This archive report was first published on 9 October 2019.
Getting pregnant and carrying a baby to full term is a significant milestone for many women. However, it's not always as easy as it seems. To ensure a healthy pregnancy, it's essential to follow certain practices.
According to medical professionals, the healthiest pregnancy outcomes result from conceiving between the ages of 18 and 35. Women who conceive above 35 or below 18 are more likely to develop pregnancy complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth.
Another critical aspect of reproductive health is family planning. Spacing pregnancies is essential to increase the survival chances of newborn babies. Inadequate pregnancy spacing can lead to risks such as low birth weight, preterm births, and stillbirth cases.
Practicing kegel exercises can also help strengthen the pelvic muscles, supporting the bowels, bladder, and uterus. This can prevent problems with incontinence later after delivery and increase the chances of having an easier delivery.
It's also essential to eliminate toxins, such as illicit drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, which can inflict birth defects, miscarriages, and other reproductive health problems. Cigarette smoking, in particular, has been linked to complications such as preterm babies due to decreased oxygen flow to the fetus.
Monitoring weight gain during pregnancy is also crucial. Eating for two is not a license to overeat, as it may be challenging to lose weight later. Inadequate weight gain can expose the baby to the risk of underweight birth and other major developmental problems.
Finally, drinking plenty of water is essential to support blood function in supplying oxygen and relieving waste and carbon dioxide from the baby through the placenta. This can also prevent fatigue, headaches, UTI, hemorrhoids, and other pregnancy symptom discomforts.
By following these essential practices, expectant mothers can significantly reduce the risks associated with pregnancy and ensure a healthy outcome for both themselves and their baby.
