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Pregnancy is a significant and crucial time for both mother and baby. It's important to prioritize health during this period by following the advice of healthcare professionals, engaging in healthy habits, and staying informed about the various aspects that contribute to a healthy pregnancy.
Healthy Eating and Exercise
A balanced diet plays an essential role in mntning good health throughout pregnancy. Consuming nutritious foods and getting regular exercise as recommed by your healthcare provider can significantly lower risks associated with complications. Staying at a healthy weight and avoiding substances such as lead, radiation, and harmful chemicals are also vital steps for expecting mothers.
Avoid Tobacco Smoke and Alcohol
Tobacco smoke and alcohol pose significant risks to both the mother and baby. These substances may increase the likelihood of sudden infant death syndrome SIDS in young infants under one year old. Excessive consumption of alcohol increases the risk for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, which can result in various problems including birth defects and intellectual disabilities.
Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Regular prenatal care is crucial for expecting women to reduce risks related to their health and that of the fetus. It includes discussions on maternal health, fetal development, and addressing any concerns about pregnancy. One key recommation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is taking dly prenatal vitamins contning 400 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects, a significant group of birth disorders that affect the brn, spine, or spinal cord.
Folic Acid's Importance
Neural tube defects typically develop within the first month of pregnancy when an individual might not be aware they're expecting. Prenatal vitamins are essential as they provide other necessary nutrients to both the mother and her developing fetus.
Stay Informed About Vaccinations
Vaccines play a vital role in protecting you and your growing baby agnst severe diseases. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are suitable for your situation.
Explore More Information
For further insights on pregnancy, you can visit MedlinePlus: Prenatal care, National Institute of Child Health and Development: What is prenatal care and why is it important?, ClinicalTrials.gov: Prenatal care. You may also find it helpful to learn about healthy pregnancy for plus-size women or check out our Health Fast Facts articles.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Find Out More
Stay aware that vaccinations can help protect you and your baby agnst serious illnesses. Discuss with your healthcare provider which ones are appropriate for your situation.
Explore additional resources on MedlinePlus.gov about pregnancy, women's health, common conditions during pregnancy, preconception care, and other related topics to ensure a healthy journey through motherhood.
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Healthy Eating During Pregnancy Folic Acid for Neural Tube Defects Prenatal Vitamins Importance Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol Prenatal Care Benefits Summary Vaccines for Pregnant Women