Prenatal Care for Pregnant Women

17 December, 2009 No Comment

Prenatal care is an important aspect of pregnancy as it ensures good health for the baby as well as the mother. When a woman is pregnant she needs to take adequate rest, a nutritious diet, exercise, avoid certain drugs and go for regular medical check-ups.

A pregnant woman is responsible for the condition of the baby in her womb and all that goes into her body impacts the growth and development of the fetus.

During pregnancy, the fetus derives nutrition and oxygen from the mother’s bloodstream and excretes the same way. A number of harmful substances can reach the fetus through the umbilical cord and cause damage to it. Thus, prenatal care for pregnant women is essential in order to ensure the birth of a healthy baby.

Important aspects of prenatal care for pregnant women:
Prenatal check-ups:

During her initial visits to the obstetrician, the woman needs to give a detailed account of her and her family’s medical history. All conditions that need close attention are made note of. These include hereditary factors, diseases, any history of miscarriage etc.

During pregnancy, a woman might develop gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, heartburn, headaches etc. A regular physical check-up ensures that her condition and that of her baby is being monitored from time to time. The doctor also advices her on diet, rest and exercise. The size and position of the fetus are also tracked.

Blood tests:

Blood samples are taken to detect possible anemia or Rh incompatibilities. They are also helpful in detecting the presence of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or other infections.

Prenatal nutrition:

It is important for a woman to take a nutritious diet throughout pregnancy to nourish herself as well as the fetus. The baby not only meets all its nutritional needs through the mother but also competes with her for those nutrients that are not available in adequate amounts for both of them.

For instance, if a mother is not taking an adequate amount of iron or calcium, the fetus might end up receiving most of it and the mother may become deficient in the two minerals.

High intake of folic acids is recommended in the initial period of pregnancy to decrease the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. This makes it essential for all women of childbearing age to consume 400 mcg of folic acid every day. The later stages of pregnancy call for an in increase in calories and most nutrients.

Exercise:

If you are not in the habit of exercising regularly, pregnancy might just be the right time to begin. Mild to moderate forms of exercise are recommended during pregnancy. Walking and certain stretching exercises of yoga are good options. Avoid all forms of exercise that can drain you out, make you lose your balance or pose even the slightest threat to the fetus.

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