Page 9 - GCMC First Trimester

4. Foods to avoid during pregnancy. During pregnancy you and your baby are both at
an increased risk of foodborne illnesses. Avoid raw fish and shellfish. They may contain a parasite that can cause infant blindness or brain damage. Eat only pasteurized cheeses and fully cooked meats. Bacteria can lead
to premature delivery or miscarriage. It is also important to have good hand hygiene and to make sure food is properly prepared.
5. Exercise. Being active during pregnancy is beneficial for you and your baby’s future health. Few women have activity restrictions during pregnancy, but before starting an exercise program, talk to your doctor about the best activities for your fitness and health level, and how to move safely.
Use common sense and pick low-impact aerobic or strength-building exercises such
as walking, swimming, yoga and hiking. If
you were a runner before becoming pregnant, you can likely continue the sport with some modifications, such as shorter distances and
a slower pace.
6. Benefits of exercise. Good reasons to stay active during your pregnancy:
• Higher energy levels
• Improved endurance to better cope with labor and birth
• Easier recovery after birth and returning to pre-pregnancy weight
• Increased cardiovascular health for mom-to-be
• Better quality of circulation and less swelling
• Improved muscle tone
• Quality of sleep will be better
• Better digestion with less constipation
• Reduced backaches and muscle/joint soreness
• Fewer emotional ups and downs
• Reduced risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia
7. Take folic acid. Take a vitamin every day and make sure it has at least 400 mcg of folic acid. Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps your baby’s brain and spine develop.
8. Visiting the dentist. It is important to continue with routine dental care during pregnancy, and tell your dentist that you are pregnant. For dental work, you can receive Lidocaine injections without epinephrine, but no gas analgesia. Dental X-rays are permitted after 12 weeks with an abdominal shield.