It’s not uncommon for mothers-to-be to find themselves at a loss about the things they should or shouldn’t be doing for a healthy pregnancy. That’s why Greece Obstetrics and Gynecology places a high priority on educating women about what they should or shouldn’t be doing during pregnancy.

The obstetrics and gynecology experts at this Rochester, NY-based practice have provided specialized maternal care services for over 30 years. Below, they offer a few helpful dos and don’ts to facilitate pregnant women during this transformative phase of their lives.

Top 6 Pregnancy Dos & Don’ts Obstetrics Specialists Recommend

1. Do Take Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins contain the recommended daily dose of folic acid, iron, and calcium that are required for the baby to grow inside your womb. Folic acid prevents fetal spine and brain problems, while iron helps stimulate your baby’s growth and nutrition in utero.

2. Don’t Consume Alcohol

Drinking alcoholic beverages during pregnancy increases the chance of fetal abnormalities, stillbirth, and miscarriages. Since there’s no way to determine how much alcohol is safe to consume, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) emphasizes quitting during pregnancy.

3. Do Visit the Gynecologist

Set up an appointment with a trusted local gynecology practice as soon as you get a positive home pregnancy test. Unless otherwise specified, time your first visit between the eighth and ninth week mark to get a clear ultrasound picture.

4. Don’t Eat Raw Animal Products

Raw meat, dairy, and eggs are strictly off-limits for pregnant women due to their susceptibility to food-borne illnesses. Gynecologists also advise expectant mothers against eating deli meats and unpasteurized cheese to prevent listeria.

5. Do Get Preventative Vaccinations

Barring a medical situation, the physicians at Rochester’s leading women’s health practice recommend pregnant mothers get preventative vaccines. They particularly emphasize the importance of flu shots to avoid severe illnesses.

6. Don’t Skimp on Exercise

Maintaining a healthy weight and fitness regimen should be an essential part of an expectant mother’s routine. With help from the consultants at Greece Obstetrics and Gynecology, you can chalk out a suitable exercise and meditation schedule for optimum maternal health.

Having Greece Obstetrics and Gynecology monitor your pregnancy is a reassurance that your care is in the most capable hands. For further information about their obstetrics services, call (585) 225-6680 or visit the practice’s website.