Women who are expecting know that they must make certain lifestyle changes during pregnancy to promote the health of their baby. While there are obvious behaviors to avoid such as consuming alcohol or smoking, some recommendations are surprising to mothers-to-be. As a leading OB-GYN in Foley, AL, South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC wants to ensure their patients have all of the information they need for a successful pregnancy. Here, they share some common things to do and avoid while expecting.

Do:

Take your prenatal vitamins.

Daily prenatal vitamins can help accommodate for any nutritional gaps in a pregnant woman’s diet. Folic acid, iodine, and iron are especially important, as these nutrients play a critical role in fetal development.

Exercise wisely.

Staying active through pregnancy is a great way to ensure healthy weight gain as a baby develops, but it’s important to ensure your baby is receiving enough oxygen while you exercise. Aim for low impact-exercises performed at a conversational pace, such as walking or cycling, for 30 minutes, five days a week.   

Get plenty of sleep.

Pregnancy sends the body through significant changes, and to maintain optimal health for yourself and your baby, you should get plenty of rest. Schedule naps if you feel especially tired, and rest for seven to nine hours each night.

Don’t:

Eat undercooked meat.

While consuming a rare steak or burger always carries risks, it is especially hazardous for mothers-to-be. Undercooked meat has a higher risk of carrying serious foodborne illnesses which could even lead to congenital disabilities.

Sit in a hot tub or sauna.

Elevating your body temperature can be dangerous for pregnant women and their babies. Some research even suggests there is a strong link between miscarriage and abnormally elevated body temperature, so steer clear of hot tubs, whirlpools, and saunas while expecting.

Overdo it with caffeine.

Just as caffeine can give adults a jolt, it can also make its way into the placenta and spike the fetus’s heart rate. Many medical professionals advise women to limit intake to a cup or two of coffee per day, but speak to your OB-GYN to receive precise recommendations based on your needs.

The caring team from South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC knows women may have many questions during pregnancy, which is why their experts are there to offer support through every step. Their specialists offer personalized care for women at every stage of life with services such as general gynecology and family planning. Learn more by visiting their website, or call (251) 943-2141 to schedule an appointment.