your Baby While You're Pregnant 

http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/pregnancy-newborns/your-body/taking-care-of-you-and-your-baby-while-youre-pregnant.html

✪ Staying Healthy During Pregnancy

http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/your_pregnancy/preg_health.html