Making positive lifestyle choices while you're pregnant will keep you and your baby safe. Most future moms are aware that it's best to stay away from alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs, but there are other less obvious steps you can take to promote your child's well-being. Review the following pregnancy care tips as you embark on this exciting journey.

How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy

1. Stay Active

Although pregnancy can leave you feeling tired, staying active can diminish the strain on your body. It can prevent gestational diabetes and reduce uncomfortable side effects, like bloating, constipation, and back pain.

Low-impact exercises like prenatal yoga are ideal because there’s minimal risk of injury. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing to support your body.

2. Eat a Pregnancy-Friendly Diet

A well-balanced diet is even more important when you're eating for two. Adhere to basic dietary recommendations that highlight the importance of whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Your doctor may also recommend prenatal vitamins to help you get extra nutrients, including folic acid, calcium, and iron.

3. Practice Good Hygiene

Regular hand washing and frequent showers are essential for proper pregnancy care. Good hygiene reduces the risk of picking up potentially dangerous ailments, like Group B streptococcus. If a mother contracts this illness, the infant has an increased risk of developing it as well.

4. Establish a Support Network

Pregnancy is a wonderful experience, but it can also be challenging. Taking care of your mental health will help you handle this life-changing period. 

Joining parenting groups or Lamaze classes helps you connect with other women who know exactly what you’re going through. Support networks also alleviate prenatal stress, which is associated with risks like an increased likelihood of miscarriage or preterm birth.

Support your health during pregnancy with the comprehensive gynecological and obstetrical services of Thameside ObGyn Centre in Groton, CT. The compassionate team gives each patient the personalized and attentive care they deserve. They offer everything from gynecological surgery to high-risk pregnancy advice. Visit their website to review their full range of services. To schedule an appointment, call the women’s health center at (860) 445-5107.